Top 10 Popular Culture Songs of the Past Decade
Popular culture has always been an integral part of our lives, creating a collective identity for us as a society. And music has always been at the forefront of popular culture, reflecting the mood, trends, and aspirations of the masses. As we enter the new decade, let’s take a look at the top 10 popular culture songs of the past decade that have defined our generation.
1. Old Town Road by Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
The crossover hit that broke all records and barriers, Old Town Road, was a cultural phenomenon that took the world by storm. The song, originally released independently on the internet, became viral due to the TikTok app, where users created a dance challenge video to it. This led to a major-label deal and a remix featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, which propelled it to the top of the charts. The song’s infectious mix of hip-hop and country music, catchy lyrics, and bold themes of identity and inclusivity from a young black queer artist spoke to people across generations and cultures.
2. Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Uptown Funk was the ultimate party anthem of the decade that got everybody grooving with its irresistibly funky and groovy beats. The song’s retro-inspired sound, inspired by the likes of Prince and The Gap Band, revived the classic funk genre for the modern era, with Bruno Mars’s electrifying vocals and Mark Ronson’s production genius. The song’s music video, featuring a star-studded cast of dancers and a vintage aesthetic, also became a viral sensation.
3. Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran
Thinking Out Loud was the love song of the decade that captured hearts and playlists around the world. The song’s romantic lyrics, combined with Ed Sheeran’s soulful vocals and acoustic guitar, created an old-school charm that appealed to all ages and backgrounds. The song’s music video, shot in a ballroom with professional dancers, also showcased Sheeran’s dancing skills and added to the song’s nostalgic feel.
4. Blinding Lights by The Weeknd
Blinding Lights was the retro-infused pop hit of the decade that propelled The Weeknd to superstardom. The song’s 80s-inspired synth sound, reminiscent of artists like Michael Jackson and Prince, combined with the Weeknd’s falsetto vocals and high-energy performance, created a perfect formula for instant success. The song’s music video, shot as a high-speed car chase through downtown Los Angeles, also became a visual feast for fans.
5. Royals by Lorde
Royals was the anti-pop pop hit of the decade that challenged the norms and stereotypes of mainstream music. The song’s minimalist production, combined with Lorde’s deadpan delivery and subversive lyrics, created a unique sound that stood out from the crowd. The song’s critique of consumerism and materialism, and its celebration of simple pleasures and individuality, also resonated with a new generation of listeners.
6. Happy by Pharrell Williams
Happy was the feel-good hit of the decade that spread happiness and joy across the world. The song’s upbeat and optimistic lyrics, combined with Pharrell William’s infectious vocals and catchy melodies, became an instant anthem for positivity. The song’s music video, featuring various people dancing and being happy around the world, also became a viral phenomenon that inspired countless imitations.
7. Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
Shake It Off was the self-empowerment hit of the decade that encouraged people to be true to themselves and ignore the haters. The song’s upbeat and catchy pop sound, combined with Taylor Swift’s bold and playful attitude, created a perfect pop package that spoke to her fans. The song’s music video, featuring Swift’s different personas and dancing styles, also showcased her versatility and sense of humor.
8. This Is America by Childish Gambino
This Is America was the political and social commentary hit of the decade that addressed the issues of racism, police brutality, and gun violence. The song’s fusion of hip-hop, gospel, and trap music, combined with Childish Gambino’s fierce and poignant lyrics and performance, created a powerful and provocative message that sparked discussions and debates. The song’s music video, featuring symbolic and disturbing imagery of American history and culture, also became a visual manifesto for the Black Lives Matter movement.
9. The Hills by The Weeknd
The Hills was the dark and mysterious hit of the decade that showcased The Weeknd’s artistry and persona. The song’s moody and atmospheric sound, combined with The Weeknd’s haunting and sensual vocals, created a unique and addictive vibe that drew fans in. The song’s music video, featuring The Weeknd being chased and hunted in a forest, also added to the song’s mysterious and enigmatic appeal.
10. Rolling in the Deep by Adele
Rolling in the Deep was the emotional and stirring hit of the decade that showcased Adele’s powerhouse vocals and songwriting ability. The song’s soulful and bluesy sound, combined with Adele’s raw and honest lyrics and performance, created a timeless and classic appeal that resonated with fans. The song’s music video, featuring Adele belting out the song in an abandoned house, also added to the song’s haunting and intense vibe.
In conclusion, these ten popular culture songs of the past decade have left an indelible mark on our musical landscape and cultural identity. They reflect the diverse and evolving tastes and values of our society, as well as the artists’ creativity and innovation. Whether it’s through dance, love, nostalgia, empowerment, or social commentary, these songs have touched our hearts and souls, giving us a soundtrack to our life stories.
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