- A year etched in our memories for various reasons, not least for its incredible soundtrack. It was a year of genre-bending hits, the rise of pop icons, and songs that became the anthems of a generation. Compilations like Now! That’s What I Call Music 31 perfectly captured this vibrant musical landscape, offering a snapshot of the sounds dominating radios, clubs, and personal playlists around the globe. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back to explore some of the Best Songs Of 2009, revisiting the tracks that defined the year and continue to resonate today.
Now! That’s What I Call Music 31 Album Cover featuring various pop artists from 2009
CD 1: Pop Perfection and Chart-Topping Hits
1. Beyoncé – ‘Sweet Dreams’
Beyoncé’s ‘Sweet Dreams’ showcased her versatility, blending pop with an unexpected electronic edge. Released during a period where pop music was experimenting with darker, synth-driven sounds, this track stood out with its Depeche Mode-esque vibe combined with Beyoncé’s signature vocal power. It was a bold and innovative move that solidified her position as a leading force in contemporary music. The song’s dreamy yet powerful sound perfectly encapsulated the evolving pop landscape of 2009.
2. Jay Sean feat. Lil Wayne – ‘Down’
‘Down’ by Jay Sean featuring Lil Wayne became an instant party anthem. Its infectious “down-down-down” hook and blend of pop and R&B resonated widely, making it a global chart-topper. The song’s appeal lay in its simple yet catchy melody and its feel-good vibe, perfectly suited for summer playlists and dance floors. It marked a significant moment for Jay Sean, propelling him into mainstream international success and demonstrating the power of cross-genre collaborations in 2009.
3. Sean Kingston – ‘Face Drop’
Sean Kingston’s ‘Face Drop’ continued the upbeat, synth-infused pop trend of the year. While sharing sonic similarities with ‘Down’, ‘Face Drop’ offered its own blend of catchy melodies and Kingston’s distinctive vocal style. It contributed to the summery, lighthearted feel of the 2009 charts, showcasing the popularity of danceable, synth-heavy pop music at the time.
4. Black Eyed Peas – ‘I Gotta Feeling’
‘I Gotta Feeling’ by the Black Eyed Peas was undeniably the song of 2009. Its omnipresence was a testament to its perfectly crafted blend of club and radio appeal. The song’s repetitive, infectious riff and celebratory lyrics made it inescapable – from morning commutes to late-night parties. Released before will.i.am’s production style became arguably overused, ‘I Gotta Feeling’ captured the Black Eyed Peas at their peak, delivering a track that defined the sound of summer 2009 and beyond.
5. Taylor Swift – ‘Should’ve Said No’
Before her full pop transition, Taylor Swift’s ‘Should’ve Said No’ showcased her early talent for crafting emotionally resonant, hook-driven songs. While rooted in country, the song leaned towards pop sensibilities, featuring journal-like lyrics and catchy melodies that would become her trademarks. This track highlighted Swift’s burgeoning songwriting prowess and her ability to connect with audiences through relatable narratives of heartbreak and teenage angst, setting the stage for her future pop dominance.
6. Gin – ‘Oh My’
Gin Wigmore’s ‘Oh My’ was a powerful and somewhat underrated gem from 2009. With its bluesy undertones and Wigmore’s distinctive, raspy vocals, the song built anticipation before erupting into a sing-along chorus. Its inclusion on Now! 31 helped broaden its reach, and its memorable middle-eight and explosive final section made it a standout track, perfect for injecting energy into any playlist.
7. Lily Allen – ’22’
Lily Allen’s ’22’ maintained her signature witty lyricism and bouncy production style. While not her biggest hit, it exemplified her charmingly wry take on pop music. The song’s lighthearted yet insightful lyrics, delivered with Allen’s honeyed vocals, provided a refreshing alternative to more bombastic pop tracks of the year, showcasing her unique voice in the 2009 musical landscape.
8. Paloma Faith – ‘Stone Cold Sober’
Paloma Faith’s debut single, ‘Stone Cold Sober’, introduced her theatrical vocal style and dramatic flair to the mainstream. The song’s grand, almost theatrical production hinted at her future career trajectory, setting her apart with a sound that was both retro-inspired and distinctly modern. It established Faith as an artist with a strong personal statement and a stage presence that demanded attention.
