2012 was a year of diverse sounds and unforgettable hits. From pop anthems to indie rock scorchers, and from hip-hop bangers to soulful R&B grooves, the music scene in 2012 offered something for everyone. Looking back, it’s clear that 2012 produced a collection of truly Good Songs From 2012 that continue to resonate today. Let’s dive into a curated list of tracks that defined the year, exploring why these songs were not just popular, but genuinely great.
Chart-Topping Pop Sensations of 2012
The pop landscape in 2012 was dominated by infectious melodies and relatable lyrics, crafting songs that became instant classics.
Carly Rae Jepsen, ‘Call Me Maybe’
Carly Rae Jepsen performing at a concert, highlighting Call Me Maybe as one of the biggest pop hits of 2012
Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” was more than just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon. This track unexpectedly became the universal pop anthem of 2012, loved by virtually everyone. It’s a masterclass in pop songwriting, featuring a catchy disco guitar riff, a groovy Chic-inspired bassline, and lush Philly soul-style synth strings. The lyrics perfectly capture the exhilarating feeling of teenage infatuation and the power of overwhelming hormones. “Call Me Maybe” is a quintessential example of good songs from 2012 that still brings a smile to your face.
Maroon 5 feat. Wiz Khalifa, ‘Payphone’
Maroon 5 performing Payphone with Adam Levine on vocals, showcasing a popular song from 2012
“Payphone,” by Maroon 5 featuring Wiz Khalifa, initially might have raised eyebrows with its title in an age dominated by smartphones, but the song’s undeniable pop brilliance quickly silenced any doubts. This track is a burst of pure, sugary pop goodness, packed with irresistible hooks. Beneath its candy-coated surface, however, lies a surprisingly cynical message about love songs, adding an unexpected layer of depth to this chart-topping hit and solidifying its place among the good songs from 2012.
Justin Bieber, ‘Die in Your Arms’
Justin Bieber singing Die in Your Arms, a soulful R&B track from his 2012 repertoire
Justin Bieber showcased his vocal maturity in “Die in Your Arms,” arguably one of his best songs. Bieber’s distinctive vocal tone, a soulful rasp hinting at deeper emotions, is perfectly utilized in this throwback blue-eyed R&B single. The song’s vibe and lilting melody are reminiscent of prime Hall & Oates, proving Bieber’s ability to deliver mature and soulful performances. It’s a testament to his versatility and a standout among good songs from 2012.
The Wanted, ‘Glad You Came’
The Wanted performing their hit song Glad You Came, a popular teen pop track of 2012
The Wanted’s “Glad You Came” pushed the boundaries of teen pop in 2012 with its club-ready energy and slightly edgy lyrics. This track, with its undeniably catchy chorus and driving 4/4 beats, became a staple in clubs and on radio. The title’s cheeky double entendre added to its appeal, making it a guilty pleasure and a memorable addition to the list of good songs from 2012.
Icona Pop, ‘I Love It’
Icona Pop performing I Love It, an energetic Euro-pop club anthem from 2012
“I Love It” by Icona Pop was the ultimate Euro-pop club anthem of 2012. This high-energy track, driven by its raw synth-pop sound and defiant lyrics, became synonymous with letting loose and having fun. The Swedish duo’s rebellious attitude and catchy chorus resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying “I Love It” as a definitive party anthem and one of the most memorable good songs from 2012.
fun., ‘Some Nights’
The band Fun. performing Some Nights, a melancholic yet anthemic song from 2012
Following their breakout hit “We Are Young,” fun. delivered another sky-high anthem with “Some Nights.” This track, tinged with a lush melancholy, captured the angst of young adulthood with relatable lyrics about feeling underappreciated despite trying hard. The song’s martial beat and soaring vocals create an empowering feeling, making even feelings of entropy sound awesome. “Some Nights” stands out as a uniquely emotive and powerful entry among good songs from 2012.
Taylor Swift, ‘We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together’
Taylor Swift performing We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, a chart-topping breakup song from 2012
Taylor Swift’s collaboration with pop maestro Max Martin resulted in the perfect breakup anthem, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” This track is a masterclass in crafting a stadium-ready, sing-along breakup song. Swift’s signature storytelling combined with Martin’s pop sensibilities created a three-minute teen tantrum that resonated with her massive fanbase. It’s a defining moment in her career and a standout example of good songs from 2012 that dominated the charts.
