The early 2000s was a golden age for pop music, with a string of iconic hits that continue to be enjoyed today. From the soaring melodies of See You Again to the infectious dance beats of Closer and the anthemic Something Just Like This, these songs defined a generation and continue to resonate with listeners of all ages. Get ready to revisit some of the most beloved pop anthems of the 2000s as we dive into the best songs of the decade.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. See You Again |
Wiz Khalifa Charlie Puth | Super Hits | 2015 | 6B+ |
| 2. Closer |
The Chainsmokers Halsey | Changes | 2016 | 3B+ |
| 3. Something Just Like This |
Coldplay The Chainsmokers | Memories...Do Not Open | 2017 | 2B+ |
| 4. Ride | Twenty One Pilots | Blurryface | 2015 | 2B+ |
| 5. Can't Feel My Face | The Weeknd | Beauty Behind The Madness | 2015 | 1B+ |
| 6. Peaches |
Justin Bieber Daniel Caesar Giveon | Justice | 2021 | 753M+ |
| 7. Heat Waves | Glass Animals | Dreamland | 2020 | 726M+ |
1. See You Again (Wiz Khalifa ft Charlie Puth - 2015)
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Song information
| ArtistWiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth | Release07-04-2015 |
| Time03:58 | View6B+ |
| Likes 43M+ | Suitablerap enthusiasts |
| AlbumSuper Hits | |
- Pop
- Emotional Ballad
- R&B
- Hip-Hop
- Rap
- Chill
- Hip-Hop Soul
- Sad R&B
- Wiz Khalifa
- Charlie Puth
"See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth is a poignant and evocative tribute to the late Paul Walker. The song's heartfelt lyrics, capturing the pain of loss and the hope of reunion, resonate deeply with listeners. Its haunting melody and soulful arrangement create a melancholic atmosphere that invites both contemplation and catharsis.
As the song plays, fans are transported to a realm of remembrance and reflection. They envision Paul Walker smiling down from above, touched by the outpouring of love and admiration for his life and legacy. "See You Again" has become a timeless anthem for grieving and celebration, a testament to the enduring power of music to heal and unite. Its message of hope and the promise of an eternal bond have comforted countless hearts, making it one of the most beloved and enduring songs of our time.
2. Closer (2016)
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Song information
| ArtistThe Chainsmokers, Halsey | Release29-07-2016 |
| Time04:22 | View3B+ |
| Likes 14M+ | SuitablePop music lovers |
| AlbumChanges | |
- Pop
- Dance-pop
- Dance
- Electronic dance
- Electronic
- Electropop
- Pop Dance
- Electro-house
- EDM
- The Chainsmokers
- Future Bass
- Halsey
"Closer" by The Chainsmokers and Halsey is a song that evokes a complex tapestry of emotions. Its raw and evocative lyrics resonate deeply with listeners, capturing the bittersweet pain of a fading relationship. The song's haunting melody and atmospheric production create a palpable sense of longing and vulnerability, leaving a lasting impression on the listener's heart.
The song's emotional impact is further amplified by its relatable lyrics. The repeated refrain of "Baby, pull me closer..." conveys a desperate plea for connection, while the verses delve into the intricate complexities of a love that is both passionate and painful. The song's universal appeal lies in its ability to encapsulate the bittersweet emotions that accompany the end of a significant relationship, making it a timeless anthem for those seeking solace and healing.
3. Something Just Like This (Coldplay ft The Chainsmokers - 2017)
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Song information
| ArtistColdplay, The Chainsmokers | Release22-02-2017 |
| Time04:08 | View2B+ |
| Likes 11M+ | SuitablePop Enthusiasts |
| AlbumMemories...Do Not Open | |
- Pop
- Dance-pop
- Dance
- Pop rock
- Electronic
- Collaboration
- Coldplay
- Electropop
- Uplifting
- Chill Vibes
- The Chainsmokers
- Uplifiting
- Coldplay Collab
- Dance-Pop Faves
- EDM Anthems
- Pop Crossovers
"Something Just Like This" by Coldplay and The Chainsmokers is a song that evokes a bittersweet nostalgia, capturing the essence of fleeting moments and the longing for companionship. Its emotional impact is palpable, resonating with listeners who find solace in its melody, reminiscent of cherished memories and the bittersweet passage of time.