9. Jet – ‘She’s a Genius’
Jet’s ‘She’s a Genius’ provided a dose of rock energy to the pop-dominated compilation. With its classic rock sound and catchy guitar riffs, the song offered a different flavor within the collection of 2009 hits. While perhaps not as culturally impactful as other tracks on the album, it represented the continued presence of rock influences within the mainstream music scene.
10. Pink – ‘Funhouse’
Pink’s ‘Funhouse’ was a unique blend of pop sensibilities and personal expression. The song’s quirky, slightly theatrical vibe, combined with Pink’s powerful vocals and humorous lyrics, made it a standout track. Its inclusion on Now! 31 likely contributed to its longevity, showcasing Pink’s ability to deliver mid-tempo tracks that were both commercially viable and deeply personal, solidifying her staying power in the pop world.
11. Gossip – ‘Heavy Cross’
Gossip’s ‘Heavy Cross’ was a defining track of 2009, perfectly capturing the zeitgeist with its fusion of pop, rock, and punk elements. Beth Ditto’s powerhouse vocals were the centerpiece, channeling influences from house divas to rock legends. The song’s raw energy and kiss-off lyrics resonated globally, becoming Gossip’s biggest hit and a testament to the power of genre-bending music in the late 2000s.
12. Boys Like Girls – ‘Love Drunk’
Boys Like Girls’ ‘Love Drunk’ tapped into the pop-punk energy that still held sway in 2009. With its catchy chorus and driving momentum, the song offered a blend of relatable lyrics about youthful experiences and infectious melodies. It represented the enduring appeal of pop-punk within the broader pop music landscape of the year.
13. Cascada – ‘Evacuate the Dancefloor’
Cascada’s ‘Evacuate the Dancefloor’ was pure Eurodance energy, designed for the club. Its high-energy beat and catchy vocals, punctuated by an unexpected rap interlude, made it a quintessential dance track of 2009. The song’s infectious rhythm and party-ready vibe cemented its place as a staple in nightclubs and dance playlists around the world.
14. Pitbull – ‘I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)’
Pitbull’s ‘I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)’ marked his breakthrough into global stardom. With its distinctive Latin-infused beats and repetitive, catchy phrases, the song was inescapable in 2009. It paved the way for Pitbull’s “Mr. Worldwide” persona and his subsequent dominance in the global pop scene, demonstrating the growing influence of Latin rhythms in mainstream music.
15. Lady Gaga – ‘Paparazzi’
Lady Gaga’s ‘Paparazzi’ was a masterpiece of pop artistry, showcasing her theatrical flair and songwriting genius. The song’s dramatic narrative, combined with its infectious melody and iconic music video, solidified Gaga’s status as a pop visionary. ‘Paparazzi’ was not just a song; it was a cultural moment, pushing the boundaries of pop music and visual presentation.
16. La Roux – ‘Bulletproof’
La Roux’s ‘Bulletproof’ was a synth-pop triumph, defined by its taut production and Elly Jackson’s androgynous vocals. The song’s sleek, 80s-inspired sound and empowering lyrics made it an instant classic. ‘Bulletproof’ highlighted the resurgence of synth-pop in 2009 and established La Roux as a significant voice in contemporary electronic music.
17. The Temper Trap – ‘Sweet Disposition’
The Temper Trap’s ‘Sweet Disposition’ became an indie-pop anthem, known for its soaring chorus and cinematic feel. Its inclusion in (500) Days of Summer further amplified its emotional resonance and popularity. The song’s uplifting melody and introspective lyrics captured a sense of longing and hope, making it a soundtrack to countless coming-of-age moments in 2009.
18. Esmee Denters – ‘Outta Here’
Esmee Denters’ ‘Outta Here’ was a pop track that punched above its weight. Emerging from YouTube fame, Denters delivered a song with a surprisingly strong hook and a memorable slowed-down middle-eight, reminiscent of later hits. ‘Outta Here’ showcased the evolving landscape of music discovery in 2009 and the potential for online artists to break into the mainstream.