Indie and Alternative Gems from 2012
Beyond the mainstream pop charts, 2012 was a fertile year for indie and alternative music, showcasing creativity and innovation.
Kacey Musgraves, ‘Merry Go Round’
Kacey Musgraves performing Merry Go Round, a critically acclaimed country song from 2012
Kacey Musgraves’ debut single, “Merry Go Round,” introduced a fresh voice to country music. This track offers a bleak yet clever perspective on small-town inertia and ennui. While the subject matter is somber, the tune itself is undeniably gorgeous, showcasing Musgraves’ sharp songwriting and unique country sound. “Merry Go Round” established her as a significant artist and remains one of the most thoughtful good songs from 2012.
Superchunk, ‘This Summer’
Superchunk performing This Summer, an energetic indie rock song from 2012
Indie rock veterans Superchunk delivered a burst of youthful energy with “This Summer.” This track perfectly captures the feeling of school’s out, teenage freedom, and beachside fun. It’s a messy, energetic anthem with sand-in-your-shoes good times, driven by well-honed guitar heat. “This Summer” is a reminder of Superchunk’s enduring relevance and a perfect indie rock addition to any list of good songs from 2012.
Tanlines, ‘All of Me’
Tanlines performing All of Me, a witty and danceable indie pop track from 2012
Tanlines’ “All of Me,” from their debut album Mixed Emotions, perfectly embodies the album’s title. Driven by singer Eric Emm’s mournful vocals, the music takes 80s dance-pop through witty twists and turns, from chant-like backing vocals to a “steel drum” synth solo. “All of Me” showcases Tanlines’ unique indie-pop sensibility and stands out as one of the more creatively arranged good songs from 2012.
Teen, ‘Better’
The band Teen performing Better, a low-fi girl group inspired indie song from 2012
Despite their name, Teen was a band of Brooklyn twentysomethings who captured adolescent spirit in “Better.” This track gives classic girl-group sounds a low-fi makeover with swirling keyboards and a muscular rhythm. The chorus, with its youthful bravado, makes “Better” a standout in the neo-girl pop scene and a charmingly confident entry among good songs from 2012.
Japandroids, ‘The House That Heaven Built’
Japandroids performing The House That Heaven Built, a fist-pumping indie rock anthem from 2012
Japandroids delivered a fist-pumping indie rock anthem with “The House That Heaven Built.” This scorcher is reminiscent of Springsteen with raw energy, featuring atomic buzzsaw chords and a catchy hook. Brian King’s vocals against a “lifeless life” create a powerful and cathartic rock experience, making it a highlight among good songs from 2012 for indie rock fans.
Grizzly Bear, ‘Yet Again’
Grizzly Bear performing Yet Again, a complex and emotional indie rock track from 2012
Grizzly Bear’s “Yet Again” encapsulates everything that makes the Brooklyn band great in five taut minutes. Ed Droste’s tender tenor shines on an eloquently yearning melody, contrasted by the band’s restless energy. The song culminates in a richly cathartic feedback freakout, showcasing their dynamic range and solidifying its place as one of the more sophisticated good songs from 2012.
Beach House, ‘Other People’
Beach House performing Other People, a minimalist and atmospheric dream pop song from 2012
Beach House continued to refine their gorgeous minimalism with “Other People.” Victoria Legrand’s cryptic vocals float over vaporous organ sounds, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The song’s subtle dynamics and ethereal beauty make it a standout example of dream-pop and a uniquely captivating entry among good songs from 2012.
The Vaccines, ‘Teenage Icon’
The Vaccines performing Teenage Icon, a self-deprecating punk-rock influenced song from 2012
The Vaccines brought their Strokes-esque tightness and self-deprecating humor to “Teenage Icon.” Justin Young’s witty lyrics about being a punk-rock poseur, combined with the band’s breakneck guitar work, create an undeniably catchy and humorous punk-rock song. It’s a clever and energetic track that earns its spot among good songs from 2012.
