2010 was a seismic year in music, marked by bold artistic statements, catchy pop anthems, and the solidification of trends that continue to resonate today. From pop divas dominating the charts to indie bands breaking through and hip-hop icons reinventing themselves, the year offered a rich tapestry of sounds. It was a time when genres blurred, and artists pushed creative boundaries, delivering tracks that captured the zeitgeist and continue to be celebrated. This meticulously curated list revisits the 2010 Top Songs, spotlighting the tracks that not only defined the year but also left a lasting impact on the musical landscape.
The Definitive List of 2010’s Best Songs: A Musical Time Capsule
This list isn’t just a ranking; it’s a journey back to a year of musical innovation and unforgettable hits. From introspective ballads to high-energy dance tracks, these 2010 top songs showcase the diverse sounds that captivated audiences and critics alike. Each entry offers a snapshot of the artist’s creative peak and the cultural moment they soundtracked. Let’s dive into the sounds of a year that continues to inspire and entertain.
“We R Who We R” – Ke$ha
Ke$ha performing live, showcasing her energetic stage presence, a hallmark of her 2010 pop anthems.
Ke$ha’s “We R Who We R” stands as a testament to the power of unapologetic pop. Built upon Dr. Luke’s signature arena-electro production, the song is an anthem of self-acceptance and carefree celebration. In 2010, Ke$ha was rapidly ascending as pop’s party queen, and this track amplified her image with bombastic beats and a message of embracing individuality. It’s stupid-savvy pop elevated to an art form, perfectly capturing the zeitgeist of youthful rebellion and sonic maximalism that defined part of the 2010 top songs landscape.
“El Camino” – Elizabeth Cook
Elizabeth Cook playing guitar, embodying the Americana and country storytelling prevalent in her 2010 music.
Elizabeth Cook’s “El Camino” offers a humorous and twangy narrative, showcasing her sharp wit and country storytelling prowess. This track, with its vivid imagery of a schoolgirl falling for a mulleted charmer in an El Camino, is a delightful vignette. In a year filled with diverse sounds, Cook’s track provided a refreshing dose of Americana, proving that country music could be both hilarious and heartfelt. It’s a standout example of the genre diversity found within the 2010 top songs.
“hahahaha jk?” – Das Racist
Das Racist performing on stage, representing their unique blend of humor and insightful commentary in 2010 hip-hop.
Das Racist’s “hahahaha jk?” pushed the boundaries of joke-rap, transforming it into something more profound. This NYC trio crafted a song about transcending the limitations of being labeled as joke-rap, all while set to a perfectly stoned beat. In 2010, Das Racist was carving out a unique niche in hip-hop, blending humor with social commentary. Their inclusion in the 2010 top songs list highlights the year’s embrace of unconventional and genre-bending artists.
“Born Free” – Kid Rock
Kid Rock in a fringed jacket, embodying the classic rock anthem vibe of "Born Free" in 2010.
Kid Rock’s “Born Free” is a full-throated Seventies-rock anthem, tailor-made for cruising in a vintage Chevy or simply pumping your fist in the air. In 2010, Kid Rock tapped into classic rock nostalgia with this track, delivering a song that felt both familiar and contemporary. Its inclusion among the 2010 top songs demonstrates the enduring appeal of heartland rock and anthemic singalongs.
“Congratulations” – MGMT
MGMT performing with psychedelic visuals, reflecting the psych-pop sound of "Congratulations" in 2010.
MGMT’s “Congratulations” saw the psych-pop jokers letting down their guard and embracing a hazily pretty sound reminiscent of The Band. This track, a singalong about the disorienting experience of sudden fame, showcased a softer side of MGMT. In 2010, as MGMT navigated the pressures of their early success, “Congratulations” offered a moment of introspective beauty, solidifying their place among the 2010 top songs.
“Plundered My Soul” – The Rolling Stones
Keith Richards playing guitar, his iconic riffs defining "Plundered My Soul" and The Rolling Stones' enduring legacy in 2010.
