Best of 20 songs 2012

1. Glad You Came - Battleground (Deluxe Edition)

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• Love song
• Pop Music
• Dance-pop
• Pop ballad
• Romantic

"Glad You Came" The Wanted's infectious pop anthem, earned its place as a defining song of 2012. The track, released in 2011, became a global smash hit, dominating charts and airwaves for months. It wasn't just its chart-topping success that solidified its significance, but the song's ability to capture the youthful exuberance and carefree spirit of the era. The Wanted described 'Glad You Came' as a song that captures the essence of having a great time and enjoying the moment. They mentioned that the song's upbeat and infectious nature was intended to make people feel good and want to dance. This energy is undeniably present in the song's catchy melodies, driving beat, and the band's energetic vocals, making it an ideal soundtrack for summer parties and carefree nights out.

"Glad You Came" stands out for its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and carefree joy. The song's simple yet powerful message of celebrating the present moment and cherishing good times resonated deeply with listeners, making it a timeless anthem for a generation. The comments about the song often express a sense of longing for simpler times and the carefree days of youth, proving that the song's power to evoke feelings of happiness and nostalgia is enduring.

2. Set Fire to the Rain (21 - 2011)

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• Heartbreak
• Acoustic
• Adele
• Orchestral

From the very first notes of "Set Fire to the Rain" Adele's raw emotion and powerful vocals grab your attention. Released in 2011 as part of her critically acclaimed album "21," this song quickly became a defining anthem of 2012, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching the top ten in numerous other countries. Its soaring melodies and poignant lyrics about heartbreak and resilience struck a chord with listeners worldwide, cementing its status as a timeless ballad.

The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with anyone who has experienced the ups and downs of love. Adele's raw vocal delivery, coupled with the song's powerful message of hope and self-discovery, has made it a favorite for generations. The song's title itself, which Adele has said came to her while attempting to light a cigarette in the rain, perfectly encapsulates the song's themes of finding strength amidst hardship. "Set Fire to the Rain" is more than just a song; it's a testament to Adele's incredible talent and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.

3. We Found Love

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• Pop Music
• Sentimental
• Electronic dance
• House Music
• Rihanna

"We Found Love" a collaboration between Rihanna and Calvin Harris, dominated the airwaves in 2012, becoming a defining anthem of the era. This infectious blend of dance-pop and electronic elements, with its pulsating beat and layered synths, propelled it to the top of the charts worldwide. The song's success stemmed from its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, exploring themes of love, escapism, and the search for connection, resonating deeply with listeners. The song's impact was further amplified by its accompanying music video, which featured stunning visuals and a captivating narrative, solidifying its status as a pop culture phenomenon.

Rihanna's powerful vocals and Calvin Harris's signature production style created a sonic synergy that captivated audiences. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to evoke both joy and introspection, a testament to the universality of its themes and the undeniable power of its sound. Notably, Rihanna described "We Found Love" as one of her favorite songs, noting its powerful message about love and the feeling of euphoria it brings. Calvin Harris has also mentioned that the song was a turning point in his career, significantly boosting his profile as a producer. "We Found Love" stands as a timeless track that continues to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place amongst the best songs of 2012.

4. Drive By (Train)

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• Love song
• Catchy melody
• Acoustic Guitar
• Pop rock
• Rock Ballad

Have you ever listened to a melody that captures the essence of youthful optimism? "Drive By" by Train, released in 2012, is exactly that kind of song. While Train had previously established themselves with heartfelt ballads, "Drive By" marked a distinct shift in their sound, injecting a burst of high-energy rock into the music scene. The song, with its catchy hook and lyrical zip, quickly became a radio staple, its infectious energy echoing through car windows and out of headphones across the country. "Drive By" embodies that quintessential summer feeling, a carefree escape from the mundane with its vibrant melody and anthemic chorus.