Alabama Shakes, ‘Hold On’
Alabama Shakes performing Hold On, a soulful rock and roll song featuring Brittany Howard in 2012
Alabama Shakes, fronted by the powerhouse Brittany Howard, delivered a soulful rock and roll gem with “Hold On.” Howard’s raw and powerful vocals, reminiscent of sixties rock and soul divas, combined with the band’s tight groove steeped in Muscle Shoals and Stax-Volt influences, create a timeless sound. “Hold On” is a battle cry against failure and a truly powerful song, making it one of the most impactful good songs from 2012.
R&B, Hip-Hop, and Electronic Beats of 2012
2012’s musical landscape was further enriched by innovative sounds in R&B, hip-hop, and electronic music, pushing genre boundaries and creating fresh sounds.
Deadmau5, ‘The Veldt’
Deadmau5 performing The Veldt, an EDM track featuring crowd-sourced lyrics from 2012
Deadmau5’s “The Veldt” was a groundbreaking track in EDM, notable for its crowd-sourced lyrics and vocals. Featuring Chris James, whom Deadmau5 found on Twitter, this song highlights the growing influence of online collaboration in music creation. The track itself blends introspective lyrics about digital life with Deadmau5’s signature electronic sound, making it an innovative and forward-thinking example of good songs from 2012.
The 2 Bears, ‘Bear Hug’
The 2 Bears performing Bear Hug, a cheerful and uplifting house track from 2012
The 2 Bears, a side project featuring Joe Goddard of Hot Chip, brought pure dancefloor joy with “Bear Hug.” This club-centric track is a celebration of full-body contact and cheesy disco lyrics set to an irresistibly rubbery house groove. It’s an uplifting and fun track designed for maximum dancefloor energy, earning its place as one of the more lighthearted and enjoyable good songs from 2012.
Danny Brown, ‘Grown Up’
Danny Brown performing Grown Up, a nostalgic and upbeat hip-hop track from 2012
Danny Brown’s “Grown Up” is a celebratory hip-hop track filled with self-satisfaction and old-school charm. Brown reflects on his journey from underdog to Detroit’s rap star, spiced with classic scratching and upbeat energy. It’s a sunny and nostalgic hip-hop trip, making it a uniquely positive and memorable entry among good songs from 2012.
Himanshu, ‘Womyn’
Himanshu, also known as Heems of Das Racist, performing Womyn, a quirky and humorous hip-hop song from 2012
Himanshu, also known as Heems from Das Racist, delivered a quirky and likable love song with “Womyn.” This track features absurd and humorous observations about women set to Bollywood-inspired boom-bap beats. It’s a foolish yet wise take on gender dynamics, making it a uniquely witty and entertaining addition to the list of good songs from 2012.
Kendrick Lamar, ‘Swimming Pools (Drank)’
Kendrick Lamar performing Swimming Pools (Drank), a woozy and introspective hip-hop track from 2012
Kendrick Lamar’s “Swimming Pools (Drank)” is a woozy and introspective meditation on alcohol consumption. This breakout track nails the inner conflict of a drunk, with verses mirroring the arc of a bender. The song’s liquid groove, flow, and chorus create a seductive yet cautionary atmosphere, making it a complex and compelling example of hip-hop and one of the most nuanced good songs from 2012.
Miguel, ‘Adorn’
Miguel performing Adorn, a smooth and sensual R&B slow jam from 2012
Miguel’s “Adorn” is a sensual and modern R&B slow jam that feels both contemporary and steeped in soul tradition. Miguel’s masterful vocals and delivery make him sound like a seasoned veteran, creating a baby-making track that is both smooth and passionate. “Adorn” established Miguel as a major R&B talent and stands out as one of the most seductive good songs from 2012.
Grimes, ‘Oblivion’
Grimes performing Oblivion, a dreamy yet dark electro-pop song from 2012
Grimes’ breakthrough single, “Oblivion,” blends dreamy electro-pop with unexpectedly dark undertones. Claire Boucher’s sugar-dust vocals over a thwunking synth loop create a seemingly innocent sound, but the lyrics reveal a darker reality about vulnerability and danger. The contrast between catchiness and lyrical content makes “Oblivion” a uniquely unsettling yet captivating track and one of the more intriguing good songs from 2012.