The Rolling Stones’ “Plundered My Soul” is a masterfully reconstructed track from the Exile on Main Street sessions, proving their timeless appeal. Keith Richards’ signature guitar licks cry out across the years in this expertly crafted song. In 2010, the release of this “new” old track was a reminder of the Stones’ unparalleled legacy and their continued relevance, earning its spot among the 2010 top songs.
“Love and War” – Neil Young
Neil Young performing with acoustic guitar, highlighting the introspective and career-spanning nature of "Love and War" in 2010.
Neil Young’s “Love and War” is a deeply personal meditation on his two most profound themes, offering a career retrospective in song. With the poignant line, “I’ve been in love, and I’ve seen a lot of war,” Young grapples with his life’s major touchstones. In 2010, this track showcased Young’s enduring artistry and his ability to distill complex emotions into raw, powerful music, making it one of the most impactful 2010 top songs.
“Nothing on You” – B.o.B. feat. Bruno Mars
B.o.B. and Bruno Mars performing together, representing the pop-rap perfection of "Nothing on You" in 2010.
B.o.B.’s “Nothing on You” featuring Bruno Mars is a near-perfect pop-rap ballad, a highlight of the 2010 top songs. With B.o.B.’s smooth rhymes and Bruno Mars’s irresistible vocals, the song is a charming ode to that special someone. In 2010, this track dominated airwaves, showcasing the burgeoning talent of both artists and the seamless blend of pop and rap.
“Floating Vibes” – Surfer Blood
Surfer Blood performing live, capturing the surf rock and 90s alt-rock fusion of "Floating Vibes" in 2010.
Surfer Blood’s “Floating Vibes” ingeniously combines Beach Boys-style surf tunes with Nineties alt-rock riffs. This Florida band tapped into a unique sonic space, blending sunny melodies with alternative edge. In 2010, “Floating Vibes” was a refreshing and unexpected hit, proving that innovation could still be found by merging seemingly disparate genres, earning its place among the 2010 top songs.
“In Every Direction” – Junip
José González performing with Junip, highlighting the folk swirl and increased volume of "In Every Direction" in 2010.
Junip’s “In Every Direction” features José González, known for his pale vocals, kicking up the volume for a supremely pretty folk swirl. This track showcased a more dynamic and expansive sound for González. In 2010, Junip’s gentle yet powerful sound resonated, demonstrating the continued appeal of folk-infused indie music and securing its spot within the 2010 top songs.
“Power” – Kanye West
Kanye West performing with intensity, foreshadowing the "crazy" and powerful nature of "Power" and "Twisted Fantasy" in 2010.
Kanye West’s “Power” was the first explosive sign of the sonic madness to come with My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. Sampling King Crimson and unleashing a schizoid energy, Kanye delivered a track that was both audacious and brilliant. In 2010, “Power” was a statement of intent, announcing Kanye’s creative resurgence and dominance, cementing its status as one of the 2010 top songs.
“The Diamond Church Street Choir” – The Gaslight Anthem
Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem performing with passion, reflecting the Springsteen-esque and emo influences in "The Diamond Church Street Choir" in 2010.
The Gaslight Anthem’s “The Diamond Church Street Choir” masterfully triangulates doo-wop, Bruce Springsteen, and New Jersey emo. Brian Fallon’s songwriting shines in this finger-snapping ode to basement gigs and lost love. In 2010, The Gaslight Anthem captured a nostalgic yet contemporary rock sound, appealing to fans of both classic and modern rock, making it a standout among the 2010 top songs.
“The Mystery Zone” – Spoon
Spoon performing their minimalist rock, emphasizing the mesmerizing guitar groove of "The Mystery Zone" in 2010.
Spoon’s “The Mystery Zone” boasts 2010’s most mesmerizing guitar groove – a dark, dubby burner with lyrics about basement gigs and, again, lost love, echoing themes of the year. Spoon’s minimalist yet powerful sound was on full display. In 2010, this track solidified Spoon’s reputation for crafting incredibly catchy and subtly complex rock songs, earning its place in the list of 2010 top songs.
