- Lady Gaga – “The Cure”
Lady Gaga’s “The Cure,” a departure from her Joanne LP’s rootsy sound, feels like a nod to the trop-pop trend that dominated radio airwaves. Yet, the song is unmistakably Gaga, showcasing her vocal versatility from smoky verses to a powerful chorus. It’s a modern take on a feel-good anthem, reminiscent of classic radio cures.
- The Killers – “The Man”
The Killers made a triumphant return in 2017 with “The Man,” the lead single from their Billboard 200-topping album Wonderful Wonderful. This synth-rock track is a confident, disco-infused reflection on a younger Brandon Flowers during the band’s early days. Its glitzy Vegas vibe and catchy guitar riffs solidify The Killers’ enduring appeal.
- Julien Baker – “Turn Out the Lights”
Julien Baker’s “Turn Out the Lights,” the title track from her sophomore album, is a deeply personal and resonant song. Baker’s raw and honest songwriting is amplified by layered reverb guitar, creating a sonic balm for her introspective lyrics. The song explores finding clarity in darkness and embracing one’s true self in moments of solitude.
- Halsey feat. Lauren Jauregui – “Strangers”
Halsey’s “Strangers,” featuring Lauren Jauregui, is a standout synth-pop track from her second album. Produced by Greg Kurstin, this song aimed to bring an all-female love anthem to pop radio. The chemistry between Halsey and Jauregui, especially in Jauregui’s verse, portrays raw lovesick emotion and severed connections.
- Justin Bieber & BloodPop – “Friends”
“Friends,” a collaboration between Justin Bieber and producer BloodPop, marks a shift from Bieber’s tropical house era back to electro-pop. BloodPop, known for his work with Lady Gaga and Madonna, brings his production expertise to this propulsive track, revitalizing Bieber’s sound.
- Smino – “Anita”
Smino’s “Anita” is a joyful and warm ode to the women in his life. This love song, produced by Monte Booker, extends beyond romantic love to encompass platonic and familial affection. Smino’s breezy flow and catchy chorus, turning “Anita” into “I need her,” make this track exuberant and memorable.
- Dej Loaf – “No Fear”
Dej Loaf’s “No Fear” is a sun-kissed, disco-infused hip-hop track that celebrates love without reservation. With its instantly catchy chorus and laid-back swagger, this summer anthem is one of Dej Loaf’s most pop-oriented songs, perfect for poolside playlists.
- Tash Sultana – “Jungle”
Tash Sultana’s breakthrough hit “Jungle” is a captivating blend of genres – alt-reggae-psych-jazz – resulting in a unique and emotionally charged ballad. The song showcases Sultana’s impressive musical range, especially evident in the extended live bedroom version, highlighting her soul and guitar skills.
- SOPHIE – “It’s Okay to Cry”
SOPHIE’s “It’s Okay to Cry” marks a public statement from the usually private London producer known for hyper-reality pop. This slowly unfolding track, a precursor to her album Product, builds from a near whisper to an explosive climax, maintaining a cool and detached yet emotional core.
- JAY-Z – “4:44”
JAY-Z’s “4:44,” the title track of his Grammy-nominated album, is a deeply personal confession of vulnerability and infidelity. Sampling Hannah Williams & The Affirmations’ “Late Nights and Heartbreak,” the song features Jay-Z’s introspection and lament, amplified by Kim Burrell’s soulful vocals.
Jay-Z performing live in 2017
- Bonobo feat. Rhye – “Break Apart”
Bonobo’s “Break Apart,” featuring Rhye, is an ethereal and reflective track from his Migration album. With soulful vocals from Rhye, jazzy textures, and sped-up harp loops, this song is a slow-building, heart-wrenching breakup anthem, perfect for introspective moments.
- Vince Staples – “Big Fish”
Vince Staples’ “Big Fish,” from Big Fish Theory, is a confident and reflective track about fame and overcoming adversity. Over slick production, Staples boasts about his success while acknowledging his challenging past, offering a smart and complex take on his journey.