A$AP Rocky, ‘Goldie’
A$AP Rocky performing Goldie, a stylish and boastful hip-hop track from 2012
A$AP Rocky’s “Goldie” is a masterclass in style and swagger, delivering a boastful yet playful track about sex, drugs, and luxury. The song’s magic lies in the details – the wicked groove, punchline non sequiturs, and Rocky’s vocal delivery. “Goldie” established A$AP Rocky as a new master of style in hip-hop and is a definitively cool entry among good songs from 2012.
Skrillex feat. Sirah, ‘Bangarang’
Skrillex performing Bangarang featuring Sirah, a speaker-blasting dubstep track from 2012
Skrillex’s “Bangarang” featuring Sirah is a speaker-blasting dubstep anthem that pushed the genre into the mainstream. This track is loud, proud, and unashamedly populist, rewiring Daft Punk’s influence in a commercially explosive way. “Bangarang” is a bold and energetic statement in EDM, solidifying Skrillex’s superstar DJ status and marking itself as one of the most high-energy good songs from 2012.
Rock and Roots Music of 2012
From stadium anthems to intimate folk, 2012 also saw strong contributions from rock and roots genres, showcasing the enduring power of classic sounds.
Muse, ‘Madness’
Muse performing Madness, a stadium rock anthem with electronic influences from 2012
Muse’s “Madness” showcased the UK prog-rockers’ experimental side, drawing comparisons to Radiohead’s Kid A. This track is a pop-ready gem from their album The 2nd Law, featuring Matt Bellamy’s sweet vocals, electronic backing vocals, and deep bass wobbles. The song then explodes with a guitar riff, bringing it back to their rock roots. “Madness” is a stadium-ready anthem and a standout example of rock experimentation among good songs from 2012.
Bruce Springsteen, ‘We Take Care Of Our Own’
Bruce Springsteen performing We Take Care Of Our Own, a politically charged rock anthem from 2012
Bruce Springsteen’s “We Take Care Of Our Own” is a massive, double-edged anthem that sounds initially jingoistic but reveals itself as both critique and challenge upon closer listening. Invoking Katrina and addressing social issues, Springsteen preaches to both the choir and the unconverted with this powerful track. It’s a thought-provoking and anthemic song, making it a significant and politically charged entry among good songs from 2012.
Low Cut Connie, ‘Boozophilia’
Low Cut Connie performing Boozophilia, an old-fashioned piano-slapping rock and roll song from 2012
Low Cut Connie brought old-fashioned, piano-slapping rock & roll with a punk-rock spirit in “Boozophilia.” This track is reminiscent of Jerry Lee Lewis meets The Replacements, with a raw, energetic, and slightly chaotic vibe. It’s a fun, skunky ode to lowbrow kicks and a raucous addition to any playlist of good songs from 2012.
The Beach Boys, ‘That’s Why God Made The Radio’
The Beach Boys performing That's Why God Made The Radio, a nostalgic and harmonic pop song from 2012
The Beach Boys returned with a hit of sun-baked nostalgia in “That’s Why God Made The Radio.” This hymn to a deity who sounds like Phil Spector celebrates rock & roll and falling in love. The Beach Boys’ signature harmonies are as strong as ever, making this a feel-good, nostalgic track and a welcome return among good songs from 2012.
Dwight Yoakam, ‘A Heart Like Mine’
Dwight Yoakam performing A Heart Like Mine, a traditional country song with psychedelic elements from 2012
Dwight Yoakam collaborated with Beck on “A Heart Like Mine,” resulting in a unique blend of trad-country and Sixties garage psychedelia. This track hits hard, blending Buck Owens-style California country with unexpected psychedelic elements. It’s a bold and inspired sound, making it a standout country track and a surprising addition to the list of good songs from 2012.
Craig Finn, ‘Rented Room’
Craig Finn of The Hold Steady performing Rented Room, a narrative-driven rock song from 2012
The Hold Steady frontman Craig Finn spins a poignant narrative in “Rented Room.” This song tells the story of a down-and-out metalhead in a cheap motel after a breakup, using guitar work that tolls like a funeral bell. It’s a darkly detailed and emotionally resonant story-song, showcasing Finn’s lyrical prowess and making it a compelling and narrative-driven entry among good songs from 2012.