“Beamer, Benz, or Bentley” – Lloyd Banks feat. Juelz Santana
Lloyd Banks and Juelz Santana performing together, representing the raw energy and luxury rap themes of "Beamer, Benz, or Bentley" in 2010.
Lloyd Banks’ “Beamer, Benz, or Bentley” featuring Juelz Santana is a raw and unapologetic celebration of luxury and street swagger. These two New York badasses teamed up over one of the year’s grittiest beats. In 2010, this track was a staple in hip-hop circles, embodying the aspirational and often extravagant themes prevalent in rap music, making it a key track in the 2010 top songs of the year.
“Up All Night” – Drake feat. Nicki Minaj
Drake and Nicki Minaj performing on stage, highlighting the collaborative energy and driving rhythm of "Up All Night" in 2010.
Drake’s “Up All Night” featuring Nicki Minaj is one of the year’s great driving songs, fueled by Nicki Minaj’s unforgettable line about “doing doughnuts in a six-speed.” This collaboration showcased the undeniable chemistry between two of hip-hop’s biggest rising stars. In 2010, “Up All Night” captured the energy of late-night adventures and cemented Drake and Nicki Minaj’s positions as major forces in music, rightfully earning its place in the 2010 top songs.
“Paradise Circus” – Massive Attack feat. Hope Sandoval
Hope Sandoval performing with a microphone, her melancholic vocals defining the narcotic ballad "Paradise Circus" by Massive Attack in 2010.
Massive Attack’s “Paradise Circus” featuring Hope Sandoval is a narcotic ballad that is both surreal and unnervingly erotic. Hope Sandoval’s signature dreamy vocals perfectly complement Massive Attack’s trip-hop soundscapes. In 2010, this track was a standout for its atmospheric depth and haunting beauty, showcasing the enduring appeal of trip-hop and its place within the diverse landscape of 2010 top songs.
“Stylo” – Gorillaz feat. Mos Def and Bobby Womack
Gorillaz animated characters with Bobby Womack and Mos Def, representing the cartoonish yet soulful disco jam "Stylo" in 2010.
Gorillaz’s “Stylo” featuring Mos Def and Bobby Womack is a sexy disco jam that could make Donna Summer sigh with pleasure. With an unstoppable synth-bass line and stellar guest vocals, Gorillaz crafted a track that was both playful and irresistibly groovy. In 2010, “Stylo” showcased Gorillaz’s eclectic and genre-bending approach to music, making it a unique and memorable entry in the 2010 top songs.
“Post Acid” – Wavves
Wavves performing with a lo-fi aesthetic, reflecting the psychedelic punk nugget "Post Acid" in 2010.
Wavves’ “Post Acid” is a sweetly psychedelic punk nugget, reminiscent of Buzzcocks meets acid-damaged beach rock. This San Diego trio delivered a track that was both catchy and delightfully raw. In 2010, Wavves contributed to the lo-fi and garage rock resurgence, with “Post Acid” being a standout example of their breezy yet edgy sound, earning its spot among the 2010 top songs.
“Enter the Ninja” – Die Antwoord
Die Antwoord in their signature zef style, representing the freaky and controversial rap song "Enter the Ninja" in 2010.
Die Antwoord’s “Enter the Ninja” was arguably the year’s freakiest rap song. This South African trio mixed machine-gun flows with warped hooks, creating a sound that was both bizarre and captivating, often compared to Eminem on mescaline. In 2010, Die Antwoord burst onto the scene with a shockwave, challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of rap, making “Enter the Ninja” a truly unforgettable and boundary-pushing addition to the 2010 top songs.
“I’m New Here” – Gil Scott-Heron
Gil Scott-Heron performing with spoken word intensity, embodying the dark and deep blues of "I'm New Here" in 2010.
Gil Scott-Heron’s “I’m New Here” saw the long-lost Seventies rap pioneer returning with a haunting acoustic rendition of a Smog ballad. He transformed indie-rock melancholy into the darkest, deepest country blues. In 2010, Scott-Heron’s return was a poignant reminder of his pioneering spirit and enduring artistry, with “I’m New Here” showcasing his raw emotional depth and securing its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Nothing but the Whole Wide World” – Jakob Dylan
Jakob Dylan performing with a folk-rock vibe, reflecting the roots-folk lullaby "Nothing but the Whole Wide World" in 2010.
