Ten years ago, on July 23, 2010, the formation of One Direction on “The X Factor U.K.” marked the beginning of a global phenomenon. Simon Cowell’s decision to group five solo hopefuls – Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik – into a boy band would change pop music history. Despite finishing third on the competition, One Direction achieved unprecedented success, captivating millions worldwide with their infectious pop anthems. They filled stadiums, dominated charts with hits like “Story of My Life,” “Best Song Ever,” and “Drag Me Down,” and became a defining voice of a generation. While their journey had its bumps, including Zayn Malik’s departure in 2015 and the band’s subsequent hiatus, their music continues to resonate with fans. As we celebrate their 10th anniversary, Directioners worldwide still hope for a reunion while enjoying the members’ successful solo careers. To commemorate this milestone, we’re revisiting their discography to definitively rank their 10 best songs, celebrating the magic of 1D.
10. “Little White Lies” (from “Midnight Memories,” 2013)
Venturing into slightly different sonic territory, “Little White Lies” showcases One Direction’s willingness to experiment. This track from “Midnight Memories” flirts with dubstep influences, setting it apart from their typical pop-rock sound. Its unique production and edgier vibe make it a refreshing and memorable song within their catalog, proving their versatility and appeal to a broad audience seeking diverse sounds even within a pop framework.
9. “Night Changes” (from “Four,” 2014)
“Night Changes” is a quintessential One Direction romantic ballad, imbued with a sense of maturity and reflection. From the album “Four,” this smooth and heartfelt track speaks of growing up and the enduring nature of love. Notably, it was the final music video to feature Zayn Malik, adding an unintended layer of poignancy to the lyrics about time and change, and making it a bittersweet favorite for many fans reflecting on the band’s journey.
8. “History” (from “Made in the A.M.,” 2015)
Serving as a soulful and nostalgic look back, “History” is a powerful ode to brotherhood and shared experiences. Released on “Made in the A.M.,” their last album before hiatus, the song carries an emotional weight, amplified by the context of their decade anniversary. Whether you’re a long-time Directioner or a new listener, the universal themes of friendship and memories in “History” are undeniably moving, making it a standout track that encapsulates the band’s journey together.
7. “She’s Not Afraid” (from “Take Me Home,” 2012)
“She’s Not Afraid” is an energetic and infectious pop anthem that exemplifies One Direction’s youthful exuberance. Featured as a bonus track on the deluxe edition of “Take Me Home,” this song is a puzzlingly underrated gem. Its catchy melody and punchy rhythm, combined with lyrics about confident admiration, make it an instant mood-booster and a testament to their ability to craft irresistible pop hooks that resonate with a young and vibrant fanbase.
6. “Change Your Ticket” (from “Four,” 2014)
Another gem from “Four” that deserved more recognition is “Change Your Ticket.” This bonus track shines with Liam Payne taking the vocal lead, showcasing his charisma and vocal prowess. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics about spontaneity and romance make it an instantly likeable and radio-ready tune, highlighting the depth of quality within One Direction’s album tracks beyond their singles.
5. “Long Way Down” (from “Made in the A.M.,” 2015)
“Made in the A.M.” marked a period of growth in One Direction’s songwriting, and “Long Way Down” is a prime example. This reflective track delves into the complexities of fame, exploring both the highs and lows with a newfound maturity and introspection. The lyrics offer a glimpse into the band’s personal experiences, adding depth and emotional resonance that connected with fans on a deeper level as they navigated their own lives alongside the band’s evolving journey.
4. “Stockholm Syndrome” (from “Four,” 2014)
Co-written by Harry Styles, “Stockholm Syndrome” reveals a playful and slightly absurd side to One Direction. This track from “Four” is suggestively themed around being willingly “trapped” in a relationship, showcasing Styles’ penchant for quirky and engaging lyrical concepts. Its catchy melody and slightly darker undertones make it a standout example of the band’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with more nuanced and mature themes.
3. “Perfect” (from “Made in the A.M.,” 2015)
“Perfect” is an ’80s-inspired anthem from “Made in the A.M.” that is tailor-made for singalongs. While speculation always surrounded whether it was a response to Taylor Swift’s songs, its universal appeal is undeniable. This track channels a classic pop-rock vibe, making it perfect for car rides with windows down and creating unforgettable moments. Its catchy chorus and energetic rhythm cemented its place as a fan favorite and a testament to their ability to craft timeless pop songs.
2. “Once in a Lifetime” (from “Four,” 2014)
Arguably the most vocally stunning song in One Direction’s discography, “Once in a Lifetime” is a tender and wistful ballad from “Four.” It beautifully showcases the harmonies of all the members, particularly on the haunting chorus. The song’s emotional depth and delicate melody create a captivating listening experience, highlighting the band’s vocal talents and their ability to deliver heartfelt performances that resonated deeply with their audience.
1. “What Makes You Beautiful” (from “Up All Night,” 2012)
“What Makes You Beautiful,” from their debut album “Up All Night,” is the quintessential One Direction hit that launched them into superstardom. This puppy-love anthem is pure, unadulterated joy packed into 3 minutes and 19 seconds. With its incredibly catchy hook and endearingly earnest lyrics about inner beauty, it became an instant classic. While they cheekily dubbed “Best Song Ever” their best in 2013, “What Makes You Beautiful” remains their defining track and a testament to the magic of their early sound that captured hearts worldwide, making it the ultimate 1D best song.
