Ten years ago, the music scene witnessed the birth of a phenomenon. On July 27, 2012, The X-Factor stage became the launching pad for five incredibly talented teenagers: Camila Cabello, Dinah Jane Hansen, Normani Kordei, Ally Brooke Hernandez, and Lauren Jauregui. Simon Cowell, aiming to replicate the magic he conjured with One Direction, united them, and Fifth Harmony was born.
From that pivotal moment until their announced hiatus in March 2018, Fifth Harmony embarked on a thrilling journey marked by intense highs and lows, relentless touring, and an unwavering fanbase deeply invested in their every move.
After securing third place on The X-Factor, the group debuted with the infectious EP Better Together in 2013. This was followed by their full-length album Reflection in 2015, which featured chart-climbers like “Worth It” and “Sledgehammer.” Their sophomore album, 7/27, dropped in 2016, propelled by the massive hit “Work From Home,” solidifying their place in pop music.
However, 2016 also brought turmoil as Camila Cabello’s departure shook the group. The exit, announced through a public statement, was far from amicable, leading to a series of public exchanges between Cabello and the remaining members.
As a quartet, Fifth Harmony released one more album and toured internationally, notably missing a significant U.S. tour. They also subtly addressed the Cabello split during a Video Music Awards performance before entering their hiatus. Meanwhile, Cabello launched a successful solo career, highlighted by the chart-dominating track “Havana.”
A decade on from their formation, all five members are thriving as solo artists. Cabello boasts three albums and a starring role in Cinderella. Normani has collaborated with music heavyweights and become a fashion icon. Lauren Jauregui continues her musical journey, Ally Brooke authored a memoir and appeared on Dancing With the Stars, and Dinah Jane is gearing up for a music comeback.
With a rich discography that includes three albums, multiple versions of their debut EP, soundtrack contributions, a collaboration with the legendary Juan Gabriel, and even a song for Kohl’s, Fifth Harmony has left an indelible mark. Harmonizers worldwide have countless opinions on their best work. This curated list of 27 top tracks celebrates the versatility, confidence, emotional depth, allure, and empowering messages that define the music of Fifth Harmony, arguably one of the most impactful girl groups of their generation.
27. ‘This Is How We Roll’ (2015)
Echoing the sampling trend prevalent on Reflection, “This Is How We Roll” cleverly borrows from will.i.am and Britney Spears’ “Scream and Shout.” Spears herself had judged the group on The X-Factor a year prior to its release, adding a layer of meta-commentary. This track serves as a more mature evolution of their earlier song “Me and My Girls.” Camila Cabello’s playful “We gon’ be sexy, sexy, yeah/Me and my girls, girls, girls,” leading into her signature high notes, became a live performance highlight and remains a fan favorite for its danceable energy.
26. ‘That’s My Girl’ (2016)
Fifth Harmony – That's My Girl
The opening track of 7/27, “That’s My Girl,” bursts with unapologetic girl power. A Rolling Stone review aptly described it as a “joy-saturated back-pat for all the independent women,” set against a radio-friendly beat. The song truly ignites during Normani’s commanding rap-sung chorus: “Destiny said it, you got to get up and get it/Get mad independent and don’t you ever forget it.” The accompanying music video, directed by Hannah Lux Davis, is a visually striking post-apocalyptic spectacle. While the song is undeniably powerful, opinions on the album art remain divided.
25. ‘No Way’ (2016)
“No Way” is undeniably Lauren Jauregui’s moment to shine. After being somewhat underutilized on Reflection, as noted by Genius regarding her vocal lines, Lauren takes center stage on this 7/27 deluxe edition track. She delivers a captivating performance on one of the group’s most emotionally resonant songs, singing, “Everyone comes with scars, but you can love them away.”
24. ‘Top Down’ (2015)
Fifth Harmony – Top Down
Fifth Harmony consistently delivered infectious bops, and “Top Down” is a prime example. This track, with its simple yet catchy lyrics about cruising through the city, pays homage to Guns N’ Roses’ “Paradise City” in the opening verse. It also boasts the Instagram-caption-worthy line, “Passed out real and I woke up realer.” Adding to its appeal is a memorable saxophone riff, reminiscent of Ariana Grande’s hit “Problem.”