Jakob Dylan’s “Nothing but the Whole Wide World” is a roots-folk lullaby with a melody so hushed and beautiful, it’s said James Taylor would envy it. Dylan delivered a tender and introspective track. In 2010, this song highlighted Dylan’s understated songwriting talent and his ability to craft timeless melodies, making it a quietly powerful entry in the 2010 top songs.
“The Trip to Pirate’s Cove” – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty performing with The Heartbreakers, embodying the classic road story vibe of "The Trip to Pirate's Cove" in 2010.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ “The Trip to Pirate’s Cove” is a classic Petty road story, complete with black-ice organ and sneering guitar. This track is quintessential Petty, blending storytelling with rock and roll swagger. In 2010, it served as a reminder of Petty’s consistent ability to deliver timeless rock anthems, cementing its place amongst the 2010 top songs.
“Laredo” – Band of Horses
Band of Horses performing with their signature shimmering guitars, reflecting the country-rock ballad "Laredo" in 2010.
Band of Horses’ “Laredo” is a country-rock ballad about needing to escape, built around guitars that shimmer for miles. This track captures a sense of yearning and wide-open spaces. In 2010, “Laredo” showcased Band of Horses’ ability to craft expansive and emotionally resonant rock songs, making it a standout track and a key inclusion in the 2010 top songs.
“Bloodbuzz Ohio” – The National
Matt Berninger of The National performing with emotional intensity, embodying the seductive melancholy of "Bloodbuzz Ohio" in 2010.
The National’s “Bloodbuzz Ohio” features Matt Berninger crooning with such seductive melancholy about debt and longing that you’ll want to toss him a few bucks. The track’s brooding intensity is classic National. In 2010, “Bloodbuzz Ohio” further solidified The National’s status as masters of introspective and emotionally charged indie rock, making it a defining song among the 2010 top songs.
“Dancing on My Own” – Robyn
Robyn performing with energetic dance moves, embodying the sparkling pop and solo freakout anthem "Dancing on My Own" in 2010.
Robyn’s “Dancing on My Own” is a masterclass in turning heartbreak into sparkling pop. Spotting her beloved with another girl, Robyn transforms sadness into an anthem for solo dance-floor catharsis. In 2010, “Dancing on My Own” became an instant classic, celebrated for its emotional honesty and infectious beat, solidifying Robyn’s position as a pop innovator and making it one of the most celebrated 2010 top songs.
“Did It On’em” – Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj striking a bold pose, representing the synapse-butchering and audacious energy of "Did It On'em" in 2010.
Nicki Minaj’s “Did It On’em” is a hazy, synapse-butchering throwdown, showcasing her fierce and unfiltered persona. With lines like “If I had a dick, I would pull it out and piss on ’em,” Nicki delivered a track that was both shocking and undeniably powerful. In 2010, “Did It On’em” was a bold statement of Minaj’s arrival as a major force in rap, pushing boundaries and securing its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Not Afraid” – Eminem
Eminem rapping with intensity, reflecting the sobriety and inspiring message of "Not Afraid" in 2010.
Eminem’s “Not Afraid” is a deeply personal and inspiring track where he opens up about sobriety, addresses criticism of his previous album, and pledges to be a better father. In 2010, “Not Afraid” resonated deeply with listeners, showcasing Eminem’s vulnerability and resilience, becoming his most inspiring song to date and a defining track in the 2010 top songs.
“Macon” – Jamey Johnson
Jamey Johnson performing with a Southern rock vibe, embodying the rough diamond of "Macon" in 2010.
Jamey Johnson’s “Macon” is a slow-rolling, rough diamond of Seventies Southern rock. Johnson’s deep voice and classic rock instrumentation create a timeless sound. In 2010, “Macon” was a standout for its authenticity and throwback vibe, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Southern rock and earning its place among the 2010 top songs.
“B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)” – Rick Ross feat. Styles P
Rick Ross performing with opulent style, representing the drug-lord fantasia of "B.M.F." in 2010.