The song's success wasn't just confined to radio waves. It captured the hearts of listeners with its relatable theme of trying to convince a love interest that their encounter is more than just a passing moment. This sentiment resonated deeply with fans, and the song's enduring popularity is a testament to its lasting impact. The song "Drive By" is a departure from Train's previous music, which often dealt with pain and sadness. Its high-energy beats and lyrical zip make it reminiscent of Bon Jovi's best work, offering a fresh, invigorating sound that perfectly captured the spirit of the year 2012.

5. Everybody Talks (Picture Show - 2012)

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• Dance-pop
• Indie Pop
• Alternative
• Synth Pop
• Electropop

'Everybody Talks' by Neon Trees is more than just a catchy pop-rock tune from 2012; it's a song that resonates with a universal experience. Its infectious energy and vibrant sound, reminiscent of early 1960s pop, propelled it onto the airwaves, becoming a major hit that year. The song's message, as explained by Tyler Glenn, explores the painful reality of gossip and rumors, serving as a powerful reminder to embrace authenticity.

The song's infectious energy and its relatable themes about the impact of rumors and the importance of self-acceptance made it a hit in 2012. It's a song that connects with listeners on a deeper level, and its message about embracing oneself resonates even more powerfully today.

6. What Makes You Beautiful (2011)

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• Pop
• Love song
• Love
• Teenage Love
• Boy band

Released in 2011, "What Makes You Beautiful" by One Direction became a global anthem in 2012, capturing the hearts of a generation with its infectious pop energy and relatable message. The song, with its upbeat power pop sound and prominent guitar-driven chorus, quickly resonated with a teenage audience, propelling the band to superstardom. Its success wasn't just limited to radio airwaves; it also dominated the charts, reaching the top spot in the UK and the top ten in numerous countries, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.

"What Makes You Beautiful" stands out not only for its catchy melody, but also for its powerful message of self-acceptance. The lyrics, which center around finding beauty in imperfections, encourage people to embrace their individuality and recognize that true beauty is not skin-deep. It highlights the importance of confidence and self-acceptance, a message that resonated deeply with young listeners. This uplifting sentiment, coupled with the band's youthful energy and undeniable charisma, made "What Makes You Beautiful" more than just a hit song—it became a cultural touchstone, capturing the spirit of a generation.

7. The Motto (Drake ft Lil Wayne - 2012)

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• Pop
• Hip-Hop
• Party
• Rap
• Drake

In a hip-hop scene dominated by braggadocio and lyrical prowess, "The Motto" by Drake and Lil Wayne emerged as a defining anthem of 2012. Released during a period when the Young Money crew was at the pinnacle of their success, the song captured the spirit of a generation with its infectious beat and the mantra "YOLO" – You Only Live Once. The track's catchy hook resonated with a generation grappling with ambition, fleeting moments, and the need for self-expression. Its popularity was fueled by its infectious energy, relatable themes, and its presence on Drake's chart-topping album "Take Care".

"The Motto" solidified Drake's place as a rap superstar and served as a reminder of Lil Wayne's enduring lyrical talent. The track's impact extended beyond the charts, with the "YOLO" phrase becoming a cultural phenomenon, echoing through social media, fashion trends, and even inspiring a popular documentary. The song's enduring popularity even seeped into more recent music, with Lil Baby reviving the sentiment in his 2021 hit "The Bigger Picture", further cementing the song's relevance and legacy within the hip-hop landscape.

8. Wild Ones (Flo Rida ft Sia - 2012)

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• Pop ballad
• Dance
• Party Anthem
• Collaboration
• Electropop

If you haven't yet listened to "Wild Ones" by Flo Rida featuring Sia, now is the perfect time to indulge in its infectious energy. This electrifying anthem, released in 2012, was a global hit, capturing the hearts of listeners with its blend of hip-hop and pop sensibilities. "Wild Ones" is a classic example of the dance-pop genre, featuring a driving beat, synth melodies, and Sia's soaring vocals. It was a defining song of its time, dominating the charts and serving as the soundtrack to countless summer nights.