23. ‘Not That Kinda Girl’ feat. Missy Elliott (2016)
This track is a missed opportunity for a single release. “Not That Kinda Girl” is a funky and vibrant closer to the standard edition of 7/27, elevated by a standout guest verse from Missy Elliott. It’s clear that this song was designed to showcase Normani’s talents. Fans fondly recall her spectacular solo dance intro to the track during live performances, highlighting her stage presence and artistry.
22. ‘We Know’ (2015)
Fifth Harmony – We Know
“We Know” showcases Fifth Harmony’s vocal prowess and confidence in a raw, a cappella R&B setting. Co-written by Victoria Monet, a key songwriter for the group, the track emphasizes harmonies and individual vocal strengths more than any of their previous songs. It’s a testament to their vocal talent and ability to create compelling music even without heavy instrumentation.
21. ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’ (2017)
“Don’t Say You Love Me” is a ballad that resonates deeply with Harmonizers. Released shortly after Fifth Harmony’s final performance before their hiatus, this powerful song evokes strong emotions. The music video concludes with each member walking out of a room individually, leaving a door slightly ajar – a poignant moment that fuels fans’ enduring hope for a reunion.
20. ‘Deliver’ (2017)
Fifth Harmony – Deliver
“Deliver” is a standout track from the post-Camila era, showcasing Fifth Harmony’s ability to evolve and maintain their musical excellence. With soul and R&B influences, it’s one of their most cohesive songs. While each member contributes beautifully, Dinah Jane’s vocal performance particularly shines, a recurring highlight throughout their self-titled album. The music video adds to the song’s impact, drawing inspiration from the iconic Supremes.
19. ‘Tú Eres Lo Que Yo Quiero’ (2013)
Fifth Harmony expanded their Better Together EP with Juntos, a Spanish-language reimagining of the original tracks. “Tú Eres Lo Que Yo Quiero,” the Spanish version of the EP’s title track, emerges as a standout. Ally Brooke takes the lead, delivering impressive vocals in the chorus and high notes. Despite only Camila and Lauren being native Spanish speakers, the entire group flawlessly executes the Spanish lyrics. For fans of Juntos, “Que Bailes Conmigo Hoy” also deserves recognition.
18. ‘I Lied’ (2016)
Fifth Harmony – I Lied
“I Lied” sees Fifth Harmony venturing into EDM territory. This deep cut from 7/27 features Camila in a prominent role and includes a notable bridge that references Mary J. Blige. Dinah’s lines, “You got that real love/That text in the morning, that real love/How Mary J. call it, that real love/We got real love,” pay homage to the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul and add depth to the song’s emotional landscape.
17. ‘Down’ feat. Gucci Mane (2017)
“Down” marked Fifth Harmony’s first release as a four-piece, and it played it somewhat safe. With a catchy, repetitive chorus, it draws comparisons to their mega-hit “Work From Home.” Like Ty Dolla $ign on “WFH,” Gucci Mane delivers a memorable verse. However, the song’s VMAs performance became iconic, particularly for Normani’s breathtaking dance solo and splits.
16. ‘Like Mariah’ feat. Tyga (2015)
Fifth Harmony – Like Mariah
“Like Mariah” is a loving tribute to the iconic Mariah Carey. Sampling Carey’s classic “Always Be My Baby” and referencing her music throughout, this R&B-infused track honors the R&B queen beautifully. Dinah Jane’s impressive whistle notes in the outro further solidify the Mariah Carey connection. A 2015 Rolling Stone review highlighted it as the “standout” track from their debut album Reflection.
15. ‘Worth It’ feat. Kid Ink (2015)
Horns are a surefire sign of a bop, and “Worth It” delivers. The song’s hook, with its horn-driven sound, is reminiscent of Jason Derulo’s 2013 hit “Talk Dirty,” which is unsurprising as both tracks share producer Ori Kaplan. Written by Muni Long, “Worth It” is accompanied by a music video where the members take over Wall Street, symbolizing their ambition and power. Reaching Number 12 on the Hot 100, it became a radio staple in 2015 and remains one of their most recognizable and enduring singles.
