2012 was a dynamic year in music, delivering a diverse range of hits that resonated across genres and audiences. From pop anthems to indie rock scorchers, and from introspective R&B to global sensations, the year’s top songs captured the zeitgeist and continue to be celebrated today. This curated list, originally featured in Rolling Stone, highlights some of the best tracks from 2012, offering a snapshot of the musical landscape of that year. Let’s dive into the sounds that defined 2012 and explore why these songs earned their place on the top charts.
Carly Rae Jepsen, ‘Call Me Maybe’
Carly Rae Jepsen Call Me Maybe 2012 top song
Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” emerged as an unexpected global phenomenon in 2012. This infectious pop gem was universally adored, and for good reason. It’s a perfectly crafted pop song with elements of disco guitar, a Chic-esque bassline, Philly soul-inspired synth strings, all culminating in a brilliant ode to the exhilarating, sometimes overwhelming, power of teenage infatuation. It was the kind of song that was impossible to escape – in the best way possible – and its ubiquity was a testament to its undeniable charm and catchy hooks. “Call Me Maybe” remains a defining track of 2012 and a karaoke favorite worldwide.
Kacey Musgraves, ‘Merry Go Round’
Kacey Musgraves Merry Go Round country song 2012
Kacey Musgraves made a striking debut in 2012 with “Merry Go Round,” a single that showcased her unique perspective on country music. Her debut single presented a cleverly bleak outlook on small-town stagnation and boredom, delivered with a tune that is undeniably gorgeous. “Merry Go Round” isn’t a celebratory carnival ride; it’s a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of life in confined spaces. Musgraves’ songwriting immediately set her apart, establishing her as a significant voice in contemporary country and one of the most compelling artists to emerge in 2012.
Deadmau5, ‘The Veldt’
Deadmau5 The Veldt electronic music 2012
Deadmau5, the EDM kingpin known for his robot-rodent persona and knob-twisting mastery, delivered “The Veldt” in 2012, a track featuring Chris James. James’ vocals wryly praise the “digital family” amidst a world increasingly dominated by machines. Interestingly, Deadmau5 discovered James on Twitter, making “The Veldt” a groundbreaking single possibly built on crowd-sourced lyrics and vocals. This innovative approach may have been a sign of things to come in music production, highlighting the evolving ways artists connect and create in the digital age.
Superchunk, ‘This Summer’
Superchunk This Summer indie rock 2012
Indie-rock veterans Superchunk reminded everyone of the joys of summer with “This Summer” in 2012. This track is a burst of youthful exuberance, evoking school’s-out freedom and beach days. It’s a perfectly messy, feel-good anthem, complete with raw guitar heat that cuts through the summer haze. “This Summer” captured the spirit of carefree teenage fun and solidified Superchunk’s enduring appeal within the indie rock scene, proving they could still deliver energetic and relevant music.
Maroon 5 feat. Wiz Khalifa, ‘Payphone’
Maroon 5 Payphone pop hit 2012
Maroon 5, featuring Wiz Khalifa, scored a massive hit in 2012 with “Payphone.” Despite the slightly outdated title in an era dominated by smartphones, the song resonated widely. It’s a burst of pure, sugary pop goodness, packed with catchy hooks and a surprisingly bittersweet undertone beneath its sweet surface. The lyrics hint at a weariness with love songs, adding a layer of complexity to its otherwise upbeat tempo. “Payphone” became one of the biggest pop songs of 2012, demonstrating Maroon 5’s knack for crafting commercially successful and melodically rich tracks.
Justin Bieber, ‘Die in Your Arms’
Justin Bieber Die in Your Arms R&B song 2012
Justin Bieber showcased his vocal maturity in 2012 with “Die in Your Arms.” His vocal tone, a soulful rasp hinting at deeper emotions, is his strongest asset and is used to great effect in this blue-eyed R&B single. The song’s vibe and lilting melody are reminiscent of prime Hall & Oates, giving it a classic, timeless feel. “Die in Your Arms” was considered “hater-proof” by Bieber’s manager, and indeed, its undeniable charm and Bieber’s evolving artistry made it a standout track in 2012.
The Wanted, ‘Glad You Came’
The Wanted Glad You Came teen pop 2012
The Wanted, the Irish-English boy band, pushed the boundaries of teen pop in 2012 with “Glad You Came.” This club-ready banger flirts with a slightly more mature theme, hinting at underage drinking. However, it’s the incredibly catchy chorus and blunt 4/4 beats that truly drive the song, along with the suggestive double entendre in the title. “Glad You Came” was a quintessential teen pop anthem of 2012, showcasing the genre’s ability to blend catchy melodies with a hint of edginess.