Neil Young and Crazy Horse, ‘Ramada Inn’
Neil Young performing Ramada Inn with Crazy Horse, an epic and lengthy rock song from 2012
Neil Young and Crazy Horse delivered an epic 17-minute track with “Ramada Inn.” This song surveys a long-term relationship facing challenges of time and drinking. It’s a sprawling and emotional journey with no easy resolution, showcasing Young’s storytelling and Crazy Horse’s raw musicality. “Ramada Inn” is a grand and ambitious track, making it a significant and epic entry among good songs from 2012.
Bob Dylan, ‘Pay in Blood’
Bob Dylan performing Pay in Blood, a vicious and politically charged folk-rock song from 2012
Bob Dylan unleashed one of his most vicious songs ever with “Pay in Blood.” This track conjures a demonic figure with switchblade-sharp guitars and politically charged lyrics. Dylan’s raw and biting delivery makes it a powerful protest song and a starkly relevant entry among good songs from 2012.
Jack White, ‘Sixteen Saltines’
Jack White performing Sixteen Saltines, an aggressive and unhinged rock song from 2012
Jack White brought his signature frisky, loud, and unhinged energy to “Sixteen Saltines.” This track features his most aggressive riff since “Seven Nation Army” and wild falsetto vocals about being under a demon lady’s spell. It’s a raw and energetic rock track, showcasing White’s untamed musical spirit and making it a thrilling and intense entry among good songs from 2012.
Bruce Springsteen, ‘Rocky Ground’
Bruce Springsteen performing Rocky Ground, a gospel-infused rock song with hip-hop elements from 2012
Bruce Springsteen’s “Rocky Ground” is a bold fusion of church hymn, folk lament, and hip-hop protest. This track assesses America’s state of equality with somber reflection, but live performances turned up the light and promise. It’s a genre-bending and socially conscious song, making it a uniquely powerful and important entry among good songs from 2012.
Mumford & Sons, ‘I Will Wait’
Mumford & Sons performing I Will Wait, a soaring folk-rock ballad from 2012
Mumford & Sons delivered a soaring folk-rock ballad with “I Will Wait.” This track showcases their Bono-meets-banjos sound and ambitious scope, exploring themes of isolation and road-weary longing. It proves that music can be soul-wrenchingly heavy without amps or power chords, making it a deeply emotional and resonant entry among good songs from 2012.
First Aid Kit, ‘Emmylou’
First Aid Kit performing Emmylou, a harmonious folk-country song from 2012
First Aid Kit, the Swedish sister duo, delivered stunning harmonies in “Emmylou.” This folk-country track name-checks country music partnerships like Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris, June Carter and Johnny Cash, celebrating American musical heritage. It’s a beautifully harmonious and reverent song, making it a charming and culturally rich entry among good songs from 2012.
Leonard Cohen, ‘Going Home’
Leonard Cohen performing Going Home, a wise and reflective folk-poetry song from 2012
Leonard Cohen, at 78, delivered a wise and reflective folk-poetry piece with “Going Home.” This song features a collect call from God, reminding Cohen it’s time to go home forever. Cohen’s voice rumbles with ancient wisdom, making it a profound and moving meditation on mortality and a deeply impactful entry among good songs from 2012.
Randy Newman, ‘I’m Dreaming’
Randy Newman performing I'm Dreaming, a satirical and deceptively breezy song from 2012
Randy Newman delivered classic satire with “I’m Dreaming.” This deceptively breezy song, in the vein of “Short People,” tackles a painful truth about a segment of the American electorate with humor and wit. It’s a very funny and thought-provoking track, making it a uniquely satirical and politically relevant entry among good songs from 2012.
Van Halen, ‘Stay Frosty’
Van Halen performing Stay Frosty, a classic rock reunion song from 2012
Van Halen’s reunion proved worthwhile with “Stay Frosty.” David Lee Roth rides the Van Halen brothers’ flashiest riffs in decades, delivering witty one-liners with strip-club Zen master wisdom. It’s a classic rock track with renewed energy and humor, making it a triumphant and entertaining return among good songs from 2012.