The song's musical arrangement is a captivating blend of Coldplay's signature anthemic sound and The Chainsmokers' electronic beats. The lyrics, with their yearning for connection and desire for moments that transcend the ordinary, create a universal appeal that resonates with listeners of all ages. Nostalgic reflections interweave with hopeful anticipation, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the song ends.
4. Ride (Blurryface - 2015)
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Song information
| ArtistTwenty One Pilots | Release13-05-2015 |
| Time03:46 | View2B+ |
| Likes 11M+ | SuitableYoung Adults |
| AlbumBlurryface | |
- Indie Pop
- Alternative rock
- Emotional Rock
- Piano Ballad
- Synth Pop
- Indie
- Alt Rock
- Pop Punk
- Emotional
- Introspective
- Electronic rock
- Uplifting
- Sad Pop
- Twenty One Pilots
Emerging in 2015, the captivating tune "Ride" by Twenty One Pilots has left an enduring legacy in the music world. Its poignant lyrics and infectious melodies have resonated deeply with listeners, earning the band numerous accolades including a Grammy Award.
The song's emotional core resonates with those who have experienced personal struggles. Its message of hope and resilience provides solace to troubled hearts. The evocative lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, creating a timeless quality that transcends generations.
5. Can't Feel My Face
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Song information
| ArtistThe Weeknd | Release29-07-2015 |
| Time03:39 | View1B+ |
| Likes 7M+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| AlbumBeauty Behind The Madness | |
- Pop
- Love song
- Pop Music
- Dance
- Dance Music
- Electronic
- The Weeknd
- Electropop
- R&B music
"Can't Feel My Face" masterfully combines soulful melodies and electronic beats, creating an evocative symphony that resonates deeply. The melancholic lyrics, reminiscent of Michael Jackson's poignant style, explore heartbreak and vulnerability, while the pulsating rhythms infuse the song with an undeniable energy.
The song has captivated listeners with its raw honesty and infectious grooves. One enthralled listener aptly described it as "a perfect blend of sadness and danceability." "Can't Feel My Face" has earned its place among the most beloved contemporary anthems, a testament to its ability to stir emotions and inspire a cathartic release.
6. Peaches (Justin Bieber ft Daniel Caesar ft Giveon - 2021)
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Song information
| ArtistJustin Bieber, Daniel Caesar, Giveon | Release19-03-2021 |
| Time03:18 | View753M+ |
| Likes 8M+ | SuitableYouthful |
| AlbumJustice | |
- Pop
- Love song
- Pop Music
- R&B
- Smooth
- Justin Bieber
- Daniel Caesar
- Giveon
Like a warm embrace on a chilly night, "Peaches" by Justin Bieber, Daniel Caesar, and Giveon paints a vivid tapestry of emotions that resonates deep within the soul. Its soothing melody, reminiscent of a gentle summer breeze, intertwines with heartfelt lyrics that seem to effortlessly capture the bittersweet essence of nostalgia. The song's ability to evoke both joy and a tinge of melancholy has left an indelible mark on listeners, transporting them back to cherished moments they hold dear.
With each note, "Peaches" unveils a profound understanding of the human experience. Its raw honesty and vulnerability have struck a chord with listeners, fostering a sense of connection and shared emotions. Whether it's the poignant realization of time's fleeting nature or the bittersweet longing for moments that can never be relived, the song's introspective lyrics resonate deeply, leaving an unforgettable imprint on the hearts of those who listen.
7. Heat Waves (Dreamland - 2020)
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Song information
| ArtistGlass Animals | Release29-06-2020 |
| Time03:56 | View725M+ |
| Likes 9M+ | SuitableChill seekers |
| AlbumDreamland | |
- Synthpop
- Indie Rock
- Dreamy Sounds
- Indie Dance
- Chill Pop
- Glass Animals
- Dreampop
"Heat Waves" by Glass Animals has become an anthem of longing and nostalgia, captivating listeners with its emotionally charged lyrics and infectious beat. The song's opening line, "Do you want to come over and stay for a while?" instantly sets the tone for a bittersweet tale of unrequited love. The chorus's soaring melody, backed by the driving rhythm, creates a sense of yearning that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the pain of heartbreak.
The song's appeal transcends musical genres, uniting listeners from diverse backgrounds. "Heat Waves" has found a home in both the FIFA video game community and among fans of the Netflix series "Never Have I Ever," who have embraced it as a soundtrack to their own emotional journeys. Whether it evokes memories of missed opportunities or provides solace during times of loneliness, "Heat Waves" has become a universal anthem for anyone who has ever felt the bittersweet sting of love.