- Ozuna – “Se Preparo”
Ozuna’s “Se Preparo” is a standout reggaeton track showcasing his melodic strength and lyrical focus. This poignant song tells the story of a woman preparing for a night out despite knowing her boyfriend’s infidelity, highlighting Ozuna’s sensitive yet sly approach to the genre.
- The Chainsmokers – “Paris”
The Chainsmokers’ “Paris” continues their formula of pairing electro beats with catchy female vocals. With wistful lyrics about escapism and Emily Warren’s irresistible hook, this track is a late-night party staple and a classic pop hit in their repertoire.
- Greta Van Fleet – “Black Smoke Rising”
Greta Van Fleet’s “Black Smoke Rising” is a powerful rock anthem drawing heavy Led Zeppelin comparisons. Josh Kiszka’s Robert Plant-esque vocals and Jake Kiszka’s Jimmy Page-inspired riffs create a vintage rock sound, with an anthemic chorus resonating with a 1969 vibe.
- 21 Savage, Offset & Metro Boomin – “Ghostface Killers”
“Ghostface Killers,” by 21 Savage, Offset, and Metro Boomin featuring Travis Scott, is a standout track from Without Warning. Backed by Metro Boomin’s killer beat, the song is spooky, funny, and boasts memorable lines and flows from each rapper.
- Imagine Dragons – “Thunder”
Imagine Dragons’ “Thunder” is a departure from their typical rock anthems, opting for a stripped-down, bouncy pop gem. With its soldierly cadence and helium-inflated hook, the song is a curious and catchy pop success, showcasing their versatility.
- Tee Grizzley – “First Day Out”
Tee Grizzley’s “First Day Out” is a compelling hip-hop track with a powerful backstory, reflecting on his prison release day. The song’s kinetic energy and beat drop create a transition from meditation to banger, marking a significant moment in hip-hop in 2017.
- Daniel Caesar feat. Kali Uchis – “Get You”
Daniel Caesar’s “Get You,” featuring Kali Uchis, is a celestial and sumptuous R&B track. Caesar’s nimble falsetto and heartfelt lyrics about beauty and commitment are elevated by Kali Uchis’s sultry vocals, creating a balanced and captivating love song.
- Alice Merton – “No Roots”
Alice Merton’s “No Roots” is an alt-pop anthem about displacement and not having a fixed home. Merton’s global upbringing informs the song’s theme, driven by a delectable and memorable bass line that resonates with listeners.
- Arcade Fire – “Everything Now”
Arcade Fire’s “Everything Now,” the title track from their album, is an alt-disco stadium filler with a Talking Heads-meets-ABBA vibe. Despite a complex album campaign, the song’s organic and fun energy shines through, reminiscent of a 70s sound.
- Dagny – “Love You Like That”
Dagny’s “Love You Like That” is an effervescent pop track celebrating true love revelations. The Norwegian newcomer’s euphoric delivery and conversational lyrics capture the giddiness of finding a partner and declaring it to the world.
- Big Sean – “Bounce Back”
Big Sean’s “Bounce Back” is a confident and determined hip-hop track about resilience and success. With Metro Boomin production, Sean declares his righteousness and winning streak, making it his first top 10 hit as a lead artist.
- SZA – “The Weekend”
SZA’s “The Weekend,” from her debut album Ctrl, is a slinky and standout R&B track about sharing a lover. The song captures SZA’s artistry, expressing empowerment and clever lyrics in the infectious chorus, exploring complex relationship dynamics.
- Chris Stapleton – “Second One to Know”
Chris Stapleton’s “Second One to Know” from From A Room: Volume 1 showcases his unleashed and fiercer side. With fire-and-brimstone wailing, chugging riffs, and shredding solos, this track blurs genre lines and highlights Stapleton’s rock edge.
- Miley Cyrus – “Malibu”
Miley Cyrus’s “Malibu” marks a sun-splashed and carefree pop return, signaling a new era after Bangerz. Written about her reconciliation with Liam Hemsworth, the song’s acoustic strums and wistful lyrics capture a rekindled love and a refreshing artistic shift.
