Dua Lipa performing on stage
Dua Lipa has solidified her place as a global pop icon, captivating audiences worldwide with her distinctive voice, infectious energy, and chart-topping hits. From her early beginnings to headlining stadium tours, Dua Lipa’s journey is a testament to her talent and relentless drive. With the announcement of new UK dates for her highly anticipated 2025 tour, it’s the perfect time to delve into the discography that has made her a household name. This ranking celebrates 11 of her best songs, offering both longtime fans and new listeners a guide to the essential tracks that define Dua Lipa’s remarkable career.
Top Dua Lipa Songs – Ranked
11. ‘Blow Your Mind (Mwah)’ (Blow Your Mind (Mwah), 2016)
‘Blow Your Mind (Mwah)’ marked Dua Lipa’s breakthrough into the US market, showcasing her confident and sassy persona. This track is pure pop fun, driven by a catchy melody and that iconic kiss sound effect. While not the deepest lyrically, its unapologetic attitude and infectious energy are undeniable. It’s a perfect example of early Dua Lipa, brimming with youthful confidence and setting the stage for her future global domination.
10. ‘Pretty Please’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
‘Pretty Please’ dives into the relatable struggle of wanting someone intensely while trying to maintain a cool exterior. This Future Nostalgia gem is a masterclass in funk-infused pop production. With its playful use of cowbells, ticking clock sounds, and vibrant tambourines, the track builds tension and release expertly. The near-stop before the chorus is a brilliant production choice, amplifying the song’s irresistible allure and making it a standout on an album packed with hits.
9. ‘Hotter Than Hell’ (Dua Lipa, 2017)
‘Hotter Than Hell’ is the song that ignited Dua Lipa’s career, securing her major label deal and launching her into the spotlight. While she has since released more nuanced and sophisticated tracks, ‘Hotter Than Hell’ remains a crucial part of her story. Its tropical-tinged production, seductive lyrics about reclaiming power in a toxic relationship, and powerful chorus featuring her signature raspy vocals made it an instant hit. This track is a testament to the raw star power that was evident from the beginning of Dua Lipa’s journey.
8. ‘New Rules’ (Dua Lipa, 2017)
‘New Rules’ became a global anthem for moving on from heartbreak, solidifying Dua Lipa’s status as a pop force. Initially written for Little Mix, it’s hard to imagine this UK number one hit belonging to anyone else. The song’s genius lies in its simple yet powerful message: practical advice for resisting the urge to return to a toxic ex. The iconic music video, featuring the “pencil sharpener dance,” further amplified its impact, turning ‘New Rules’ into a cultural phenomenon and a career-defining moment for Dua Lipa.
7. ‘We’re Good’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
‘We’re Good’ offers a refreshing change of pace within the high-energy Future Nostalgia album. Blending reggae and tropical vibes, this track slows things down and showcases Dua Lipa’s versatility. While still maintaining a polished production, ‘We’re Good’ proves that Dua Lipa can create a compelling song without relying solely on fast tempos and dance breaks. Its laid-back groove and slightly provocative lyrics demonstrate her willingness to explore different sonic landscapes and lyrical themes, further solidifying her artistic range.
6. ‘Don’t Start Now’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
Released at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, ‘Don’t Start Now’ provided a much-needed dose of nu-disco energy during a challenging time. As the lead single from Future Nostalgia, it perfectly set the tone for the album’s retro-futuristic sound. This track became an instant mood booster, soundtracking home workouts and offering a sense of escapism when it was needed most. Its exclusion from the top five on this list speaks volumes about the overall quality and strength of the Future Nostalgia album, a rare achievement in modern pop music.
5. ‘Break My Heart’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
Another Future Nostalgia highlight, ‘Break My Heart’ continues the album’s exploration of funk and disco influences. Built around an interpolation of the iconic riff from INXS’s ‘I Need You Tonight,’ the song creates a captivating blend of retro and futuristic sounds. The juxtaposition of the familiar riff with modern synths and slick production creates a unique tension, making ‘Break My Heart’ an irresistible and instantly recognizable track that demands you to move.
4. ‘IDGAF’ (Dua Lipa, 2017)
‘IDGAF’ stands out as the best track from Dua Lipa’s debut album, showcasing her growth and confidence. Originally written by MNEK, Dua Lipa reworked it to align with her personal experiences and perspective. The result is a powerful anthem of self-assurance and indifference towards a past relationship. Serving as a confident response to the ex from ‘New Rules,’ ‘IDGAF’ is a bold declaration of independence, driven by strong drums and Dua Lipa’s assertive vocals.
3. ‘Levitating’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
‘Levitating’ is a sonic adventure, blending 70s disco elements with futuristic production. Featuring layers of synths, remastered vintage instruments, and unique sound effects, the track creates a rich and immersive soundscape. Dua Lipa’s vocal performance is equally dynamic, showcasing her range with rap-like tempos and soaring high notes. ‘Levitating’ is a testament to Dua Lipa’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries, resulting in a truly unique and exhilarating pop experience.
2. ‘Love Again’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
‘Love Again’ is arguably one of the most underrated gems in Dua Lipa’s discography. Despite only reaching number 51 in the UK charts, this track is a masterclass in pop songwriting and production. Featuring dramatic strings, a sample from the 1930s jazz classic ‘My Woman,’ and an ABBA-esque disco hook, ‘Love Again’ is a vibrant and uplifting celebration of finding love after heartbreak. Its infectious energy and feel-good vibes make it a clear runner-up for the top spot.
1. ‘Physical’ (Future Nostalgia, 2020)
‘Physical’ claims the top spot as Dua Lipa’s best song, a bold and exhilarating nu-disco anthem. Drawing inspiration from Olivia Newton-John, ‘Flashdance,’ and even incorporating a Persian flute sample, ‘Physical’ is a melting pot of influences that come together perfectly. Moving away from breakup anthems, Dua Lipa embraces themes of empowerment and passionate connection, delivered with infectious energy and a call to action: “Let’s get physical.” This track cemented Dua Lipa as the queen of nu-disco, transforming the pop landscape and solidifying her status as a global superstar.
Dua Lipa in neon spandex in the Physical music video
Dua Lipa’s impressive catalog of songs continues to grow, showcasing her evolution as an artist and her unwavering commitment to creating captivating pop music. From her early hits to the Future Nostalgia era and beyond, her music consistently delivers infectious beats, relatable lyrics, and a powerful message of confidence and self-expression. As she embarks on her 2025 tour, now is the perfect time to revisit these standout tracks and appreciate the artistry that makes Dua Lipa one of the leading voices in pop music today.