8. Toxic (Britney Spears)
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Song information
| ArtistBritney Spears | Release25-10-2009 |
| Time03:32 | View675M+ |
| Likes 4M+ | SuitablePop Enthusiasts |
| AlbumIn The Zone | |
- Pop
- Pop anthem
- Dance-pop
- Female empowerment
- Pop ballad
- Bubblegum pop
- Teen Pop
- Electropop
- Britney Spears
- Club hit
- Pop Female
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "Toxic" by Britney Spears is exactly that kind of song. Its emotional impact is undeniable, with listeners describing it as a "heartbreak anthem" and a song that "perfectly captures the feeling of being in a toxic relationship."
Musically, "Toxic" is a masterpiece. Its infectious beat and haunting melody have made it a global hit, and its overall appeal is undeniable. Whether you're a fan of pop music or not, there's no denying the power of this song.
9. Fix You (X&Y - 2011)
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Song information
| ArtistColdplay | Release30-05-2011 |
| Time04:54 | View644M+ |
| Likes 3M+ | SuitableUnrequited Lovers |
| AlbumX&Y | |
- Emotional Healing
- Coldplay
- Inspiring Anthem
- Emotional Support
- Soulful Reflection
- Sympathetic Comfort
- Reassurance in Adversity
- Intimate Atmosphere
- Comforting Ballad
- Hopeful Tone
- Comforting Embrace
Coldplay's poignant ballad "Fix You" has struck a deep chord with listeners since its release, resonating with those experiencing loss or heartache. Its heartfelt lyrics, penned by frontman Chris Martin for his then-wife after her father's passing, capture the raw emotions of grief and longing. The song's ethereal melody, featuring delicate piano notes and Martin's soaring vocals, creates a sense of both desolation and hope.
Listeners have described the song as a cathartic experience, offering solace and comfort in their darkest moments. Its message of healing and renewal inspires resilience and the belief that even in the face of adversity, emotional wounds can mend. The song's enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal, connecting with hearts across generations and cultures.
10. Cold Heart - 2021
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Song information
| ArtistElton John, Dua Lipa, PNAU | Release13-08-2021 |
| Time04:15 | View557M+ |
| Likes 3M+ | SuitableElectronic music lovers |
- Nostalgic Pop
- Heartfelt Melody
- Elton John
- Dua Lipa
- PNAU
- Dance Anthem
- Strong Vocals
- Cold dance music
- Electronic fusion
Whenever I listen to 'Cold Heart' by Elton John, Dua Lipa, and PNAU, I can't help but appreciate the musical artistry that has gone into creating this masterpiece. It's a song that takes me on a journey of nostalgia, with its clever mashup of Elton John's classic hits like 'Sacrifice' and 'Rocketman.' The seamless blend of Dua Lipa's vocals with the iconic piano melodies is truly captivating.
The song evokes a sense of pure joy and relaxation within me. Every time I hear it, I feel like I'm enveloped in a warm embrace, its soothing rhythm and uplifting lyrics bringing me a sense of peace and tranquility. It's no wonder that 'Cold Heart' has become a global hit, resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
11. Feel It Still (Portugal. The Man)
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Song information
| ArtistPortugal. The Man | Release06-03-2017 |
| Time02:51 | View377M+ |
| Likes 3M+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| AlbumWoodstock | |
- Dance-pop
- Indie Pop
- Dance
- Alternative
- Alternative rock
- Indie
- Portugal. The Man
"Feel It Still" by Portugal. The Man evokes nostalgia through soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. The simple melody and acoustic guitar strumming create a warm and intimate atmosphere.
The song captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss with its message of hope and resilience. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to resonate with the human experience of heartbreak and the strength to move forward.
12. I Ain't Worried (OneRepublic - 2022)
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Song information
| ArtistOneRepublic | Release13-05-2022 |
| Time02:35 | View313M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableCheerful People |
| AlbumHunting High and Low | |
- Pop rock
- Positive Vibes
- Summer vibes
- OneRepublic
- Inspirational
- Feel-Good Anthem
- Upbeat Anthem
- Upbeat Pop
- Summer Anthem
- Good Vibes
- Positive Energy
- Uplifting Anthems
- Upbeat Indie Pop
"I Ain't Worried" by OneRepublic paints a vivid sonic tapestry of summer's carefree spirit. Its sun-drenched lyrics evoke the warmth of beaches and the nostalgia of summer nights. The infectious whistling melody weaves an irresistible soundtrack for cherished moments.
