NME, the iconic music publication, has shaped generations of music lovers with its insightful reviews and trendsetting lists. So, when you’re searching for the ultimate soundtrack to your life, looking at their choices is essential. That's why we've compiled this definitive list of the best songs NME has ever championed, a curated collection spanning decades and genres. From the raw energy of punk anthems to the soulful depths of indie ballads, this isn't just a top 10; it's a journey through musical history, highlighting tracks that have defined eras and captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado seeking a fresh perspective or a new listener looking to discover groundbreaking artists, this list offers an invaluable guide to essential listening. Dive in and rediscover the power and passion that makes music so vital to our lives – and let us know which NME-approved bangers you'd add!
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Toxic | Britney Spears | In The Zone | 675M+ |
| 2. Gold Digger |
Kanye West Jamie Foxx | Late Registration | 360M+ |
| 3. Killing In The Name | Rage Against The Machine | Rage Against The Machine - XX (20th Anniversary Special Edition) | 272M+ |
| 4. Boy's a Liar Pt. 2 |
PinkPantheress Ice Spice | 220M+ | |
| 5. Water | Tyla | The Beginning | 215M+ |
| 6. Super Shy | NewJeans | LA VIDA ES UNA | 200M+ |
| 7. No One Knows | Queens of the Stone Age | Songs For The Deaf | 178M+ |
1. Toxic (Britney Spears)
Production: The song's iconic synth riff and driving beat create an irresistible, darkly seductive soundscape that remains instantly recognizable.
Vocals: Britney Spears delivers a performance brimming with both vulnerability and controlled rage, perfectly capturing the song's intoxicating yet toxic theme.
Cultural Impact: "Toxic" transcended its era, becoming a defining example of early 2000s pop and influencing countless artists with its unique blend of dark pop and striking visuals.
2. Gold Digger
Sound: Kanye West's signature blend of soulful samples and hard-hitting beats creates an instantly recognizable and undeniably catchy soundscape, perfectly capturing the zeitgeist of the mid-2000s.
Vocals: The interplay between Kanye's braggadocio and Jamie Foxx's smooth, soulful vocals creates a compelling dynamic, highlighting the song's complex lyrical themes.
Pop Culture Impact: "Gold Digger" remains a cultural touchstone, its memorable hook and insightful lyrics cementing its place as a defining track of its era and a staple in any discussion of Kanye's influential career.
3. Killing In The Name (1992)
Sound: Rage Against the Machine's signature blend of aggressive funk metal and politically charged lyrics makes "Killing in the Name" a raw and visceral listening experience, perfectly fitting NME's taste for rebellious anthems.
Rhythm: The song's driving beat and powerful riffs create an undeniable energy, making it a perfect choice for headbanging and moshing – a classic live performance staple.
Cultural Impact: Its enduring popularity and continued relevance as a protest song solidifies its place amongst NME's all-time greats, showcasing its timeless power.
4. Boy's a Liar Pt. 2 (2023)
Catchy Hook: PinkPantheress and Ice Spice deliver an undeniably catchy hook that burrows into your brain, making "Boy's a Liar Pt. 2" instantly memorable and perfect for any NME best-of playlist.
Genre-bending Sound: The track masterfully blends elements of hyperpop, R&B, and hip-hop, creating a unique sonic landscape that's both fresh and familiar, ensuring broad appeal.
Viral Potential: Its infectious energy and undeniable charisma make it primed for TikTok virality, further cementing its place among the NME's best.
5. Water (Tyla - 2025)
Sound: Tyla's "Water" boasts a captivating soundscape, blending ethereal synths with a driving, subtly hypnotic beat that's perfect for both focused listening and background ambiance.
Vocals: Tyla's vocals are the centerpiece, delivering a performance that's both emotionally resonant and technically impressive, showcasing a unique vocal texture that perfectly complements the song's atmosphere.
Emotional Impact: The track evokes a feeling of wistful longing and introspective calm, making it a standout choice for those seeking a truly immersive and emotionally engaging listening experience.
6. Super Shy (LA VIDA ES UNA - 2025)
Sound: Super Shy's infectious blend of dreamy synths and crisp percussion creates an irresistible soundscape that's both captivating and undeniably catchy, perfectly suited for a "best of" list.
Vocals: NewJeans' vocals are smooth and enchanting, delivering the playful lyrics with a confidence that elevates the track beyond typical K-Pop fare. Their delivery is memorable and distinctive.
Pop Culture Impact: The song's viral success and widespread acclaim solidify its place as a significant entry in contemporary pop music, making it a deserved inclusion among NME's best.
7. No One Knows (Queens of the Stone Age)
Sound: No One Knows' signature riff is a masterclass in desert rock, instantly recognizable and endlessly replayable, perfectly capturing the raw energy NME readers love.
Vocals: Josh Homme's distinctive vocals are both vulnerable and powerful, adding to the song's emotional depth and making it a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Rhythm: The relentless, driving rhythm section provides a perfect backbone to the song's intensity, making it ideal for head-banging and high-energy moments, just the kind of track that NME highlights for its raw power.
8. What Was I Made For? (Billie Eilish ft Finneas O'Connell - 2025)
Haunting Vocals: Billie Eilish's signature breathy vocals deliver a raw emotional vulnerability, perfectly capturing the melancholic reflection of the lyrics.
Minimalist Production: Finneas O'Connell's production is sparse yet impactful, allowing Eilish's vocals and the song's emotional core to shine through, creating an intimate listening experience.
Emotional Resonance: The song's introspective lyrics and delicate melody create a deeply affecting piece, making it a standout choice for its emotional depth and relatability.
9. vampire (GUTS)
Sound: Olivia Rodrigo's "vampire" boasts a driving, darkly atmospheric soundscape that perfectly complements its lyrical themes of betrayal and resentment, setting it apart from her previous work.
Vocals: Rodrigo's vocal performance is raw and emotionally charged, conveying vulnerability while simultaneously exuding a potent sense of power; her delivery is a masterclass in controlled intensity.
Emotional Impact: The song's ability to tap into universal feelings of heartbreak and revenge ensures its resonance with listeners, making it a truly unforgettable addition to Rodrigo's discography, and a worthy contender in any "best of" list.
10. Now and Then
NME's Verdict: A testament to The Beatles' songwriting prowess, "Now and Then" showcases their ability to craft a timeless melody with unforgettable vocal harmonies.
Catchy Hook: The song's instantly recognizable chorus and driving rhythm ensure it remains etched in your memory long after the final note.
Enduring Appeal: Its blend of classic Beatles' charm and undeniable musicality explains why it continues to resonate with generations of music lovers and secures its place among NME's best.
11My Love Mine All Mine
Mitski
2024
The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We
12bad idea right?
Olivia Rodrigo
2023
GUTS
13Rush
Troye Sivan
2023
Something To Give Each Other
14The Message
Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five
1982
15The Summoning
Sleep Token
2023
16Padam Padam
Kylie Minogue
2023
17Ghosts Again
Depeche Mode
2023
Memento Mori
18A&W
Lana Del Rey
2023
19Fight The Power
Public Enemy
1989
Fear Of A Black Planet
20Do You Realize??
The Flaming Lips
2002
Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots
21Nothing Matters
The Last Dinner Party
2023
22Little Things
Jorja Smith
2023
23Not Strong Enough
boygenius
2023
24Sweet Sounds Of Heaven
The Rolling Stones
2023
25Ice Cream Man
RAYE
2023
26The Narcissist
Blur
2022
27I Am The Resurrection
The Stone Roses
1989
28What A Waster
The Libertines
2002