- Marshmello feat. Khalid – “Silence”
Marshmello’s “Silence,” featuring Khalid, is a subdued yet impactful EDM crossover hit. Khalid’s velvety vocals and Marshmello’s restrained production create a calm and determined resistance, resonating with lyrical timeliness and quiet strength.
- Becky G feat. Bad Bunny – “Mayores”
Becky G’s “Mayores,” featuring Bad Bunny, is an infectiously syncopated reggaeton track challenging age norms. Becky G expresses her desires for older, wiser men with confidence, making this song a bold and empowering statement for young women.
- The xx – “Say Something Loving”
The xx’s “Say Something Loving,” from I See You, is a delicate duet capturing the emotional spiral of new love. Sampling the Alessi Brothers’ “Do You Feel It,” this earnest plea and aching vocals melt even the iciest hearts with its vulnerability.
- Maren Morris – “I Could Use a Love Song”
Maren Morris’s “I Could Use a Love Song” is a vulnerable and relatable country track. After her breakout hit “My Church,” Morris shows her softer side with this lovelorn ballad, resonating with anyone who has experienced heartbreak and seeks solace in music.
- Miguel – “Told You So”
Miguel’s “Told You So,” from War & Leisure, is a socially charged R&B track with an electric soundscape. Moving away from baby-making jams, Miguel voices his disdain against world ills, layered with indelible lyrics and political messages.
- Migos – “T-Shirt”
Migos’ “T-Shirt” is a brash and catchy follow-up to “Bad & Boujee,” setting up their album Culture. With its synth-bass booms and “Mama told me…” hook, the song delivers quotable verses from each member, especially Takeoff’s memorable line.
- Maluma – “Felices Los 4”
Maluma’s “Felices Los 4” is a romantic yet edgy reggaeton track exploring unconventional relationship dynamics. Maluma sings about accepting a woman with multiple lovers, blending melodic pop with a reggaeton beat and a dose of bad boy charm.
- Post Malone feat. 21 Savage – “Rockstar”
Post Malone’s “Rockstar,” featuring 21 Savage, is a polarizing yet chart-topping hit. The song’s gorgeous, disquieting production by Tank God & Louis Bell creates an unnervingly serene backdrop for Posty’s rock star tribute.
- Rex Orange County – “Loving Is Easy”
Rex Orange County’s “Loving Is Easy” is a joyous and buoyant track blending pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Featuring Benny Sings, this standalone single soundtracks a movie montage of love, with piano, drums, and strings creating a feel-good vibe.
- Mura Masa feat. A$AP Rocky – “Love$ick”
Mura Masa’s “Love$ick,” featuring A$AP Rocky, is a twisted-pop, calypso-hip-hop dance track. Originally released in 2015 and remixed, Rocky’s verses add a lovelorn, exotic dimension to this sexy and genre-bending track.
- LCD Soundsystem – “American Dream”
LCD Soundsystem’s “American Dream” is a dreamy and wry summation of aging hipster dread. James Murphy & Co. capture the anxieties of getting older and losing youthful energy, marked by chiming chords and an ironic refrain.
- Kelela – “LMK”
Kelela’s “LMK” is an accessible and chill R&B track from her debut album. With hazy synth production and a laid-back energy, Kelela insists on casual connection in the chorus, highlighting her unique and heart-felt musicality.
- Playboi Carti – “Magnolia”
Playboi Carti’s “Magnolia” is a standout track from his SoundCloud-born hype, armed with Pi’erre Bourne beats. With ethereal raps and a meme-able producer drop, Carti’s catchy hook and ad-lib avant-garde style made this track a mumble rap anthem.
- Taylor Swift – “Getaway Car”
Taylor Swift’s “Getaway Car,” from Reputation, is a synth-pop action romance. This Bonnie & Clyde-style track, produced by Jack Antonoff, is a not-so-subtle narrative of farewells and new beginnings, with Swift’s signature storytelling and pop sensibility.
- Demi Lovato – “Daddy Issues”
Demi Lovato’s “Daddy Issues,” from Tell Me You Love Me, showcases her musical evolution and experimental spirit. Mysterious verses and an explosive chorus make this track a standout gem, highlighting Lovato’s vocal power and artistry.
