Ariana Grande has taken the music world by storm, captivating millions with her powerful vocals and irresistible charisma. Since her debut, she has consistently pushed the boundaries of pop music, blending genres and crafting hits that resonate with fans across the globe. From heartfelt ballads to infectious dance tracks, her discography is a testament to her versatility as an artist. In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Ariana Grande songs of all time, celebrating the anthems that have defined her career and solidified her status as a pop icon.
Whether you’re a die-hard Arianator or new to her enchanting sound, these tracks showcase her evolution as an artist and her ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. Each song tells a story, reflecting themes of love, empowerment, and resilience that resonate deeply with fans. Join us as we explore the melodies that have topped charts, broken records, and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Get ready to relive the magic of Ariana Grande’s most beloved songs—each note a reminder of why she remains one of the most influential artists of our time!
1. “The Way” (feat. Mac Miller) – 2013
Released in 2013, “The Way” became the breakout moment that introduced Ariana Grande to a global audience, hinting at the powerhouse artist she was about to become. Featuring rapper Mac Miller, the song is a lush blend of pop and R&B, built on an irresistible beat that instantly pulls you in. From the opening notes, there’s a sweetness and charm to the track—it’s all about the dizzy, exciting rush of young love, the kind that makes your heart race and your world feel brighter. Ariana’s voice shines, showing off both her sultry lower register and her soaring high notes, which bring a sense of magic to the chorus. The chemistry between her and Mac Miller is undeniable, their voices intertwining effortlessly to tell a story of playful romance and electric connection. The song’s lyrics, full of longing glances and breathless moments, create a vivid picture of infatuation that anyone can relate to. “The Way” didn’t just become a hit; it marked the start of Ariana’s ascent into pop stardom, laying the foundation for the bold and versatile artist she would become. Even today, it remains one of her most nostalgic and beloved tracks.
2. “Problem” (feat. Iggy Azalea) – 2014
In 2014, Ariana Grande unleashed “Problem,” and the music world couldn’t stop dancing. Teaming up with Iggy Azalea, Ariana created an anthem that perfectly captured the tension between desire and letting go. The song opens with that unforgettable saxophone riff—a hook so catchy it became instantly recognizable—and from there, it only gets better. The lyrics speak to the push-and-pull of a toxic relationship: knowing someone isn’t good for you but still feeling drawn to them. Ariana delivers every line with power and precision, her voice a mix of sass, strength, and vulnerability. Then, Iggy Azalea’s sharp, confident rap verse cuts through the melody, adding an edge that balances Ariana’s soaring vocals. The production is slick and danceable, giving the song a high-energy punch that made it a radio and chart-topping staple. “Problem” wasn’t just a single—it was a pop culture moment, showing Ariana could command the stage and push her sound into bold new territory. It’s an anthem of empowerment and inner conflict, proving that sometimes the catchiest songs come from the most complicated emotions.
3. “Bang Bang” (with Jessie J and Nicki Minaj) – 2014
“Bang Bang,” released in 2014, is pure pop fireworks—a collaboration between Ariana Grande, Jessie J, and Nicki Minaj that feels larger than life. From the first beat, the track is an explosion of energy, with Jessie J kicking things off with powerhouse vocals, Ariana adding her signature sweetness and strength, and Nicki Minaj delivering one of her most iconic rap verses. The song’s lyrics are cheeky and fun, celebrating confidence, boldness, and unapologetic femininity. It’s the kind of track that instantly turns up the energy in any room, its infectious chorus impossible not to sing along to. Ariana’s vocals soar on her verses, her tone blending effortlessly with Jessie J’s powerful belts, creating harmonies that feel electric. Meanwhile, Nicki’s verse adds fire and sass, grounding the track in attitude. “Bang Bang” didn’t just dominate charts—it became a cultural anthem, blasting from every party and event, symbolizing a moment of pure pop unity. It’s bold, it’s fun, and it’s proof that when three powerhouse artists come together, the result can be nothing short of iconic.
4. “One Last Time” – 2014
Released in 2014, “One Last Time” is one of Ariana Grande’s most emotional and enduring songs—a bittersweet ballad wrapped in a danceable beat. The track captures the ache of wanting another chance at love, even when you know the relationship is slipping away. Ariana’s vocals are breathtaking here; she moves between vulnerable whispers and powerful belts, pulling listeners deep into the emotion of the lyrics. The production blends electronic and pop elements, creating a sound that feels both intimate and expansive, perfect for singing along while also hitting you right in the heart. “One Last Time” became even more significant after the Manchester tragedy in 2017, when Ariana performed it as a tribute, turning it into a song of healing and resilience for fans around the world. Beyond that, it stands on its own as a stunning example of her artistry, combining emotional storytelling with her incredible vocal range. Whether you hear it as a song about love, loss, or hope, “One Last Time” has a way of sticking with you long after it ends.
5. “Dangerous Woman” – 2016
When Ariana Grande released “Dangerous Woman” in 2016, it signaled a new chapter in her career—one where she fully embraced her power, her artistry, and her sensuality. The title track of her third album, it’s sultry and commanding, with a slow-burn groove that feels both intimate and fierce. Ariana’s vocals are stunning here—controlled, rich, and effortlessly moving between smoky tones and powerful high notes. The lyrics celebrate confidence and allure, turning vulnerability into strength and framing femininity as something bold and unapologetic. The production blends pop and R&B elements with a touch of rock edge, giving the song a timeless feel while still sounding fresh. “Dangerous Woman” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement, one that marked Ariana’s evolution from pop ingénue to an artist in complete control of her sound and image. It became an anthem for anyone ready to own their confidence and embrace their independence, and it remains one of her most defining tracks, proof of her ability to combine vulnerability, power, and artistry in one unforgettable package.