The song's power lies in its ability to transport listeners back to a carefree time, evoking feelings of nostalgia and youthful exuberance. Many listeners have shared how "Wild Ones" brings back memories of their younger selves, before life's responsibilities took hold. Sia's powerful vocals, particularly in the chorus, have a unique ability to evoke a sense of bittersweet longing, reminiscent of past experiences. "Wild Ones" is a song that embodies the feeling of being young and free, making it an enduring favorite for those seeking a dose of nostalgic energy.

9. We Are Young (Some Nights - 2011)

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• Indie Pop
• Alternative
• Pop rock
• Anthemic
• Youthful

Bursting with youthful energy and an infectious melody, "We Are Young" by Fun., featuring Janelle Monáe, became a defining anthem of 2012. Its soaring chorus, propelled by Nate Ruess's powerful vocals and Janelle Monáe's soulful contributions, captured the essence of carefree abandon and the desire to embrace life's fleeting moments. The song's success transcended musical boundaries, becoming a cultural touchstone for a generation grappling with the complexities of adulthood while longing for the simplicity of their youth.

"We Are Young" resonated deeply with listeners, becoming a soundtrack for countless celebrations, graduations, and nights out with friends. It was a song that captured the spirit of a time marked by both hope and uncertainty, reflecting a generation that sought connection and shared experiences. Nate Ruess, the lead vocalist of Fun., has mentioned in interviews that the song was inspired by a night out in New York City and the feeling of camaraderie and youthful exuberance. Janelle Monáe's contribution to the song was praised for adding a unique and soulful element to the track. The song's enduring popularity speaks to its timeless message of embracing youth, finding joy in the present, and forging lasting connections.

10. One More Night (2012)

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• Love Ballad
• Heartbreak Song
• Pop Classic
• Maroon 5

"One More Night" by Maroon 5 was a dominant force on the radio waves in 2012. Its infectious reggae-infused pop sound and raw, relatable lyrics about a turbulent relationship resonated deeply with listeners, propelling it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for an impressive nine consecutive weeks. The song's success was not limited to the charts, it also earned critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

The song's memorable hook, "So I cross my heart and I hope to die, that I'll only stay with you one more night," captures the conflicted emotions of the relationship. Adam Levine has mentioned in interviews that the song's lyrics reflect the tension and conflict in a relationship that is both passionate and tumultuous. This raw honesty, combined with the catchy melody, created a powerful and enduring anthem for anyone who has ever struggled with the complexities of love.

11. Starships (2012)

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• Dance-pop
• Electro Pop
• club music
• female rappers
• Nicki Minaj

"Starships" released in 2012, became a defining anthem of the year's vibrant pop landscape. Nicki Minaj, known for her sharp lyrical prowess and fearless persona, took a different route with this track, embracing a catchy, dance-driven sound that blended pop, dance, and hip-hop elements. "Starships" dominated radio airwaves and climbed to the top of charts globally, becoming one of the most recognizable songs of 2012.

Its infectious energy and carefree lyrics, encouraging listeners to embrace life's joys and ignore negativity, resonated with audiences seeking escapism and a good time. Nicki Minaj has stated that "Starships" is about having a good time and not caring about what others think. She wanted to create a song that would make people feel happy and free. The song's enduring popularity speaks to its ability to evoke a sense of fun and carefree abandon, making it a timeless party anthem that continues to inspire joy in listeners today.

12. Call Me Maybe (Carly Rae Jepsen)

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• Pop
• Love song
• Pop Music
• Romantic
• Bubblegum pop

"Call Me Maybe" by Carly Rae Jepsen was a pop juggernaut in 2012, its catchy melody and infectious energy propelling it to the top of charts worldwide. The song's undeniable success was fueled by a combination of factors: its undeniable earworm quality, the viral marketing push from celebrities like Justin Bieber, and its relatable themes of youthful romance. This isn't just a song about a crush; it's a song about the thrill of a new connection, the anticipation of a call, and the vulnerability of putting yourself out there. Carly Rae Jepsen has mentioned in interviews that the song was inspired by a crush she had and that it was written to capture the excitement and uncertainty of new love. This authenticity resonates with listeners, making "Call Me Maybe" a timeless anthem of youthful infatuation.