- Calvin Harris feat. Pharrell, Katy Perry & Big Sean – “Feels”
Calvin Harris’s “Feels,” featuring Pharrell, Katy Perry, and Big Sean, is a summer smash with a disco sensibility. Pharrell’s opening sets the tone for this genre-hopping track, topped by Williams’ falsetto, Perry’s hook, and Big Sean’s verse.
- Frank Ocean feat. JAY-Z – “Biking”
Frank Ocean’s “Biking,” featuring JAY-Z, is a wistful and reflective track about money and responsibility. Anchored by acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, Ocean’s vivid imagery and similes lead to an eruption of bravado and financial awareness.
- Little Big Town – “Better Man”
Little Big Town’s “Better Man,” written by Taylor Swift, is a vintage-Taylor ballad with country quartet harmonies. Karen Fairchild’s lead vocals and LBT’s harmonies bring gravitas to this bittersweet song about regret and breakup dynamics.
- Lil Uzi Vert feat. Nicki Minaj – “The Way Life Goes” (Remix)
Lil Uzi Vert’s “The Way Life Goes” (Remix) featuring Nicki Minaj is a breakup moper with an inspired Oh Wonder sample. Uzi’s sentimental jam is enhanced by Nicki Minaj’s verse, creating a remix that elevates the original’s emotional depth.
- Japandroids – “North East South West”
Japandroids’ “North East South West” fetishizes journey and travel, namedropping North American locations. This rock anthem celebrates movement and home, maintaining their signature energy and Canadian roots.
- Charlie Puth – “Attention”
Charlie Puth’s “Attention” is a producer’s showcase with sonic detail and soul-pop sensibility. Puth’s vocals, funky bass line, and percussive tension create a track that’s both catchy and harder-hitting than typical top 40 hits.
- French Montana feat. Swae Lee – “Unforgettable”
French Montana’s “Unforgettable,” featuring Swae Lee, is a summer anthem with a pumping beat and Swae Lee’s unique hook. Originally produced for Drake, this steel drum-sampling track became a cavernous banger with bounce and appeal.
- Father John Misty – “Pure Comedy”
Father John Misty’s “Pure Comedy” blends vintage Elton John piano and vocals with contemporary, satirical lyrics. Josh Tillman’s witty and insightful commentary on modern culture, Trumpism, and societal ills makes this song a sharp observation.
- Tove Lo – “Disco Tits”
Tove Lo’s “Disco Tits” is a unique and edgy pop track, unlike typical top 40 hits. Blending Weeknd’s alt-R&B with Ladytron’s dancefloor bops, it’s a 3 AM dance track with a dark and intriguing vibe.
- 21 Savage – “Bank Account”
21 Savage’s “Bank Account” is an infectious banger about financial success. Produced by Metro Boomin, the addictive hook about multiplying money became a mantra in 2017, solidifying 21 Savage’s Platinum status.
- BTS – “DNA”
BTS’s “DNA” marked their crossover into the U.S. market, achieving chart history for K-pop groups. This Korean-language track blends soft rock and EDM-pop, with meaningful lyrics about interconnectedness and a rich sonic concoction.
- yaeji – “raingurl”
yaeji’s “raingurl” is a certified house banger, described as “introspection at the club.” With subterranean house throb and quotable lyrics, yaeji serves both introspection and dancefloor energy in this alternate universe hit.
- P!nk – “Beautiful Trauma”
P!nk’s “Beautiful Trauma,” produced by Jack Antonoff, is an anthem about messy relationships and resilience. Iconic visuals and P!nk’s raw honesty make this track an encapsulation of her enduring appeal, finding beauty in imperfect life.
- Logic feat. Alessia Cara & Khalid – “1-800-273-8255”
Logic’s “1-800-273-8255,” featuring Alessia Cara & Khalid, is a heavy-hearted collab with a powerful message. Beautiful construction, gentle beat, and emotional delivery made this song a radio hit and a profound statement on mental health.