Rick Ross’s “B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)” featuring Styles P is a lush drug-lord fantasia where Ross flows like “the Barry White of white powder.” The track is opulent, grandiose, and undeniably catchy. In 2010, “B.M.F.” became a hip-hop anthem, showcasing Ross’s larger-than-life persona and solidifying its spot within the 2010 top songs.
“Infinity Guitars” – Sleigh Bells
Sleigh Bells performing with high energy, reflecting the girl-group meets noise-pop sound of "Infinity Guitars" in 2010.
Sleigh Bells’ “Infinity Guitars” is a classic girl-group tune set against skull-rattling guitar fuzz that “hurts so good.” This track perfectly blended sweet melodies with abrasive noise. In 2010, Sleigh Bells burst onto the indie scene with a unique and impactful sound, making “Infinity Guitars” an instant indie anthem and a key track in the 2010 top songs.
“Boyfriend” – Best Coast
Bethany Cosentino of Best Coast performing with a stoner-girl vibe, reflecting the lonely summer heartbreaker "Boyfriend" in 2010.
Best Coast’s “Boyfriend” is a heartbreaker about a lonely summer, imagining “Brian Wilson as a sensitive stoner girl.” Bethany Cosentino’s songwriting captured a specific kind of Californian ennui with catchy melodies. In 2010, “Boyfriend” became an indie darling, perfectly encapsulating a lo-fi, sun-drenched sound and securing its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Your Hands (Together)” – The New Pornographers
The New Pornographers harmonizing on stage, reflecting the bizarro pop and classic rock guitars of "Your Hands (Together)" in 2010.
The New Pornographers’ “Your Hands (Together)” sees the indie-rock collective harmonizing about silver bullets and piling on classic-rock guitars. The result is bizarro pop that’s hard to shake. In 2010, The New Pornographers continued to deliver their signature complex and catchy indie pop, with “Your Hands (Together)” being a standout example and a key track in the 2010 top songs.
“Scissor Runner” – Jenny and Johnny
Jenny Lewis and Johnathan Rice of Jenny and Johnny performing with power pop energy, reflecting the George Burns and Gracie Allen dynamic of "Scissor Runner" in 2010.
Jenny and Johnny’s “Scissor Runner” is where power pop finds its own George Burns and Gracie Allen. With witty lyrics and catchy melodies, the duo created a charming and memorable track. In 2010, Jenny and Johnny showcased their playful yet sharp songwriting, with “Scissor Runner” being a standout example of their power pop sensibilities and a notable entry in the 2010 top songs.
“I Can Change” – LCD Soundsystem
James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem performing with emotive vocals, embodying the Depeche Mode and Smiths influences in "I Can Change" in 2010.
LCD Soundsystem’s “I Can Change” is described as the year’s best Depeche Mode song and also its best Smiths song. James Murphy showcases his falsetto while expressing pain with wild humor. In 2010, “I Can Change” was a highlight from LCD Soundsystem’s acclaimed album, celebrated for its emotional depth and danceable melancholy, making it a crucial track in the 2010 top songs.
“Coffee Spoon” – Cold War Kids
Cold War Kids performing with soulful rock energy, reflecting the high-life hallucination of "Coffee Spoon" in 2010.
Cold War Kids’ “Coffee Spoon” sees the SoCal band hallucinating about the high life, turning “ascetics wring their hands” into a killer chorus. The track blends soulful vocals with driving rock instrumentation. In 2010, “Coffee Spoon” showcased Cold War Kids’ unique blend of indie rock and soul, earning its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Over” – Drake
Drake rapping with confidence, embodying the stardom themes and irresistible beat of "Over" in 2010.
Drake’s “Over” finds him rhyming about the terrifying and awesome aspects of stardom. With a huge, clattering beat, the track is undeniably irresistible. In 2010, “Over” was a key track in Drake’s ascent to superstardom, capturing his introspective yet confident persona and securing its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Shutterbugg” – Big Boi feat. Cutty
Big Boi performing with electro party energy, reflecting the ghetto-tech bass line of "Shutterbugg" in 2010.