13. I Won't Give Up (Jason Mraz)

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• Emotional Ballad
• Love Ballad
• Inspirational
• Acoustic Pop
• Jason Mraz

Released in 2012, "I Won't Give Up" by Jason Mraz quickly resonated with audiences, becoming a chart-topping hit and securing a place among the year's most beloved songs. Its acoustic folk-pop ballad style, characterized by Mraz's signature blend of soulful vocals and uplifting melodies, struck a chord with listeners searching for an anthem of hope and resilience. The song's gentle instrumentation, featuring a prominent acoustic guitar and layered harmonies, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the heartfelt lyrics.

"I Won't Give Up" stands out not only for its musical qualities but also for its poignant message. Mraz's lyrics touch on themes of perseverance, self-love, and the enduring power of commitment, urging listeners to never give up on their dreams, relationships, or personal growth. Jason Mraz has stated that 'I Won't Give Up' was written to make a difference in people's lives, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and commitment in various aspects of life, not just romantic relationships. The song's universal message and its ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level have made it a timeless classic, solidifying its position among the best songs of 2012.

14. Stronger (Kelly Clarkson)

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• Upbeat
• Breakup Anthem
• Kelly Clarkson
• Overcoming Adversity
• Personal Growth

"Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" by Kelly Clarkson, released in 2012, became an anthem for resilience and overcoming adversity. The song's infectious dance-pop beat and uplifting message resonated with listeners worldwide, catapulting it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning it multiple awards nominations.

At its core, "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" is a song about empowerment and finding inner strength. The lyrics capture the idea that going through difficult times can make you stronger and help you grow as a person. It is about overcoming challenges, breaking free from negativity, and embracing a positive outlook on life. The song's powerful message inspired listeners who had experienced their own struggles, offering them a reminder that they too could overcome anything they faced.

15. Good Feeling (Flo Rida)

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• Pop Music
• Hip-Hop
• Dance Music
• Hip Hop Music
• Flo Rida

'Good Feeling' by Flo Rida isn't just a song; it's a sonic time machine, transporting listeners back to the carefree days of 2012. This infectious track, released in the summer of 2011, became an anthem for a generation yearning for simple pleasures and unbridled joy. Its catchy melody, driven by a sample of Avicii's 'Levels' (which itself samples Etta James's 'Something's Got a Hold on Me'), instantly gets your feet tapping and head bobbing. Flo Rida dedicated the song to Etta James following her death in January 2012, acknowledging her influence and the legendary status of her music.

Flo Rida, a prominent figure in the dance-pop scene of 2012, perfectly captured the spirit of the times with 'Good Feeling' The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, resonating with listeners even today. It encapsulates the carefree energy of a bygone era, reminding us of simpler days when life's biggest worries were choosing a social networking platform or figuring out which video game to play next.

16. Whistle (Wild Ones - 2012)

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• Pop
• Dance
• R&B
• Party
• Flo Rida

Released in 2012, "Whistle" by Flo Rida was a smash hit that dominated the airwaves and became a defining song of the year. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, demonstrating its massive popularity and cultural impact. The song's catchy whistling hook, a sound that Flo Rida described as inspired by his desire for a unique and memorable sound, quickly became synonymous with the song and made it instantly recognizable. This infectious melody, paired with playful lyrics, created a fun and lighthearted atmosphere that resonated with listeners.

"Whistle" embodied the dance-driven sound of 2012, a year that saw the rise of electronic dance music (EDM) and hip-hop artists who incorporated these elements into their work. Flo Rida, with his signature blend of infectious hooks and catchy lyrics, perfectly captured the energy of the time. "Whistle" exemplifies the carefree and energetic spirit of 2012, a year that saw a surge in electronic and dance music.