Tanlines, ‘All of Me’
Tanlines All of Me indie pop 2012
Brooklyn indie duo Tanlines delivered “All of Me” in 2012, a signature song from their debut album Mixed Emotions. The track perfectly captures the album’s theme, driven by singer Eric Emm’s mournful vocals. The music takes Eighties dance pop in interesting directions, from chant-like backing vocals to a unique “steel drum” synth solo. “All of Me” exemplified Tanlines’ ability to blend indie sensibilities with danceable rhythms, creating a sound that was both thoughtful and engaging.
The 2 Bears, ‘Bear Hug’
The 2 Bears Bear Hug disco house 2012
The 2 Bears, a side project featuring Joe Goddard of Hot Chip, brought the party vibes in 2012 with “Bear Hug.” This club-focused track is a celebration of physical connection and cheesy disco lyrics. Over an irresistibly bouncy house groove, they chant about dance-floor uplift. “Bear Hug” was a fun, feel-good track that epitomized the carefree spirit of disco-house and became a staple in dance clubs throughout 2012.
Danny Brown, ‘Grown Up’
Danny Brown Grown Up hip hop 2012
Danny Brown’s “Grown Up” from 2012 was a self-satisfied anthem of success. Brown revels in his transformation from underdog to Detroit’s leading rap artist since Eminem. With lyrics referencing his past struggles and present triumphs, set against old-school scratching, “Grown Up” is a sunny hip-hop nostalgia trip. It showcased Brown’s unique style and storytelling ability, solidifying his place in the hip-hop landscape of 2012.
Craig Finn, ‘Rented Room’
Craig Finn Rented Room storytelling rock 2012
Craig Finn, frontman of The Hold Steady, offered a narrative-driven track with “Rented Room” in 2012. The song tells the story of a down-on-his-luck metalhead in a cheap motel after a breakup, soundtracked by records like Hotter Than Hell and Bark at the Moon. Finn’s guitar work adds to the somber mood, tolling like a funeral bell. “Rented Room” highlighted Finn’s talent for detailed storytelling and his ability to create emotionally resonant rock music.
Dwight Yoakam, ‘A Heart Like Mine’
Dwight Yoakam A Heart Like Mine country rock 2012
Dwight Yoakam collaborated with Beck in 2012 for “A Heart Like Mine,” resulting in a unique blend of country and psychedelia. This track from Yoakam’s first album of originals in seven years, produced by Beck, is a powerful blend of Buck Owens-style California country and Sixties garage psychedelia. “A Heart Like Mine” was a testament to Yoakam’s willingness to experiment while staying true to his country roots, making it a standout track in 2012.
Teen, ‘Better’
Teen Better indie girl group 2012
Brooklyn-based band Teen, despite their name, weren’t actually teenagers when they released “Better” in 2012. This track sees them embrace an adolescent spirit with swirling keyboards and a muscular beat, giving classic girl group sounds a lo-fi twist. The chorus, with its youthful bravado, declares “I’ll do it better than anybody else.” “Better” showcased Teen’s ability to modernize girl group aesthetics with indie sensibilities, creating a fresh and confident sound.
Muse, ‘Madness’
Muse Madness progressive rock 2012
Muse explored new sonic territory in 2012 with “Madness,” from their album The 2nd Law. Drawing comparisons to Radiohead’s Kid A, “Madness” is the album’s pop-leaning centerpiece, featuring Matt Bellamy’s Bono-esque vocals, electronic backing vocals, and a deep bass wobble. The song then explodes with a signature Muse guitar riff, grounding it back to earth. “Madness” was hailed as one of Muse’s best songs, demonstrating their ability to blend progressive rock with pop accessibility.
Himanshu, ‘Womyn’
Himanshu Womyn indie hip hop 2012
Himanshu, also known as Heems from Das Racist, released the quirky love song “Womyn” in 2012. Over Bollywood-inspired boom-bap beats, Heems delivers humorous, if somewhat stereotypical, observations about women. While the lyrics are intentionally goofy and filled with dude-talk clichés, there’s a layer of self-aware humor. “Womyn” was a lighthearted and memorable track that showcased Himanshu’s playful approach to hip-hop.