14. ‘He Like That’ (2017)
Fifth Harmony – He Like That
Sampling MC Hammer, “He Like That” is a foray into sultry, R&B territory for Fifth Harmony. The second single from their final album, it plays perfectly to Dinah and Normani’s strengths, both musically and visually, with a choreography-heavy, undeniably sexy music video. The infectious guitar riff and overall vibe evoke the early, beloved music of Rihanna.
13. ‘Sin Contrato,’ Maluma feat. Fifth Harmony (2015)
In 2015, Maluma was a rising star in Latin music, while Fifth Harmony was a firmly established pop act with strong Latin roots among its members. Following a performance at the 2015 Latin Grammy Awards, they collaborated on “Sin Contrato.” This remixed reggaetón track elevated Maluma’s original song into a successful Spanglish crossover hit, showcasing their versatility and appeal to both pop and Latin audiences.
12. ‘Angel’ (2017)
Fifth Harmony – Angel
“Angel” gained iconic status thanks to Fifth Harmony’s unforgettable 2017 VMA performance. The staged removal of a fifth member before Normani’s powerful declaration, “Who said I was an angel?” became a viral moment in pop music history. It served as a clear message of strength and reinvention from the four-piece group. The song itself features synth-heavy EDM production from industry giants Poo Bear and Skrillex, making it a standout on Fifth Harmony. Ally Brooke delivers a rap-sung verse, and Dinah and Lauren share a captivating pre-chorus: “The original me wouldn’t fuck with ya/And I was beginning to fuck with ya.”
11. ‘Everlasting Love’ (2015)
“Everlasting Love” reimagines late Nineties R&B sounds with a piano-driven melody and head-nodding percussion, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Sonically, it evokes a blend of Destiny’s Child and Mariah Carey, with Normani’s sweet vocals in the bridge channeling Beyoncé’s energy. While the lyrics might lean towards cliché (“I don’t even know you, but I know that I can’t wait to kiss you”), this simplicity contributes to the song’s overall fun and charm, characteristic of much of Fifth Harmony’s music.
10. ‘BO$$’ (2014)
Fifth Harmony – Boss
“C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T, that’s me/I’m confident.” With shout-outs to Michelle Obama and Oprah, “BO$$” served as the perfect transition single between their teen-pop EP Better Together and their more mature debut album. It stands as one of their strongest female empowerment anthems, with lines like “pledge allegiance to my independent girls in here” and pop culture references like wanting a “Kanye not a Ray J.” The only minor drawback? The absence of a verse from Dinah.
9. ‘Who Are You’ (2013)
Surprisingly, Fifth Harmony’s most poignant ballad comes from their early EP. “Who Are You” narrates a story of reflection on the inconsistencies of a troubled relationship. The piano-backed melody highlights Dinah and Ally’s vocal power, especially in the chorus and bridge: “Who are you today? Will you be the sun or the pouring rain?”
8. ‘Sledgehammer’ (2014)
Fifth Harmony – Sledgehammer
“Sledgehammer” marked Fifth Harmony’s breakthrough into mainstream success, largely thanks to co-writer Meghan Trainor (who also contributed “Suga Mama” and “Brave Honest Beautiful”) and production by Dr. Luke. It’s a quintessential radio-ready synth-pop single with an instantly memorable chorus, driving percussion, and Camila’s distinctive vocal style. The lyrics, “If you could feel my heart beat now, it would hit you like a sledgehammer,” perfectly capture the song’s energetic and impactful nature.
7. ‘Miss Movin’ On’ (2013)
There’s a heartwarming video capturing the raw emotion of Fifth Harmony, newly formed, hearing “Miss Movin’ On” on the radio for the first time. Tears, hugs, and radiant smiles mark their realization that their journey was truly beginning. Ten years later, “Miss Movin’ On” evokes nostalgia while retaining a timeless energy. This empowering anthem about moving past a breakup was the ideal introduction to the girl group that would define the 2010s. Lauren’s chorus, “So call me, call me, call me/Miss movin’ on,” even experienced a TikTok resurgence recently, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
6. ‘Lonely Night’ (2017)
Fifth Harmony – Lonely Nights
“Lonely Night” exemplifies Fifth Harmony’s growth and cohesion as a four-member group. This sexy R&B track, co-written by Dinah and Normani, stands out as the best song on their self-titled album. Dinah’s powerful vocals anchor the song, especially her stunning whistle notes in the bridge. Instead of chasing another “Work From Home” with “Down,” “Lonely Night” could have redefined them as versatile R&B artists. The chorus, with Dinah’s confident delivery of “If you don’t treat ya mama right, bye-bye, bye-bye/If you got another chick on the side, bye-bye, bye-bye,” is both catchy and empowering.
