2013 was a remarkable year in music, delivering a diverse range of sounds that resonated across genres. From emerging indie artists to established hip-hop icons, the year’s top songs captured the cultural zeitgeist and continue to be celebrated today. This article revisits some of the most memorable tracks of 2013, exploring why they earned their place among the year’s best.
Perfect Pussy’s raw energy burst onto the scene with “I,” a track that immediately grabbed attention with its intense sound and unapologetic attitude.
Perfect Pussy – “I”
Emerging from a Bandcamp link, Perfect Pussy’s “I” was an electrifying introduction to a band brimming with visceral energy. For listeners attuned to the raw sounds of Times New Viking or the intensity of Hüsker Dü, “I” delivered a similar punch, updated for a new generation. The track’s chaotic guitars and shouted vocals conveyed a sense of urgency and passion. Despite the intentionally obscured lyrics, the emotional core of the song was palpable, resonating with a feeling of raw, unfiltered expression. The explosive chorus cemented its place as an anthem, signaling Perfect Pussy as a vital new voice in the indie music landscape and easily one of the standout 2013 songs.
Perfect Pussy performing live, showcasing their raw energy.
Rhye’s “Open” offered a different kind of intimacy, characterized by its smooth, sensual sound and exploration of vulnerability.
Rhye – “Open”
Before Rhye became a known entity, “Open” circulated online with captivating visuals, enhancing its mystique. The initial video, featuring Mike Milosh in a stripped-down performance for his wife, set the tone for intimacy and vulnerability. Accompanying videos depicting couples further emphasized the song’s themes of connection and openness. However, “Open” transcends mere seduction; it’s a profound statement about emotional exposure, standing in contrast to more overtly sexualized music. While sensuality is present in lines like “shake in your thighs” and “sound in your sighs,” Rhye focuses on the unspoken language of intimacy. The minimalist arrangement, reminiscent of Sade’s sophisticated sound, highlights Milosh’s smooth vocals and subtle instrumentation, making “Open” a standout track in the 2013 musical landscape for its sophisticated take on sensuality and emotional depth.
Rhye performing "Open" in a dimly lit, intimate setting.
A$AP Rocky’s “Fuckin’ Problems” assembled a hip-hop dream team, resulting in a chart-topping hit that showcased the collective charisma of its stars.
A$AP Rocky – “Fuckin’ Problems” [ft. 2 Chainz, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar]
“Fuckin’ Problems” was a collaborative tour-de-force, bringing together A$AP Rocky, 2 Chainz, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar – four of hip-hop’s most magnetic personalities. The track felt like a cypher reimagined for the Top 40, where the artists competed not with lyrical complexity, but with sheer pop appeal. Produced by Noah “40” Shebib and Drake (under the alias Champagne Papi), the song’s infectious synth-bass line provided the perfect foundation for each rapper to showcase their audience-engaging tactics. From nostalgic pop-rap references to playful puns and cheeky humor, each verse was crafted to charm. 2 Chainz’s undeniably catchy and repetitive hook became instantly iconic. While debates arose about who delivered the best verse—Rocky’s Keith Sweat nod, Drake’s Nelly quote, or Kendrick’s witty wordplay—the ultimate victory belonged to everyone. “Fuckin’ Problems” became a career high for most of the featured artists, solidifying its place as one of the most popular and enduring 2013 songs, and a testament to collaborative star power in hip-hop.
Album cover for A$AP Rocky's "Long. Live. A$AP", featuring the single "Fuckin' Problems".
These tracks represent just a glimpse of the diverse and compelling music that defined 2013. From raw indie rock to sensual R&B and star-studded hip-hop, the top songs of 2013 showcased a vibrant and evolving musical landscape, leaving a lasting impact on the decade’s sound.