Icona Pop, ‘I Love It’
Icona Pop I Love It electro pop 2012
Icona Pop’s “I Love It” became the ultimate Euro-club anthem of summer 2012. These Swedish synth-pop duo channeled girl-power energy with a pouty track about moving on from a difficult relationship. The lyrics declare a Nineties-bitch attitude against a “Seventies” boyfriend, amplified by a hard-hitting beat. “I Love It” was unapologetically energetic and became a defining party song of 2012, especially popular among female audiences.
Kendrick Lamar, ‘Swimming Pools (Drank)’
Kendrick Lamar Swimming Pools hip hop 2012
Kendrick Lamar’s “Swimming Pools (Drank)” was a standout hip-hop track of 2012, showcasing his introspective and narrative style. This woozy meditation on alcohol consumption captures the internal conflict of drinking. The verses shift between slow-motion and rapid-fire delivery, mirroring the stages of intoxication. The groove, flow, and chorus create a liquid seductiveness, making it ironically, or perhaps intentionally, a compelling drinking song. “Swimming Pools” solidified Lamar’s position as a major voice in hip-hop with his thoughtful and complex approach to songwriting.
Miguel, ‘Adorn’
Miguel Adorn R&B slow jam 2012
Miguel’s “Adorn” was a smooth and sensual R&B slow jam that made waves in 2012. This baby-making track sounds both contemporary and rooted in soul tradition. Miguel’s masterful vocals, particularly his lingering delivery on the “ll-l-let you” hook, established him as a rising star in R&B. “Adorn” highlighted Miguel’s vocal prowess and his ability to create timeless yet modern soul music.
Bruce Springsteen, ‘We Take Care Of Our Own’
Bruce Springsteen We Take Care Of Our Own rock anthem 2012
Bruce Springsteen delivered a powerful and thought-provoking anthem with “We Take Care Of Our Own” in 2012. This double-edged song initially sounds jingoistic but reveals itself as both a critique and a challenge upon closer listening. Springsteen references Hurricane Katrina with lyrics about lack of help and the absence of cavalry, preaching to both supporters and skeptics. “We Take Care Of Our Own” was a commentary on American society and responsibility, delivered with Springsteen’s signature anthemic rock style.
Low Cut Connie, ‘Boozophilia’
Low Cut Connie Boozophilia rock and roll 2012
Low Cut Connie brought old-fashioned rock and roll energy with “Boozophilia” in 2012. This piano-slapping track has a drunk-punk spirit, imagining Jerry Lee Lewis at a Replacements show. It’s a raw, energetic ode to lowbrow fun, evoking dive bars from Philadelphia to Chicago’s South Side. “Boozophilia” was a raucous and fun track that celebrated the spirit of classic rock and roll with a modern, punk-infused twist.
The Beach Boys, ‘That’s Why God Made The Radio’
The Beach Boys That's Why God Made The Radio pop nostalgia 2012
The Beach Boys made a nostalgic comeback in 2012 with “That’s Why God Made The Radio.” This track is a hymn to a deity that sounds like Phil Spector, celebrating rock and roll as the soundtrack of love. The iconic Beach Boys harmonies are as strong as ever, potentially turning listeners into believers in the power of pop music. “That’s Why God Made The Radio” was a reminder of The Beach Boys’ enduring legacy and their ability to create timeless, feel-good music.
Grizzly Bear, ‘Yet Again’
Grizzly Bear Yet Again indie rock 2012
Grizzly Bear showcased their indie rock mastery with “Yet Again” in 2012. This track condenses everything that makes the Brooklyn band great into five taut minutes. Ed Droste’s tender vocals shine over a yearning melody, set against the band’s restless energy, culminating in a cathartic feedback-filled explosion. “Yet Again” was a testament to Grizzly Bear’s sophisticated songwriting and their ability to create emotionally powerful and sonically rich music.
Grimes, ‘Oblivion’
Grimes Oblivion electro pop 2012
Grimes, the electro-pop innovator, broke through in 2012 with “Oblivion.” Claire Boucher’s sugar-dust vocals float over a thumping synth loop, creating a dreamy sound that belies the dark lyrics about vulnerability and danger in public spaces. The catchiness of “Oblivion” makes its unsettling undertones even more effective. “Oblivion” was a groundbreaking track for Grimes, showcasing her unique blend of pop sensibility and experimental electronic production.