CD 2: Diverse Sounds and Genre Blends
1. Smashproof feat. Gin Wigmore – ‘Brother’
Smashproof’s ‘Brother’ featuring Gin Wigmore was a powerful and socially conscious track that resonated deeply in 2009. Addressing themes of brotherhood and struggle, the song’s raw emotion and timely message struck a chord with audiences. Its blend of hip-hop and rock elements, enhanced by Wigmore’s vocals, made it a standout track with lasting impact.
2. Jordin Sparks – ‘Battlefield’
Jordin Sparks’ ‘Battlefield’ exemplified the drum-heavy pop production style popularized by Ryan Tedder in 2009. While sharing sonic similarities with other hits of the era, ‘Battlefield’ showcased Sparks’ powerful vocals and a strong, anthemic chorus. Its theme of love as a battle resonated widely, contributing to its chart success and solidifying Sparks’ position in the pop landscape.
3. Soulja Boy feat. Sammie – ‘Kiss Me Thru The Phone’
Soulja Boy’s ‘Kiss Me Thru The Phone’ featuring Sammie was a novelty hit that perfectly captured the technology-driven culture of 2009. Its playful lyrics about digital communication and catchy, simplistic melody made it an instant earworm. The song’s lighthearted approach and memorable hook contributed to its unexpected success and cemented its place as a quintessential 2009 track.
4. Savage feat. Angel Dust and Baby Bash – ‘Wild Out (Chooohooo)’
Savage’s ‘Wild Out (Chooohooo)’ brought a high-energy, party vibe to the compilation. Its infectious chorus and blend of hip-hop and dance elements made it a popular track for clubs and gatherings. The inclusion of the memorable “chooohooo” hook added to its playful and energetic appeal, making it a fun and memorable track from 2009.
5. Ladyhawke – ‘My Delirium’
Ladyhawke’s ‘My Delirium’ was a standout track on Now! 31, offering a perfectly crafted slice of 80s-infused synth-pop. From the synths to the guitar riffs and Ladyhawke’s vocals, the song was drenched in 80s nostalgia while remaining relevant to contemporary audiences. Its themes of millennial anxiety and introspective lyrics added depth to its catchy pop sensibilities, making it a timeless track.
6. Katy Perry – ‘Waking Up in Vegas’
Katy Perry’s ‘Waking Up in Vegas’ showcased her pop-rock princess persona. The song’s playful lyrics about a wild Vegas adventure and catchy, upbeat melody made it a fun and memorable track. It captured Perry’s early style, blending wholesome and slightly naughty elements, and contributed to her growing pop stardom in 2009.
7. Kelly Clarkson – ‘My Life Would Suck Without You’
Kelly Clarkson’s ‘My Life Would Suck Without You’ marked her return to Max Martin-esque pop, delivering a powerful and undeniably catchy track. Clarkson’s strong vocals elevated the song, making it more than just a generic pop tune. It highlighted her ability to deliver mainstream pop hits while maintaining her signature vocal power and emotional depth.
8. Britney Spears – ‘Circus’
Britney Spears’ ‘Circus’ was a testament to her status as a pop icon. The song’s polished, expensive-sounding production and tight pop structure showcased peak Britney. While perhaps not her most groundbreaking track, ‘Circus’ exemplified the high production values and attention to detail that defined Britney’s best work, solidifying her continued relevance in pop music.
9. The Ian Carey Project – ‘Get Shaky’
The Ian Carey Project’s ‘Get Shaky’ was a quintessential club track of 2009. Its repetitive, driving beat and simple, catchy vocals were designed for dance floors. While perhaps fading from mainstream memory, ‘Get Shaky’ remains a nostalgic reminder of the electronic dance music scene that dominated clubs during that era.
