29 Unforgettable Hits: The Best Songs of 2010-2021

1. Shape of You

Catchy Melody: Shape of You's instantly recognizable reggae-infused rhythm and memorable hook cemented its place as a global phenomenon, perfectly capturing the upbeat energy of the early 2010s.

Vocal Performance: Ed Sheeran's smooth vocals and relatable lyrics made the song incredibly accessible, contributing to its massive popularity across diverse audiences during this period.

Cultural Impact: Its ubiquitous presence on radio and in popular culture solidified "Shape of You" as a defining track of its era, making it a significant entry in any best-of list from 2010-2021.

2. Uptown Funk (Mark Ronson ft Bruno Mars)

Sound: Uptown Funk's infectious blend of funk, soul, and pop created a sound undeniably fresh and exciting for its time, solidifying its place as a defining track of the 2010s.

Rhythm: The irresistible groove, driven by a powerful bassline and tight drumming, is instantly captivating and guaranteed to get you moving.

Vocal Performance: Bruno Mars' charismatic vocals, paired with Mark Ronson's production, deliver an energetic and unforgettable performance that remains a highlight of the decade.

3. Sorry - Purpose (Deluxe)

Genre/Sound: "Sorry" blends infectious R&B and pop elements, creating a smooth yet undeniably catchy track that perfectly encapsulates the sound of early 2010s pop.

Vocal Performance: Justin Bieber's vocal delivery is both vulnerable and powerful, showcasing a maturity beyond his years and adding to the song's emotional depth.

Cultural Impact: Released at the peak of Bieber's global stardom, "Sorry" became an undeniable anthem of the era, its ubiquitous presence cementing its place in 2010s pop culture history.

4. Thinking out Loud

Genre & Sound: A perfect blend of folk-pop and acoustic balladry, "Thinking Out Loud" offers a warm, intimate sound that feels both timeless and distinctly of its era (mid-2010s).

Vocal Performance: Ed Sheeran's emotive vocals are at their peak here, conveying vulnerability and sincerity that resonates deeply with listeners.

Lyrical Impact: The heartfelt lyrics about enduring love and growing old together created a cultural moment, making it a widely relatable and enduring anthem of the 2010s.

5. Hello

Hello - Adele

Vocal Performance: Adele's powerhouse vocals are at their peak in "Hello" showcasing incredible range and emotional depth that perfectly captures the song's melancholic tone.

Lyrical Content: The poignant lyrics about regret and longing resonate deeply, making it an unforgettable track for anyone who's experienced heartbreak and the desire for reconciliation.

Production: The minimalist production, focusing on Adele's voice and a simple piano melody, allows the raw emotion of the song to shine through, solidifying its place as a defining track of the 2010s.

6. Closer (Changes)

Sound: "Closer" masterfully blends future bass and pop elements, creating a catchy and instantly recognizable sound that defined a moment in the early 2010s EDM-pop crossover.

Vocals: Halsey's emotive vocals provide a compelling contrast to the track's upbeat tempo, adding a layer of emotional depth that resonated with listeners.

Cultural Impact: Released in 2016, "Closer" dominated charts globally and became a ubiquitous presence in pop culture, solidifying its place as a defining song of the era.

7. Rolling in the Deep (21 - 2025)

Genre-Defining Sound: Adele's powerhouse vocals and the song's gospel-tinged soul and blues influences created a unique sound that defined a moment in early 2010s pop.

Emotional Resonance: "Rolling in the Deep" masterfully captures themes of betrayal and resilience, making it deeply relatable and emotionally resonant for listeners.

Cultural Impact: Its massive success cemented Adele's status as a global superstar and the song remains a radio staple, showcasing its enduring appeal within the 2010-2021 timeframe.

8. All of Me - Love In The Future (Expanded Edition)

Genre: A soulful ballad that seamlessly blends R&B and pop, perfectly encapsulating the sound of the early 2010s.

Vocal Performance: John Legend's emotive vocals are breathtaking, showcasing his incredible range and control.

Lyrical Impact: The heartfelt lyrics about complete devotion resonate deeply, making it an unforgettable and enduring love song from the decade.

9. Someone Like You (2011)

Heart-wrenching Vocals: Adele's emotive delivery is the song's core strength, conveying raw vulnerability and heartbreak with unparalleled skill.

Iconic Piano Ballad Structure: The simple yet powerful piano melody and building instrumentation create a timeless and unforgettable soundscape, perfectly complementing the lyrics.

Enduring Popularity: Released in 2011, "Someone Like You" continues to resonate with listeners due to its relatable themes of loss and longing, securing its place as a defining track of the 2010s.

10. Thrift Shop (The Heist)

Sound: Thrift Shop's instantly recognizable beat, a blend of hip-hop and pop, is undeniably catchy and perfectly encapsulates the early 2010s sound.

Lyrical Content: The clever and humorous lyrics about finding unique style in thrift stores created a relatable and memorable cultural moment.

Cultural Impact: Its success transcended musical boundaries, becoming a viral sensation and solidifying its place as a defining song of the decade.