A$AP Rocky, ‘Goldie’
A$AP Rocky Goldie hip hop style 2012
A$AP Rocky’s “Goldie” was a stylish and swaggering hip-hop track from 2012. Rapped with a wink, this bragfest about sex, drugs, and luxury goods is elevated by its intricate details. From the metallic groove to witty non sequiturs and Rocky’s vocal shifts, “Goldie” showcased his mastery of style and delivery. It established A$AP Rocky as a new voice in hip-hop, known for his fashion-forward aesthetic and smooth flow.
The Lumineers, ‘Ho Hey’
The Lumineers Ho Hey folk rock 2012
The Lumineers introduced their folk-rock sound to America in 2012 with “Ho Hey.” This track, reminiscent of Mumford & Sons, features a roots-rock stomp, choir-like vocals, and lyrics about longing for a girl. Wesley Schultz’s heart-on-sleeve delivery as a high-plains drifter resonated with audiences. “Ho Hey” became a massive hit, establishing The Lumineers as a leading act in the folk-rock revival of the early 2010s.
Psy, ‘Gangnam Style’
Psy Gangnam Style K-Pop 2012
Psy’s “Gangnam Style” became a global phenomenon in 2012, transcending language barriers and cultural boundaries. The South Korean artist’s viral hit invented a dance craze and conquered the world, including the U.S., which had previously resisted K-Pop. “Gangnam Style” exploded on YouTube and became a Top 10 hit in numerous countries. Its infectious beat and humorous video made it an unforgettable cultural moment of 2012.
Japandroids, ‘The House That Heaven Built’
Japandroids The House That Heaven Built indie anthem 2012
Japandroids delivered a fist-pumping indie rock anthem in 2012 with “The House That Heaven Built.” This scorching track evokes Bruce Springsteen with a raw, punk energy. Amidst buzzsaw guitars and a catchy hook, Brian King rails against a “lifeless life,” urging listeners to resist being slowed down. “The House That Heaven Built” was a high-energy, cathartic track that became an indie rock staple of 2012.
Randy Newman, ‘I’m Dreaming’
Randy Newman I'm Dreaming satirical song 2012
Randy Newman’s “I’m Dreaming” sparked controversy and satire in 2012. Sung in a mush-mouthed Bing Crosby style, the song’s ironic lyrics about “dreaming of a white president” were often misunderstood. In classic Newman fashion, it’s a satirical take on a sensitive topic, using humor to address a painful truth about a segment of the American electorate. “I’m Dreaming” exemplified Newman’s provocative and witty songwriting style.
Skrillex feat. Sirah, ‘Bangarang’
Skrillex Bangarang dubstep 2012
Skrillex, featuring Sirah, pushed the boundaries of dubstep with “Bangarang” in 2012. For some dubstep purists, it was a controversial track, but for many, it was speaker-blasting thud-funk. “Bangarang” is unapologetically obvious and loud, drawing parallels to Daft Punk’s influence on electronic music. Skrillex positioned EDM for mainstream dominance with this track, embracing superstar DJ status.
Donald Fagen, “Weather in My Head’
Donald Fagen Weather in My Head jazz rock 2012
Donald Fagen, of Steely Dan fame, delivered “Weather in My Head” in 2012, showcasing his signature smooth cynicism. This sleek R&B groove features wry lyrics that touch on ecological optimism, yet reveal a personal “weather” stuck in a permanent state of storm, like Hurricane Sandy. “Weather in My Head” highlighted Fagen’s sophisticated songwriting and his ability to blend jazz-rock with sharp social commentary.
Leonard Cohen, ‘Going Home’
Leonard Cohen Going Home folk poetry 2012
Leonard Cohen, at 78 years old, offered a reflective and poignant track with “Going Home” in 2012. The song imagines a call from God, reminding Cohen of his mortality. Cohen’s voice, full of ancient wisdom, is accompanied by serene backing vocals and organ, creating a peaceful journey towards the inevitable. “Going Home” was a deeply moving and introspective track from a legendary artist contemplating life’s final chapter.
Beach House, ‘Other People’
Beach House Other People dream pop 2012
Beach House continued to refine their minimalist dream-pop sound with “Other People” in 2012. Victoria Legrand’s cryptic lyrics about love are set against vaporous organ sounds. The song builds to moments of near silence, punctuated by a single cymbal crash, creating a unique sonic experience. The chorus blooms like fireworks, making the world feel new. “Other People” exemplified Beach House’s ability to create ethereal and emotionally evocative music.