The Rolling Stones, ‘Doom and Gloom’
The Rolling Stones performing Doom and Gloom, an apocalyptic blues-rock song from 2012
The Rolling Stones returned after seven years with the apocalyptic blues-rock of “Doom and Gloom.” This track is “Start Me Up” stripped raw for a near-future of zombies and chaos. Mick Jagger’s delivery and the band’s raw energy make it a powerful and relevant return for the legendary band and a strong, blues-rock addition to good songs from 2012.
Beyond Genre: Unique Sounds of 2012
Some songs defy easy categorization, blending genres and creating unique sonic landscapes that defined the eclecticism of 2012.
Donald Fagen, ‘Weather in My Head’
Donald Fagen of Steely Dan performing Weather in My Head, a smooth and cynical R&B-jazz fusion song from 2012
Steely Dan’s Donald Fagen delivered smooth cynicism with “Weather in My Head.” This track features a perfectly manicured, sleek R&B groove and wry lyrics hinting at ecological optimism, contrasted with personal gloom. It’s a sophisticated and uniquely styled track, blending R&B and jazz elements and making it a uniquely styled entry among good songs from 2012.
Passion Pit, ‘Take a Walk’
Passion Pit performing Take a Walk, a synth-pop song reflecting the Great Recession from 2012
Passion Pit’s “Take a Walk” is a synth-pop nugget reflecting the anxieties of the Great Recession. Michael Angelakos sings about economic hardship with barely suppressed panic, yet the bright, upwardly mobile chorus offers a sense of hope and resilience. It’s a poignant and relevant song, showing how pop music can address serious issues and making it a socially conscious and genre-bending entry among good songs from 2012.
Fiona Apple, ‘Hot Knife’
Fiona Apple delivered an experimental and rhythmically complex track with “Hot Knife.” Over chattering drums and jazz piano, Apple scats, murmurs, and hollers with double entendres and a search for the genesis of rhythm. It’s a uniquely artistic and rhythmically driven song, showcasing Apple’s avant-garde approach and making it a creatively bold and genre-defying entry among good songs from 2012.
Psy, ‘Gangnam Style’
Psy performing Gangnam Style, a viral K-pop dance track from 2012
Psy’s “Gangnam Style” was a global phenomenon in 2012, inventing a dance craze and conquering the world. This K-pop track blew up on YouTube and became a Top 10 hit in numerous countries, showcasing a monster beat and irresistible energy. “Gangnam Style” is a cultural phenomenon and a uniquely viral and globally impactful entry among good songs from 2012.
Kitty Pryde, ‘Okay Cupid’
Kitty Pryde rapping in Okay Cupid, a lo-fi and relatable teen rap song from 2012
Kitty Pryde’s “Okay Cupid” captured the voice of suburban teen boredom with lo-fi charm. This homemade mumblecore hit went viral with its wit and mall-rat ambience, portraying teenage angst and online dating in a relatable way. It’s a uniquely authentic and DIY track, making it a culturally relevant and genre-bending entry among good songs from 2012.
Kanye West feat. Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz, ‘Mercy’
Kanye West performing Mercy with Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz, a collaborative and fun hip-hop track from 2012
Kanye West’s “Mercy,” featuring Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz, is a collaborative and unrestrained hip-hop track. This song is about Yeezy and friends having wild fun, rapping catchy nonsense over reggae samples and deep bass. It’s a pure energy track designed for bouncing and letting loose, making it a collaborative and genre-bending party anthem among good songs from 2012.
2012: A Year in Music to Remember
Looking back, 2012 was a remarkable year for music, filled with diverse genres, breakout artists, and songs that captured the zeitgeist. From pop perfection to indie innovation, and from hip-hop swagger to rock anthems, the good songs from 2012 continue to be enjoyed and rediscovered. This playlist is just a starting point, inviting you to delve deeper into the rich musical tapestry of 2012 and appreciate the enduring power of these tracks. Explore these artists and albums further to fully appreciate the musical landscape of that year.