6. “Into You” – 2016
“Into You,” released in 2016, is one of Ariana Grande’s most electrifying songs—a pulsing, late-night anthem that perfectly captures the rush of desire. From the very first beat, the track builds an intoxicating atmosphere with shimmering synths and a relentless, throbbing rhythm that begs to be danced to. The lyrics are playful and daring, with Ariana urging someone to take things further, to stop hesitating and give in to the moment. Her vocals are breathy and seductive on the verses, then explode into soaring belts on the chorus, creating an irresistible sense of tension and release. “Into You” isn’t just a song—it’s an experience, one that turns every listen into a cinematic scene of neon lights, crowded dance floors, and sparks flying between two people. The track became an instant favorite for fans and critics alike, praised for its sleek production and Ariana’s flawless delivery. Years later, it’s still one of her most iconic songs, a perfect example of how she can take a simple feeling—in this case, pure infatuation—and turn it into a moment that feels both universal and unforgettable.
7. “No Tears Left to Cry” – 2018
In 2018, Ariana Grande returned with “No Tears Left to Cry,” a song that felt like a deep breath of healing after pain. It’s a track that blends vulnerability with optimism, weaving pop and dance elements into a sound that’s uplifting and hopeful. The lyrics are a gentle invitation to step out of sadness and back into joy, to find light even after darkness. Ariana’s vocals are both soothing and soaring, effortlessly gliding from soft, intimate moments to bright, powerful notes. There’s a dreamlike quality to the production—the beat shifts, melodies float in and out—mirroring the emotional complexity of finding happiness again. “No Tears Left to Cry” wasn’t just another single; it was a statement of resilience, coming after a time of hardship and signaling that Ariana was ready to embrace hope again. Fans connected instantly, and the song became an anthem of recovery and renewal. With its shimmering energy and heartfelt message, “No Tears Left to Cry” continues to inspire listeners, proving how powerful pop music can be when it speaks to both the heart and the soul.
8. “Thank U, Next” – 2018
“Thank U, Next,” released in 2018, became an instant cultural phenomenon—not just a song, but a movement. In it, Ariana Grande reflects on her past relationships with a mix of gratitude, humor, and growth. Instead of bitterness, she offers thanks—to her exes for the lessons they taught her and the person she’s become. The lyrics are clever and relatable, turning breakups into a story of empowerment and self-love. The chorus, simple yet powerful, became an anthem for moving forward with grace and positivity. Musically, the track is sleek and understated, allowing Ariana’s voice and the message to shine. But “Thank U, Next” didn’t just live on the radio—it exploded online, with the music video paying homage to iconic films like Mean Girls and Legally Blonde, cementing its place in pop culture history. Beyond the memes and quotes, though, the song resonated because it felt real—it showed Ariana not just as a superstar, but as a person choosing to heal. “Thank U, Next” remains one of her defining moments, a reminder that closure can come with kindness, and that growth is the ultimate form of strength.
9. “7 Rings” – 2019
With “7 Rings,” Ariana Grande flipped the script—delivering a song that was both playful and powerful, dripping with confidence and luxury. Released in 2019, it’s a trap-pop anthem built on a clever interpolation of “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music, reimagined into something entirely new. The song’s lyrics tell the story of Ariana and her closest friends, who after a rough patch, bought matching rings as a symbol of joy, friendship, and taking back control of their narrative. Ariana’s delivery is cool and confident, almost conversational, as she lists the things she wants and simply gets—turning indulgence into empowerment. The production is sleek and modern, with heavy bass and hypnotic beats that make it impossible not to nod along. More than just a celebration of wealth, “7 Rings” is about female friendship, independence, and reclaiming happiness on your own terms. It became a smash hit, its pink-hued visuals and bold message instantly iconic. To this day, “7 Rings” remains one of Ariana’s most unapologetic and empowering songs, proving that sometimes self-celebration is exactly what the world needs.
10. “Positions” – 2020
Released in 2020, “Positions” marked yet another evolution for Ariana Grande, blending her signature pop sensibility with sultry R&B vibes. The song is smooth and intimate, driven by gentle guitar lines and a light, breezy beat that feels effortlessly elegant. Lyrically, Ariana explores the idea of love that inspires flexibility and devotion—singing about shifting roles, making sacrifices, and doing whatever it takes for someone you care deeply about. Her vocals are soft and warm on the verses, then glide into a catchy, fluttering chorus that lingers in your head long after the song ends. “Positions” showcases a more mature side of Ariana—not just vocally, but thematically—as she balances vulnerability with quiet confidence. The music video, showing her as President, added another layer of meaning, suggesting she can lead, love, and do it all at once. It’s both playful and empowering, sensual and sweet. “Positions” may feel lighter than some of her biggest anthems, but that’s its charm—it’s a song about love that feels lived-in and real, a testament to Ariana’s ability to evolve while staying true to her emotional core.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