Big Boi’s “Shutterbugg” featuring Cutty is an electro party starter, coaxing dancers to the floor with a nasty ghetto-tech bass line. OutKast’s brawnier half delivered a track that was both funky and futuristic. In 2010, “Shutterbugg” showcased Big Boi’s solo prowess and his ability to innovate within hip-hop and electronic music, making it a standout in the 2010 top songs.
“Hustle and Cuss” – The Dead Weather
Alison Mosshart and Jack White of The Dead Weather performing with raw energy, embodying the dirtiest riff of "Hustle and Cuss" in 2010.
The Dead Weather’s “Hustle and Cuss” features Jack White and Alison Mosshart howling over what’s described as the dirtiest riff of the year, generating ungodly amounts of sexual electricity. The track is raw, bluesy, and intensely energetic. In 2010, “Hustle and Cuss” showcased The Dead Weather’s raw power and chemistry, delivering a rock track that was both primal and captivating, making it a powerful entry among the 2010 top songs.
“Bang Bang Bang” – Mark Ronson and the Business International feat. Q-Tip and MNDR
Mark Ronson with Q-Tip and MNDR, representing the synth-pop fire starter "Bang Bang Bang" in 2010.
Mark Ronson and the Business International’s “Bang Bang Bang” featuring Q-Tip and MNDR turns a French kiddie tune into a Technicolor hook on this synth-pop fire starter. Ronson’s production skills shine in this catchy and vibrant track. In 2010, “Bang Bang Bang” was a standout for its infectious energy and clever sampling, showcasing Ronson’s ability to blend genres and create hits, earning its place in the 2010 top songs.
“Everlasting Light” – The Black Keys
Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys performing with blues-rock passion, embodying the steady groove of "Everlasting Light" in 2010.
The Black Keys’ “Everlasting Light” is a steady-grooving blues-rock ballad, with Dan Auerbach’s falsetto floating over craggy funk like “some beautiful ghost.” The track showcases The Black Keys’ signature blend of blues and rock. In 2010, “Everlasting Light” was a highlight from their breakthrough album, solidifying their status as major players in rock music and earning its spot among the 2010 top songs.
“Monster” – Kanye West feat. Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj and Bon Iver
Kanye West, Jay-Z, Rick Ross, and Nicki Minaj performing together, representing the star-studded and id-fest "Monster" in 2010.
Kanye West’s “Monster” featuring Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, and Bon Iver is a rumbling id-fest, notable for Nicki Minaj’s cameo, hailed as “the cameo of the year.” Her verse is legendary. In 2010, “Monster” was a defining track from My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, showcasing Kanye’s ability to curate epic collaborations and push creative boundaries, making it a monumental entry in the 2010 top songs.
“The Ghost Inside” – Broken Bells
James Mercer of Broken Bells performing with Danger Mouse, reflecting the noirish jam "The Ghost Inside" in 2010.
Broken Bells’ “The Ghost Inside” is a noirish jam mixing Danger Mouse’s steely funk with a creepily addictive chorus from The Shins’ James Mercer. The collaboration created a unique and compelling sound. In 2010, “The Ghost Inside” was a standout for its atmospheric depth and catchy melodies, showcasing the combined talents of Danger Mouse and James Mercer and earning its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Tightrope” – Janelle Monáe feat. Big Boi
Janelle Monáe performing with theatrical flair, embodying the ferocious and genre-mashing "Tightrope" in 2010.
Janelle Monáe’s “Tightrope” featuring Big Boi is a ferocious, horn-splashed burner that mashes up Cab Calloway, hip-hop, James Brown, and art-pop wackiness. Monáe’s unique artistry was on full display. In 2010, “Tightrope” was a breakout track for Monáe, showcasing her genre-bending creativity and electrifying stage presence, making it a truly unique and celebrated entry in the 2010 top songs.
“White Sky” – Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend performing with energetic indie pop, reflecting the joyful and African-flavored guitars of "White Sky" in 2010.