- GoldLink feat. Brent Faiyaz & Shy Glizzy – “Crew”
GoldLink’s “Crew,” featuring Brent Faiyaz & Shy Glizzy, is a Grammy-nominated hip-hop track from left field. Teddy Walton’s slow-groove production and verses from GoldLink and Glizzy create a seamless and unexpectedly successful collaboration.
- Shawn Mendes – “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back”
Shawn Mendes’s “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back” is an invigorating track solidifying his solo artist status. Melding heart-on-sleeve emotions with acoustic strumming and bluesy growl, Mendes showcases his John Mayer-esque guitar prowess.
- Sam Hunt – “Body Like a Back Road”
Sam Hunt’s “Body Like a Back Road” is an epic country comeback hit. Breaking Hot Country Songs records, this snap-along bounce became a summer anthem, validating Hunt’s slow-and-steady approach to country-pop fusion.
- Sigrid – “Don’t Kill My Vibe”
Sigrid’s “Don’t Kill My Vibe” is an explosive pop debut with a strong personality. The Norwegian singer’s track roars to attention with supple verses and a serrated howl, showcasing her vulnerable restraint and fury.
- Ed Sheeran – “Shape of You”
Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” dominated top 40 radio in 2017, becoming a trop-house phenomenon. Marimba tones and acoustic groove drive this track to unshakeable bliss, solidifying its place in Hot 100 history.
- N.E.R.D. feat. Rihanna – “Lemon”
N.E.R.D.’s “Lemon,” featuring Rihanna, is a funky and chaotic dance-floor time bomb marking their return. Pharrell’s verses and Rihanna’s swagger-filled guest spot create a fizzy, head-rattling bop with timely social commentary.
- Kygo feat. Selena Gomez – “It Ain’t Me”
Kygo’s “It Ain’t Me,” featuring Selena Gomez, is a stellar mid-tempo trop-house banger. Gomez’s mature kiss-off lyrics and Kygo’s production earned them a top 10 hit, marking a significant moment for both artists.
- Perfume Genius – “Slip Away”
Perfume Genius’s “Slip Away” is a bright and quavering track that explodes into a tribal drum beat and wall of sound. Mike Hadreas’s song feels like a rom-com romp or a chase scene, celebrating LGBTQ strides while acknowledging ongoing struggles.
- DJ Khaled feat. Rihanna & Bryson Tiller – “Wild Thoughts”
DJ Khaled’s “Wild Thoughts,” featuring Rihanna & Bryson Tiller, is a song of the summer revitalizing Santana’s “Maria Maria.” Santana’s guitar riffs, Rihanna’s sultry vocals, and Bryson Tiller’s street edge create a fiery and sensual hit.
- iLoveMakonnen feat. Rae Sremmurd – “Love”
iLoveMakonnen’s “Love,” featuring Rae Sremmurd, is a genre-bending track spanning rap, surf rock, punk, and girl-group pop. Mike WiLL Made-It and Travis Barker’s production and lyrical self-awareness make this hybrid surprisingly cohesive.
- Charli XCX – “Boys”
Charli XCX’s “Boys” is a lustful and confident pop missive. Despite being written by a team of songwriters, the song fits Charli’s persona perfectly, with girlish innocence and unapologetic desire.
- Bruno Mars – “That’s What I Like”
Bruno Mars’ “That’s What I Like,” from 24K Magic, is a familiar yet irresistible R&B track. Celebrating familiarities like romance and luxury, Mars’ hospitality and pop star charm are on full display in this catchy hit.
- MUNA – “I Know a Place”
MUNA’s “I Know a Place” is a glittery synth-pop anthem mixing pop with politics. Dedicated to the LGBTQ community and marginalized groups, this uplifting track offers a safe space and motivation through its 80s-inspired soundscape.
- Sampha – “(No One Knows Me) Like the Piano”
Sampha’s “(No One Knows Me) Like the Piano” is a heartbreaking and beautiful tribute to his late mother. This standout track from Process showcases Sampha’s vocal prowess and songwriting, solidifying his place as a prominent artist.
- Kendrick Lamar – “DNA.”