Whether accompanying epic films or marking personal triumphs, this anthem perfectly captures the exhilarating essence of the season. Its uplifting energy leaves listeners basking in a lingering sense of joy and freedom, creating an enduring reminder of summer's transformative power.
13. Daylight
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Song information
| ArtistDavid Kushner | Release14-04-2023 |
| Time03:50 | View294M+ |
| Likes 4M+ | SuitableIntrospective Listeners |
| AlbumThe Beginning | |
- Sad Love
- Piano Ballad
- Upbeat Dance
- Heartbreak Ballad
- Emotional Release
- Acoustic Folk
- Healing Journey
- Feel-Good Music
- Introspective Lyricism
- David Kushner
- Euphoric Pop
- Hopeful Reflection
If you haven't taken the time to listen to 'Daylight' by David Kushner, it's an auditory experience you won't want to miss. This song is an emotional rollercoaster that will have you feeling all the feels. The chorus is particularly powerful, with its raw and honest lyrics that perfectly capture the turmoil of a soul yearning for redemption.
The musical arrangement of 'Daylight' is equally impactful, with its haunting melody and driving beat that perfectly complement the lyrics. The song's overall appeal lies in its ability to resonate with listeners on a deep level. Whether you're struggling with addiction, guilt, or simply the complexities of life, 'Daylight' offers a glimmer of hope and a reminder that you're not alone.
14. I'm Good
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Song information
| ArtistDavid Guetta, Bebe Rexha | Release20-09-2022 |
| Time02:58 | View293M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableParty Goers |
| AlbumThe Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess | |
- Pop Music
- Pop anthem
- Dance-pop
- House
- Electronic Music
- Upbeat
- Electronic
- Party
- House Music
- Club Banger
- Electropop
- Uplifting
- David Guetta
- Bebe Rexha
- EDM
- Motivation
- Dance Anthems
- Hype
- Dance floor banger
- Club hit
- EDM Festival
"I'm Good" by David Guetta and Bebe Rexha is more than just a song; it's a pulsating dance anthem that strikes a nostalgic chord with listeners. Its infectious beat and uplifting lyrics transport listeners back to a simpler time, evoking a sense of carefree joy and innocence.
The song's emotional impact is amplified by Rexha's powerful vocals, which convey a sense of liberation and empowerment. The musical arrangement is equally captivating, blending elements of pop, dance, and electronic music to create a truly unforgettable experience.
15. Lose Control
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Song information
| ArtistTeddy Swims | Release23-06-2023 |
| Time04:01 | View149M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitablePeople going through heartbreak |
| AlbumI've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1) | |
- Emotional Ballad
- Pop ballad
- Heartbreak
- Acoustic
- R&B
- Soulful Vocals
- Heartbreak Ballad
- Soulful
- Emotional Release
- Emotional
- Piano-Driven
- Acoustic Soul
- Chill
- Soulful Expression
- Relaxing
- Heartbreak Blues
- Raw
- Relatable
- Teddy Swims
- Vulnerable Expression
- Raw Passion
- vulnerable
- Heartbreak Healing
Released in 2023 and co-written by Teddy Swims himself, "Lose Control" has quickly become a fan favorite, winning the hearts of listeners from all walks of life. Its soulful vocals and poignant lyrics have been particularly meaningful for those navigating the challenges of addiction and loss.
The song's impact is evident in the comments left by listeners. One listener shared their pride in her husband's 40 days of sobriety, finding solace in the song's message of hope and healing. Another, a widow for four years, expressed how deeply the song resonated with her, reminding her of her late husband and the emotions she had felt during their time together.
16. Houdini (Dua Lipa)
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Song information
| ArtistDua Lipa | Release09-11-2023 |
| Time03:09 | View148M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitablePop music fans |
| AlbumBeauty Behind The Madness | |
- Pop
- Pop Music
- Dance
- Dance Music
- Electronic Music
- Electropop
- Dua Lipa
Whenever the tune of 'Houdini' by Dua Lipa plays, I can't help but reminisce about my past relationships, especially the ones that ended abruptly and left me feeling like I was trapped in a magical illusion. The song's pulsating synths and ethereal vocals perfectly capture the emotions of longing and confusion that come with such experiences.