The Rolling Stones, ‘Doom and Gloom’
The Rolling Stones Doom and Gloom blues rock 2012
The Rolling Stones made a comeback in 2012 with “Doom and Gloom,” their first new track in seven years. This apocalypse-blues rocker delivers the raw energy only The Stones can. It’s “Start Me Up” stripped down for a dystopian future filled with chaos. Mick Jagger’s vocals are as iconic as ever, stretching out words with gritty intensity. “Doom and Gloom” was a powerful return for the legendary band, proving they could still deliver relevant and hard-hitting rock music.
Kitty Pryde, ‘Okay Cupid’
Kitty Pryde Okay Cupid teen rap 2012
Kitty Pryde, a suburban teen rapper, went viral in 2012 with “Okay Cupid.” This homemade mumblecore hit captured the voice of a bored Florida teenager. Full of wit and mall-rat ambience, the song explores teen angst and waiting for late-night calls. “Okay Cupid” was a lo-fi gem that resonated with a young, internet-savvy audience, showcasing Pryde’s unique and relatable style.
Van Halen, ‘Stay Frosty’
Van Halen Stay Frosty hard rock reunion 2012
Van Halen’s reunion was validated in 2012 with “Stay Frosty.” This single proved the reunion was worthwhile, featuring Diamond Dave riding the Van Halen brothers’ most dazzling riffs in decades. The lyrics are filled with strip-club Zen wisdom and classic David Lee Roth one-liners. “Stay Frosty” was a high-energy, fun track that showcased Van Halen’s enduring musical prowess.
Usher, ‘Climax’
Usher Climax electronic R&B 2012
Usher collaborated with Diplo in 2012 for “Climax,” a savvy move that showcased his ear for contemporary sounds. The understated electro beat brought out a stunning sensitivity in Usher’s vocals. While the lyrics are about a harsh breakup, the delivery is so ethereal it almost masks the pain. “Climax” was a sophisticated and emotionally resonant track that demonstrated Usher’s artistic evolution.
The Vaccines, ‘Teenage Icon’
The Vaccines Teenage Icon indie punk 2012
The Vaccines, from London, brought self-deprecating humor to indie punk with “Teenage Icon” in 2012. Blending Strokes-esque tightness with witty lyrics about being a poseur, Justin Young sings against breakneck guitar riffs. “Teenage Icon” added to the canon of punk songs about the absurdity of trying too hard to be cool, delivered with The Vaccines’ signature energy.
Mumford & Sons, ‘I Will Wait’
Mumford and Sons I Will Wait folk rock anthem 2012
Mumford & Sons delivered a sweeping folk-rock anthem in 2012 with “I Will Wait.” This track showcased their Bono-meets-banjos style, filled with road-weary longing and isolation. “I Will Wait” proved that music could be soul-wrenchingly heavy without relying on electric guitars or power chords, emphasizing the emotional depth of acoustic instrumentation.
Fiona Apple, ‘Hot Knife’
Fiona Apple’s “Hot Knife” was an experimental and evocative track from 2012. Over chattering drums and jazz piano, Apple’s multi-tracked vocals scat, murmur, and holler suggestive lyrics. The song explores the genesis of rhythm and sound, creating a mythic, bluesy atmosphere. “Hot Knife” was a testament to Apple’s unique artistry and her willingness to push boundaries in pop music.
fun., ‘Some Nights’
Fun Some Nights pop anthem 2012
fun. followed up their hit “We Are Young” with another skywriting anthem, “Some Nights,” in 2012. This track was tinged with lush melancholy and young-adult angst. Lyrics about feeling underappreciated resonated widely, while the martial beat and soaring vocals made even entropy feel epic. “Some Nights” solidified fun.’s status as a purveyor of anthemic pop with emotional depth.
First Aid Kit, ‘Emmylou’
First Aid Kit Emmylou folk harmony 2012
First Aid Kit, Swedish sisters, paid tribute to country music legends in 2012 with “Emmylou.” The song name-checks iconic country partnerships like Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris and Johnny Cash & June Carter, sung in stunning harmony. “Emmylou” was a beautiful reminder of American musical heritage, delivered with heartfelt sincerity by international artists.