Kendrick Lamar’s “DNA.” is a hard-hitting and immediate rap track from DAMN.. Unleashing murderous bars over Mike WiLL Made-It’s booming trap beat, Lamar rewrites hip-hop hierarchy and asserts his place among the greats.
- St. Vincent – “Los Ageless”
St. Vincent’s “Los Ageless” is a mechanically danceable song with grinding guitars and a brilliant chorus. Annie Clark’s lyrics reveal complex love and superficial beauty in modern life, creating a dark and gut-twisting lament.
- Paramore – “Hard Times”
Paramore’s “Hard Times” is a vividly colorful lead single from After Laughter. Hayley Williams ties inter-band tensions and coming-of-age cynicism together in 80s new wave, creating an anthem for former emo souls seeking positivity.
- SZA feat. Travis Scott – “Love Galore”
SZA’s “Love Galore,” featuring Travis Scott, is a lush and mellow R&B track from Ctrl. SZA declares she’s done with bad men, making it an anthem of self-love and nonchalance in relationships, with Travis Scott’s yearning intro.
- Niall Horan – “Slow Hands”
Niall Horan’s “Slow Hands” is a smoky and sexy follow-up to “This Town,” marking a clear shift from his One Direction days. Daring lyrics, sultry vocals, and a bluesy guitar hook showcase his mature and risky side.
- Frank Ocean – “Chanel”
Frank Ocean’s “Chanel” is a welcome solo single showcasing his lyrical and metaphorical genius. Flipping double-entendres and personal narratives, “Chanel” explores bisexuality and boutique fashion with offhand cultural references.
- Carly Rae Jepsen – “Cut to the Feeling”
Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Cut to the Feeling” is a glittering pop gem and a gift to her fanbase. With yearning lyrics and a stratospheric chorus, this song is a distillation of Carly Rae’s pop magic, reminiscent of “Run Away With Me.”
- JAY-Z – “The Story of O.J.”
JAY-Z’s “The Story of O.J.” from 4:44 is a wise and advisory track sampling Nina Simone’s “Four Women.” JAY-Z assumes the role of an elder statesman, doling out advice on culture, investment, and defying unjust expectations.
- Taylor Swift – “Gorgeous”
Taylor Swift’s “Gorgeous,” from Reputation, is easily her funniest song to date. Sending up country bros and her own perceived image, Swift delivers DayGlo synth-and-bass firecrackers with self-aware humor.
- Dua Lipa – “New Rules”
Dua Lipa’s “New Rules” is an infectious viral hit that solidified her top 40 force status. Lipa’s serpentine vocals and cautionary tale of post-breakup flings, amplified by a memeable video, made this a breakout track.
- Drake – “Passionfruit”
Drake’s “Passionfruit” is a yacht-rock-meets-roller-rink track with handclaps and faux-flute. Melancholy lyrics about long-distance breakup are disguised by carefree pop cheesiness, creating a unique and endlessly replayable song.
- Francis & The Lights feat. Chance the Rapper – “May I Have This Dance” (Remix)
Francis & The Lights’ “May I Have This Dance” (Remix) featuring Chance the Rapper is an incandescent love song. Chance’s verse adds fatherly affection to Francis’ romantic plea, creating a genre hybrid about togetherness and love in different forms.
- Camila Cabello feat. Young Thug – “Havana”
Camila Cabello’s “Havana,” featuring Young Thug, changed the course of her solo career. This heated mid-tempo track, an ode to her Cuban roots, became a slow-burning hit, paving the way for her solo success.
- Kesha – “Praying”
Kesha’s “Praying” is an impressive comeback power ballad. Emerging after years of legal battles, this song is not subtle about her struggles but focuses on resilience and cathartic release, showcasing her unbreakable spirit.
- Zedd & Alessia Cara – “Stay”
Zedd & Alessia Cara’s “Stay” solidified Alessia Cara’s pop standing. Their radio-dominating dance-pop blast, with Cara’s dulcet vocals and Zedd’s production, captivated listeners and earned Grammy recognition.
- Future – “Mask Off”
Future’s “Mask Off” is a meme-worthy trap hit with a flute sample. Metro Boomin’s production and Future’s Auto-Tuned Zen warrior persona create a hypnotic and pharmaceutical-laced anthem.