10. A.R. Rahman & The Pussycat Dolls feat. Nicole Scherzinger – ‘Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)’
A.R. Rahman & The Pussycat Dolls’ ‘Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)’ was a unique cross-cultural collaboration that emerged from the success of Slumdog Millionaire. The Pussycat Dolls’ version brought a pop sensibility to the Academy Award-winning track, making it accessible to a wider audience. While a somewhat unusual pairing, the song highlighted the global reach of both Bollywood music and Western pop, and its enduring catchiness made it a memorable hit.
11. Dizzee Rascal & Armand Van Helden – ‘Bonkers’
Dizzee Rascal & Armand Van Helden’s ‘Bonkers’ was an explosive fusion of grime and house music. Its manic energy, chaotic beats, and Dizzee Rascal’s distinctive delivery made it a standout track. ‘Bonkers’ represented the innovative genre-blending happening in 2009, pushing boundaries and delivering a high-octane track that was both bonkers and brilliant.
12. Kid Cudi – ‘Day ‘N’ Nite’
Kid Cudi’s ‘Day ‘N’ Nite’ was a breakthrough track that introduced his unique blend of hip-hop and introspective lyrics to a wider audience. Its catchy melody and Cudi’s distinctive hummed vocals made it instantly recognizable. ‘Day ‘N’ Nite’ marked a significant moment for alternative hip-hop in 2009, paving the way for Cudi’s influential career.
13. Kids of 88 – ‘My House’
Kids of 88’s ‘My House’ was a New Zealand-born synth-pop gem that achieved international recognition. Its infectious energy, catchy chorus, and quirky video made it a standout track. ‘My House’ highlighted the global reach of pop music in 2009 and the ability of artists from diverse backgrounds to create universally appealing hits.
14. Pixie Lott – ‘Mama Do (Uh Oh, Uh Oh)’
Pixie Lott’s ‘Mama Do (Uh Oh, Uh Oh)’ was pure pop earworm perfection. Its incredibly catchy melody and playful lyrics made it an instant hit. The song exemplified the power of simple, well-crafted pop hooks in 2009, showcasing Lott’s potential as a pop star and delivering a track that was simply irresistible.
15. Empire of the Sun – ‘Walking on a Dream’
Empire of the Sun’s ‘Walking on a Dream’ was a visually and sonically stunning track. Its dreamy, psychedelic soundscapes and elaborate music video created a captivating and otherworldly experience. ‘Walking on a Dream’ stood out for its artistic ambition and unique aesthetic, representing a more art-pop approach within the mainstream landscape of 2009.
16. The Fray – ‘You Found Me’
The Fray’s ‘You Found Me’ was a piano-driven soft rock ballad that resonated with audiences seeking emotional depth. While fitting into a familiar genre, the song’s earnest lyrics and heartfelt delivery contributed to its widespread appeal. ‘You Found Me’ represented the continued popularity of emotive, piano-based rock in 2009.
17. James Morrison feat. Nelly Furtado – ‘Broken Strings’
James Morrison and Nelly Furtado’s ‘Broken Strings’ was a soulful duet that blended their distinct vocal styles beautifully. Furtado’s versatility was on full display as she moved seamlessly between genres. The song’s melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics about heartbreak made it a radio-friendly hit, showcasing the power of collaboration and vocal chemistry.
18. The All-American Rejects – ‘Gives You Hell’
The All-American Rejects’ ‘Gives You Hell’ was a pop-punk anthem with a defiant edge. Its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about relationship frustrations made it a hit with a broad audience. ‘Gives You Hell’ represented the enduring appeal of pop-punk energy and angsty lyrics in 2009, providing a high-energy closer to the Now! 31 compilation.
Conclusion: 2009 – A Year of Musical Diversity and Enduring Hits
Revisiting the best songs of 2009 through the lens of Now! That’s What I Call Music 31 reveals a year rich in musical diversity and innovation. From pop anthems to electronic dance tracks, rock ballads to hip-hop hybrids, 2009 offered a vibrant and eclectic mix of sounds that continue to be enjoyed today. This compilation serves as a time capsule, reminding us of the songs that defined a year and continue to evoke nostalgia and appreciation for a truly landmark era in music history. Take a moment to revisit these tracks and rediscover the magic of 2009’s best music.