Bob Dylan, ‘Pay in Blood’
Bob Dylan Pay in Blood protest song 2012
Bob Dylan unleashed a vicious and politically charged track in 2012 with “Pay in Blood.” Conjuring a demonic figure, Dylan’s lyrics are sharp and accusatory, set against guitars that glint like a switchblade. “Pay in Blood” was a powerful protest song, reminiscent of Dylan’s earlier works, and a stark commentary on power and corruption.
Jack White, ‘Sixteen Saltines’
Jack White Sixteen Saltines garage rock 2012
Jack White delivered raw and unhinged energy with “Sixteen Saltines” in 2012. This track features his most aggressive riffs since “Seven Nation Army” and reaches into a wiggy falsetto. The lyrics are about being under a demon lady’s spell, delivered with White’s signature theatrical flair. “Sixteen Saltines” was a high-octane garage rock track that showcased White’s untamed musical spirit.
Bruce Springsteen, ‘Rocky Ground’
Bruce Springsteen Rocky Ground gospel hip hop 2012
Bruce Springsteen experimented with genre-bending on “Rocky Ground” in 2012. This track melds church hymn, folk lament, and hip-hop protest elements. The song is a somber reflection on American inequality. Live performances amplified the song’s message of hope and resilience. “Rocky Ground” was a bold and genre-defying track that highlighted Springsteen’s willingness to innovate and address social issues in his music.
Kanye West feat. Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz, ‘Mercy’
Kanye West Mercy hip hop collaboration 2012
Kanye West collaborated with Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz on “Mercy” in 2012, a track focused on pure fun. This posse cut features catchy nonsense lyrics about cars and women, set over reggae samples and deep bass. “Mercy” was designed for pure enjoyment, encouraging listeners to stop thinking and start bouncing. It was a highlight of hip-hop collaborations in 2012.
Neil Young and Crazy Horse, ‘Ramada Inn’
Neil Young Ramada Inn epic rock 2012
Neil Young and Crazy Horse delivered an epic track in 2012 with “Ramada Inn.” This 17-minute song surveys a long-term relationship facing the challenges of time and aging. “Ramada Inn” is a sprawling, emotional journey with no easy resolutions, underscored by Young’s signature guitar work. It was a testament to Young’s enduring artistry and his ability to create deeply immersive musical experiences.
Frank Ocean, ‘Thinkin Bout You’
Frank Ocean Thinkin Bout You R&B ballad 2012
Frank Ocean’s “Thinkin Bout You” was a deeply moving love song that resonated widely in 2012. The track opens with a subtle gender-flip, and the lyrics delve into complex emotions of love and vulnerability. Ocean’s aching falsetto is universally relatable, making “Thinkin Bout You” a defining R&B ballad of the year. It solidified Ocean’s position as a major voice in contemporary R&B with his honest and nuanced songwriting.
Passion Pit, ‘Take a Walk’
Passion Pit Take a Walk synth pop 2012
Passion Pit’s “Take a Walk” was a synth-pop gem that captured the anxieties of the Great Recession in 2012. Lyrics about financial worries are contrasted by a bright, uplifting chorus. “Take a Walk” exemplified the power of pop songs to provide solace and escapism during difficult times. It became an anthem of resilience and hope in a challenging economic climate.
Taylor Swift, ‘We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together’
Taylor Swift We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together pop breakup song 2012
Taylor Swift teamed up with pop maestro Max Martin in 2012 for “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” The result was a perfect teen tantrum of a breakup song, blending Swift’s country-pop sensibilities with Martin’s pop production expertise. The track topped charts rapidly and became a stadium-chant anthem for breakups. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” cemented Swift’s status as a pop superstar and showcased her ability to connect with a massive audience through relatable themes and catchy melodies.
Alabama Shakes, ‘Hold On’
Alabama Shakes Hold On soul rock 2012
Alabama Shakes and Brittany Howard made a powerful impact in 2012 with “Hold On.” Howard’s soulful vocals and the band’s retro rock sound evoked Sixties rock and soul without resorting to imitation. “Hold On” became a battle cry against failure, resonating with many who were facing struggles in 2012. It introduced Brittany Howard as a phenomenal vocal talent and Alabama Shakes as a band with a timeless and powerful sound.
2012 was indeed a year of diverse and impactful music. These top songs represent a range of genres and styles, reflecting the dynamic musical landscape of that year. From global pop sensations to indie rock anthems and introspective ballads, the music of 2012 continues to resonate with listeners today.