- Migos feat. Lil Uzi Vert – “Bad and Boujee”
Migos’ “Bad and Boujee,” featuring Lil Uzi Vert, is a trap song that launched a thousand memes and topped the charts. Minimalist production and syllable-stuffed lines create a circular cadence that burrows into the brain.
- Childish Gambino – “Redbone”
Childish Gambino’s “Redbone” is a modern-day Renaissance track marking Donald Glover’s coronation. Classic soul production and Glover’s falsetto delivery create a seismic shift in his career, becoming a Grammy-nominated hit.
- Lorde – “Green Light”
Lorde’s “Green Light” is a cathartic lead single from Melodrama. Pondering adulthood and heartbreak, Lorde’s pulsing keys and electrifying percussion capture the highs and lows of growing up.
- Khalid – “Location”
Khalid’s “Location” is a breakout hit showcasing his vulnerability and ode to young love. Unique production and Khalid’s smooth vocals made this track a platinum success, launching his career in 2017.
- Julia Michaels – “Issues”
Julia Michaels’ “Issues” is an instantly relatable ballad about loving someone flaws-and-all. Michaels’ feathery vocals and understated strings highlight vulnerable lyricism, earning Grammy recognition and chart success.
- Portugal. The Man – “Feel It Still”
Portugal. The Man’s “Feel It Still” is an inescapable earworm that catapulted them from indie veterans to pop heroes. Boogieing pop-rock jam became a radio sensation and earned Grammy nomination, showcasing their newfound pop appeal.
Jay-Z performing live in 2017
- The Weeknd feat. Daft Punk – “I Feel It Coming”
The Weeknd & Daft Punk’s “I Feel It Coming” continued their hot streak after “Starboy.” Buoyant single channels Michael Jackson with whispery coos and 80s-inspired beat, offering hope and danceable romance.
- Harry Styles – “Sign of the Times”
Harry Styles’ “Sign of the Times” marked an ambitious solo debut with a near-six-minute power ballad. Drawing from David Bowie and Queen, Styles’ soaring vocals and symphonic production showcase rock grandeur rarely heard in 2017.
- J Balvin & Willy William feat. Beyonce – “Mi Gente” (Remix)
J Balvin & Willy William’s “Mi Gente” (Remix) featuring Beyonce is a global anthem with an unstoppable reggaeton bounce. Beyonce’s addition amplified relief efforts and solidified this track as a moment-in-time musical snapshot.
- Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.”
Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” is a biting and ironic admonition that earned him his first Hot 100 No. 1. Heavy, thudding keys and Lamar’s boastful yet warning lyrics made this track a competition-placing anthem.
- Lil Uzi Vert – “XO TOUR Llif3”
Lil Uzi Vert’s “XO TOUR Llif3” is a desperate emo plea that became a song for all seasons. TM88’s mournful beat and Uzi’s cries about depression and dead friends resonated deeply throughout 2017.
- Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee feat. Justin Bieber – “Despacito” (Remix)
Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee’s “Despacito” (Remix) featuring Justin Bieber became one of the biggest singles of all time. Bieber’s addition propelled this Latin song to global dominance, driven by its sultry sexiness and catchy hook.
- Calvin Harris feat. Frank Ocean & Migos – “Slide”
Calvin Harris’ “Slide,” featuring Frank Ocean & Migos, is a producer-rapper-singer super-teaming at its finest. Palindromic structure, Frank Ocean’s cool chorus, and Migos verses create a sunrise-to-sunset feel.
- Cardi B – “Bodak Yellow”
Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow” was a year-defining smash proving that a fresh sound and attitude can conquer the charts. Brash personality and no-fux attitude made this trap anthem an unforgettable hit.
- Selena Gomez – “Bad Liar”
Selena Gomez’s “Bad Liar” sampling Talking Heads’ “Psycho Killer” is payoffsong.com’s best song of 2017. Gomez’s matured approach to pop, nuanced vocals, and iconic sample create a weird and irresistible moment of pop brilliance.