Vampire Weekend’s “White Sky” is a burst of synth foam, perky digital rhythms, joyful whoops, and African-flavored guitars. It’s described as “the sound of a young band discovering how much is possible.” In 2010, “White Sky” showcased Vampire Weekend’s evolving sound and their ability to blend global influences into infectious indie pop, earning its spot among the 2010 top songs.
“You Are Not Alone” – Mavis Staples
Mavis Staples performing with soulful assurance, embodying the modern hymn "You Are Not Alone" in 2010.
Mavis Staples’ “You Are Not Alone” is a modern hymn, written by Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy and sung with maternal assurance by the voice that once told you to “Respect Yourself.” Staples’s iconic voice brings immense comfort and power to the song. In 2010, “You Are Not Alone” was a poignant and uplifting track, showcasing Staples’s enduring artistry and the song’s universal message, making it a deeply impactful entry in the 2010 top songs.
“We Used to Wait” – Arcade Fire
Win Butler of Arcade Fire performing with orchestral rock intensity, reflecting the high anxiety yet sublime sound of "We Used to Wait" in 2010.
Arcade Fire’s “We Used to Wait” captures Win Butler singing about changing times with a sense of being “spooked and sleepless.” The band’s orchestral-rock wallop makes “high anxiety sound almost sublime.” In 2010, “We Used to Wait” showcased Arcade Fire’s signature epic and emotionally resonant sound, capturing the anxieties of the modern age and securing its place among the 2010 top songs.
“Teenage Dream” – Katy Perry
Katy Perry performing with vibrant pop energy, embodying the catchy electro-pop singalong "Teenage Dream" in 2010.
Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream” co-written by Max Martin and Dr. Luke, is described as “2010’s catchiest tune,” a buoyant electro-pop singalong. Perry’s vocal delivery and the song’s infectious melody made it a global hit. In 2010, “Teenage Dream” was the quintessential pop anthem, dominating charts and solidifying Katy Perry’s status as a pop superstar, making it undeniably one of the 2010 top songs.
“Soldier of Love” – Sade
Sade performing with cool elegance, embodying the quiet storm and acid-damaged riffs of "Soldier of Love" in 2010.
Sade’s “Soldier of Love” marked her return after years of absence, proving her timeless appeal. Mixing “quiet-storm synths with acid-damaged riffs straight out of TV on the Radio’s playbook,” the track is both classic and contemporary Sade. In 2010, “Soldier of Love” was a welcome return for Sade, showcasing her unique sound and enduring allure, earning its place among the 2010 top songs.
“F**k You” – Cee Lo Green
Cee Lo Green performing with soulful and humorous energy, embodying the Motown-style anthem "F**k You" in 2010.
Cee Lo Green’s “F**k You” was a cultural phenomenon, not just for its title but for its humor and panache. Despite bummed-out lyrics, the Motown-style beat is DayGlo-bright, and Cee Lo’s delivery is both soulful and witty. In 2010, “F**k You” was everywhere, celebrated for its clever lyrics, retro vibe, and Cee Lo’s undeniable charisma, making it one of the most iconic 2010 top songs.
“Runaway” – Kanye West feat. Pusha T
Kanye West performing with dark and twisted genius, embodying the epic and gorgeous "Runaway" in 2010.
Kanye West’s “Runaway” featuring Pusha T is a nine-minute meditation on romantic failure and public infamy, a response to the Taylor Swift affair that became much more. With its “huge, eerie beat out of thunderous drums and plinking piano” and the unforgettable “toast for the douchebags” refrain, “Runaway” was a masterpiece. In 2010, “Runaway” was a cultural reset, celebrated for its ambition, emotional depth, and Kanye’s artistic genius, undeniably crowning it as one of the most significant 2010 top songs, and perhaps the defining song of the year.
2010 Top Songs: A Year of Musical Innovation
The 2010 top songs list is a testament to a year of exceptional musical diversity and creativity. From pop to rock, hip-hop to indie, 2010 delivered a plethora of tracks that resonated with audiences and critics alike. These songs not only topped charts but also pushed boundaries, solidified trends, and continue to be enjoyed today, proving the lasting power of great music from a truly remarkable year.