17. Somebody That I Used To Know (Gotye ft Kimbra)

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Released in 2012, "Somebody That I Used to Know" by Gotye featuring Kimbra became a global phenomenon, capturing the zeitgeist of a year marked by emotional introspection and the rise of social media. The song's raw, vulnerable lyrics resonated with listeners on a personal level, exploring the complexities of heartbreak and the bittersweet memories of lost love. Its distinctive blend of soulful vocals, electronic beats, and a captivating melody made it a standout track, quickly becoming an anthem for a generation grappling with the ups and downs of relationships.

"Somebody That I Used to Know" received widespread critical acclaim, winning numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Record of the Year. The song also topped charts worldwide, solidifying its status as a defining hit of 2012. The song's timeless quality lies in its relatable themes of loss, longing, and the passage of time, making it a track that continues to resonate with listeners years later. Critics praised the song for its unique sound and emotional depth, often comparing it to the works of Sting, David Bowie, and Bon Iver. "Somebody That I Used to Know" remains a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music to capture and convey the complexities of human emotions.

18. Some Nights (Some Nights - 2012)

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"Some Nights" the anthemic title track from Fun.'s 2012 album, became a defining song of the era, earning the band a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. This indie pop/baroque pop fusion soared to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, captivating audiences worldwide with its soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the struggles and uncertainties of young adulthood, providing a relatable soundtrack for a generation navigating life's challenges.

Producer Jeff Bhasker mentioned that Nate Ruess, the lead vocalist, has a unique ability to tackle dark subjects with a pop melody, making the song both deep and catchy. The result is a powerful and emotional anthem that resonates with listeners on a personal level, offering a sense of comfort and connection during difficult times. 'Some Nights' has become a timeless reminder of the importance of cherishing relationships and expressing love, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable songs of 2012.

19. Titanium (David Guetta ft Sia - 2011)

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Released in 2011 and gaining widespread popularity in 2012, "Titanium" by David Guetta featuring Sia is a powerful anthem that resonated with listeners worldwide. The song's infectious energy and Sia's emotionally charged vocals, layered over a pulsating, synth-driven house beat, captured the spirit of the era. "Titanium" was a chart-topping hit, reaching number one in the UK and topping charts in numerous other countries. Its success was fueled by its relatable lyrics about strength and resilience, themes that struck a chord with listeners during a time of global uncertainty.

What truly sets "Titanium" apart is its emotional depth. Sia's raw and vulnerable vocals, combined with the song's empowering message, created a powerful and moving experience for listeners. The song's popularity speaks to the enduring power of music to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. David Guetta has described "Titanium" as one of his favorite songs from the album, praising Sia's vocal performance and the song's message of strength and resilience. Sia, on the other hand, initially did not want to be credited for the song, as she was focusing on her career as a songwriter rather than a performer at the time. "Titanium" was a defining track of 2012, perfectly encapsulating the year's musical trends and the emotional landscape of its listeners.

20. Payphone

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In a year dominated by dance-pop anthems and electronic beats, 'Payphone' by Maroon 5 featuring Wiz Khalifa emerged as a powerful ballad, capturing the hearts of listeners with its raw emotion and relatable story of heartbreak. Released in 2012, 'Payphone' quickly became a chart-topper, dominating radio airwaves and solidifying its place as a defining song of the era.

The track seamlessly blends the pop rock sensibilities of Maroon 5 with Wiz Khalifa's signature hip-hop swagger, creating a sound that resonated with a wide audience. The song's signature hook, "I'm at a payphone, trying to call home," is instantly recognizable and evokes a sense of longing and isolation, perfectly encapsulating the theme of lost love. Adam Levine, the lead vocalist of Maroon 5, described 'Payphone' as a song about the end of a relationship and the feelings of regret and longing that come with it. This relatable narrative, coupled with the song's catchy melody and powerful vocals, propelled 'Payphone' to iconic status, solidifying its place as a timeless anthem of heartbreak.