5. ‘Going Nowhere’ (2015)
“Going Nowhere” highlights Fifth Harmony’s tendency to keep some of their best tracks as deluxe edition exclusives. With its EDM influences and signature synth handclaps from Reflection, the song shines with its singalong chorus. Muni Long’s lyrics about holding onto a partner on the verge of leaving, “Sit yourself down ’cause you know you gon’ stay/Boy, you better listen to the words I say,” are both assertive and relatable.
4. ‘Work From Home’ feat. Ty Dolla $ign (2016)
Fifth Harmony – Work From Home
The lead single from 7/27, “Work From Home,” propelled Fifth Harmony to global stardom. With its infectious melodies, finger snaps, suggestive undertones, and trap-infused pop beats, it became a cultural phenomenon. It made girl group history, becoming the first Top Five single by a female group on the Billboard Hot 100 since the Pussycat Dolls’ “Buttons” a decade prior. Ty Dolla $ign’s bridge perfectly complements the track, and the construction site-themed video, featuring attractive, hardworking individuals, remains one of the sexiest pop videos ever. Originally titled “Work,” it was renamed after Rihanna’s song of the same name was released. The three-word title inadvertently led to a meme resurgence in 2020 as “work from home” became the new normal during the pandemic.
3. ‘Big Bad Wolf’ (2016)
Ranking “Big Bad Wolf” at Number Three feels like justice for an unreleased gem. Despite being left off the standard 7/27 tracklist and only appearing on the Japanese deluxe edition, “Big Bad Wolf” is a standout. Ally’s sultry opening verse, followed by Normani’s sassy pre-chorus, and Dinah and Camila’s memorable chorus, “Cause if you wanna talk, baby, use your hands/If you wanna go make a move, you can/If you want a shot, baby, cock and pull/If you’re gonna bite, be a big bad wolf,” create an undeniably captivating track. After a leaked version circulated online, the group performed it on tour, complete with their signature sexy choreography. Like other unreleased Fifth Harmony tracks like “Voicemail,” “All Again,” and “Double Vision,” “Big Bad Wolf” had hit potential.
2. ‘Reflection’ (2015)
Fifth Harmony – Reflection
“Reflection” embodies the essence of Fifth Harmony. Its empowering lyrics and hip-pop production make it the quintessential Fifth Harmony track. As the title track of their debut album, it encapsulates the confidence and sass that defined their early sound. It blends effortless “bad-bitch” energy with pop culture references to the now-archaic Vine. Normani’s suggestive opening “M-hmm” and flirty chorus (“Where you from? Must be heaven”) lead to the self-assured reveal: “Boy, I ain’t talking about you, I’m talking to my own reflection.” It’s a perfect song for any dance floor, regardless of age.
1. ‘All in My Head (Flex)’ feat. Fetty Wap (2016)
Topping the list is “All in My Head (Flex),” a track that perfectly captures Fifth Harmony’s strengths and versatility. With Dinah Jane’s Tongan heritage, tapping into tropical vibes was a natural fit. Interpolating reggae icon Mad Cobra’s 1992 hit “Flex (Time to Have Sex)” in the chorus, “All in My Head” served as the ideal beach-ready follow-up to “Work From Home.” Fifth Harmony excelled at reimagining past musical styles, and this flirty song, despite its somewhat dated Fetty Wap feature, remains timeless. Dinah’s catchy hook, the danceable chorus, and the visually stunning beachside video solidify its place as their finest and most quintessential Fifth Harmony moment. The song, co-written by the group, anchors 7/27 and continues to resonate as their ultimate masterpiece.