It's as if Dua Lipa has the power to transport listeners back to the 1980s with her electronic pop anthems, but with a distinctly modern twist. Her captivating melodies and irresistible dance beats have solidified her status as a true pop icon.
17. greedy (Tate McRae - 2023)
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Song information
| ArtistTate McRae | Release15-09-2023 |
| Time02:35 | View139M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableTeenage Girls |
| AlbumSOS | |
- Female Vocal
- Female empowerment
- Pop ballad
- Heartbreak Anthem
- Acoustic Ballad
- Breakup Anthem
- Emotional
- Teen Angst
- Teenage Angst
- Heartbreak Pop
- Tate McRae
- Love triangle
"Greedy" is a compelling track that immerses listeners in a whirlpool of emotions. Its nostalgic 2000s pop aura, reminiscent of Britney Spears' iconic era, evokes a sense of familiarity and comfort. Tate McRae's powerful vocals and captivating performance ignite a raw emotional connection, leaving listeners spellbound and longing for more.
McRae's journey from humble beginnings to stardom shines through in this song. The lyrics, filled with vulnerability and determination, resonate with those who have witnessed her rise to fame. The infectious melody and energetic beats create an anthem for self-empowerment, prompting listeners to embrace their dreams and never settle for less.
18. we can't be friends
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Song information
| ArtistAriana Grande | Release08-03-2024 |
| Time04:44 | View136M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| Albumeternal sunshine | |
- Sad Song
- Love Ballad
- Breakup Song
- Heartbreak Song
- Pop song
- Moving on
- Ariana Grande
- Pop Love
- Relationship Breakup
- Friendship Hurt
From the very first notes of "We Can't Be Friends" by Ariana Grande, listeners are captivated by its emotional depth and relatable lyrics. The song's stripped-down musical arrangement allows Grande's powerful vocals to shine through, conveying the raw pain and vulnerability of a love that can't be.
As the song progresses, listeners are drawn into the complex emotions it explores. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both intense and ultimately impossible, leaving listeners with a bittersweet feeling of longing and regret.
19. Kill Bill (2023)
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Song information
| ArtistSZA | Release10-01-2023 |
| Time04:36 | View112M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableSinger-songwriters |
| AlbumSOS | |
- Love
- Pop Music
- Female empowerment
- Love Ballad
- Breakup Song
- Empowering
- Intense
- Emotional
- Hip-Hop/Rap
- R&B Soul
- Betrayal
- Powerful
- SZA
- Seductive
- Female Empowering
- Revenge
- Revengeful
"Kill Bill" by SZA is a captivating musical masterpiece that unravels like a cinematic experience. The song opens with the haunting melody of "Nobody Gets Me," setting the tone for a deeply emotional journey. As it progresses, the track transforms into a powerful anthem of self-discovery and resilience, ending with the empowering declaration, "Seek and destroy."
SZA's fearless artistry shines through in "Kill Bill" She breaks free from industry norms, crafting a visually stunning music video that captures the song's raw emotion and artistic vision. The result is a groundbreaking work of art that resonates deeply with listeners, leaving an unforgettable impact on the music landscape.
20. obsessed (Olivia Rodrigo - 2024)
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Song information
| ArtistOlivia Rodrigo | Release22-03-2024 |
| Time03:05 | View17M+ |
| Likes 546K+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| AlbumGUTS (spilled) | |
- Pop Music
- Breakup Ballad
- Heartbreak
- Pop Punk
- Teen Angst
- Teenage Angst
- Olivia Rodrigo
"Obsessed" Olivia Rodrigo's breakout hit, has garnered critical acclaim, earning numerous accolades and solidifying her status as a rising star. This emotionally charged anthem resonates deeply with listeners, its raw vulnerability and confessional lyrics capturing the essence of heartbreak and unrequited love. The song's stripped-down musical arrangement, featuring Rodrigo's haunting vocals and a simple piano accompaniment, amplifies its emotional impact, leaving listeners mesmerized by its authenticity and relatability.
As the credits roll at the end of the music video, Rodrigo engages in a symbolic act of "cleaning up the mess," a poignant metaphor for her attempts to move on from a past relationship. The song's confessional nature encourages listeners to confront their own emotional struggles, making it both a personal and universal anthem of heartbreak. Rodrigo's raw lyrics, such as "but I can't help it, I got issues," capture the complexities of navigating love and loss, leaving listeners feeling seen and understood.