The roaring twenties are over, but the music? Oh, the music lives on! This decade has gifted us with an incredible tapestry of sounds, from the infectious beats of global pop sensations to the introspective lyrics of indie darlings. Picking the absolute best songs of the 2020's is a monumental task, a subjective journey through a sonic landscape shaped by global events and evolving artistic expressions. But that's exactly what we're going to embark on! This list isn't just a countdown; it’s a curated exploration of the tracks that defined a generation – the anthems that blasted from car radios, the heartbreak ballads that fueled late-night drives, and the unexpected collaborations that redefined musical boundaries. Whether you’re a seasoned music aficionado or just looking for some fresh tunes to add to your playlist, get ready to rediscover your favorite tracks and perhaps unearth some hidden gems among the best songs of the 2020's. Prepare for a nostalgic ride through the decade's most unforgettable sounds!
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Dynamite | BTS | 2B+ | |
| 2. STAY |
Justin Bieber The Kid LAROI | My World 2.0 | 928M+ |
| 3. Levitating | Dua Lipa | Future Nostalgia | 895M+ |
| 4. Blinding Lights | The Weeknd | After Hours | 849M+ |
| 5. Peaches |
Justin Bieber Daniel Caesar Giveon | Justice | 753M+ |
| 6. As It Was | Harry Styles | Harry's House | 749M+ |
| 7. Circles | Post Malone | Hollywood's Bleeding | 695M+ |
1. Dynamite
Infectious Energy: Dynamite's relentlessly upbeat tempo and catchy chorus are undeniably infectious, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any moment.
Global Pop Phenomenon: Its massive success transcended language barriers, solidifying BTS's status as a global pop powerhouse and marking a high point in 2020's music scene.
Retro-Inspired Charm: The song masterfully blends disco-pop influences with a contemporary production, creating a sound both fresh and nostalgic, making it a timeless addition to any best-of list.
2. STAY (Justin Bieber ft The Kid LAROI - 2025)
A Defining Collaboration: STAY, by Justin Bieber and The Kid LAROI, exemplifies the potent synergy of two distinct vocal styles, creating a sound uniquely representative of early 2020s pop.
Emotional Resonance: The song's melancholic yet catchy melody, coupled with relatable lyrics about heartbreak and longing, cemented its place in the hearts of listeners and made it a defining anthem of the era.
Enduring Popularity: Its widespread success across streaming platforms and its continued presence in playlists highlight STAY's enduring appeal and position as a cornerstone of the 2020s music landscape.
3. Levitating (Future Nostalgia)
Infectious Groove: Levitating's undeniable disco-infused beat is a masterclass in irresistible rhythm, perfectly capturing the energetic spirit of the 2020s.
Effortless Vocals: Dua Lipa's vocals are smooth and captivating, adding a layer of sophistication to the song's already infectious energy.
Timeless Appeal: While released in the 2020s, Levitating's classic pop structure and undeniable catchiness ensure its place among the era's defining tracks.
4. Blinding Lights
Synth-Heavy Retro Vibe: Blinding Lights masterfully blends 80s synth-pop influences with a modern, polished production, creating a uniquely nostalgic yet fresh sound perfectly encapsulating the decade's sonic landscape.
Unforgettable Vocal Performance: The Weeknd's vocal delivery is both powerful and emotionally resonant, showcasing his signature falsetto and conveying a sense of longing and intensity that resonates deeply with listeners.
Cultural Impact: Its infectious beat and catchy melody propelled Blinding Lights to become a global phenomenon, solidifying its place as a defining track of the 2020s and a staple in pop culture.
5. Peaches (Justice - 2025)
Smooth R&B Vibes: Peaches masterfully blends Justin Bieber's signature pop sensibilities with the soulful vocals of Daniel Caesar and Giveon, creating a luxuriously smooth R&B soundscape that defines a key sound of the early 2020s.
Unforgettable Melody: The song's instantly catchy melody and hypnotic rhythm are undeniably addictive, cementing its place amongst the most memorable tracks of the decade.
Collaborative Genius: The collaboration between these three distinct artists is a testament to the power of creative synergy, resulting in a track that transcends genre boundaries and remains a standout achievement of the 2020s music scene.
6As It Was
Harry Styles
2022
Harry's House
7Circles
Post Malone
2019
Hollywood's Bleeding
8Montero
Lil Nas X
2021
9Life Goes On
BTS
2020
10drivers license
Olivia Rodrigo
2021
SOUR
11WAP
Cardi B,Megan Thee Stallion
2020
Shoot For The Stars Aim For The Moon
12Say So
Doja Cat
2019
Hot Pink
13good 4 u
Olivia Rodrigo
2021
SOUR
14Mood
iann dior,24kGoldn
2020
El Dorado
15INDUSTRY BABY
Jack Harlow,Lil Nas X
2021
Stoney (Deluxe)
16Rain On Me
Lady Gaga,Ariana Grande
2020
On The 6
17Watermelon Sugar
Harry Styles
2019
Fine Line
18Toosie Slide
Drake
2020
Tickets To My Downfall
19Stuck with U
Justin Bieber,Ariana Grande
2020
Rock Of The Westies
20Anti-Hero
Taylor Swift
2023
21Rockstar
DaBaby,Roddy Ricch
2020
22cardigan
Taylor Swift
2020
folklore
23Savage Love
Jason Derulo,Jawsh 685
2020
Get Weird (Expanded Edition)
24willow
Taylor Swift
2020
evermore
25FRANCHISE
Travis Scott,Young Thug,M.I.A.
2020
So Much Fun
26About Damn Time
Lizzo
2022
27Kill Bill
SZA
2023
SOS
28Savage
Megan Thee Stallion
2020
Suga
29Super Freaky Girl
Nicki Minaj
2022