2021-2021 songs. The 50 Best Songs of 2021: Soundtrack to a World Re-Emerging

What were the top songs that defined 2021. How did music reflect the world’s gradual re-emergence after a year of uncertainty. Which artists created the most impactful and memorable tracks of the year.

Table of Contents

The Musical Landscape of 2021: A Year of Revival and Reflection

2021 marked a significant shift in the global atmosphere as the world began to cautiously re-emerge from the shadows of uncertainty and social distancing. Music, as always, played a crucial role in capturing the zeitgeist of this transitional period. From introspective ballads to exuberant dance anthems, the year’s soundtrack reflected the complex emotions and experiences of a society in flux.

As we delve into the top songs of 2021, we’ll explore how artists across various genres managed to encapsulate the spirit of the times, providing solace, celebration, and everything in between. These tracks not only dominated charts but also resonated deeply with listeners, offering a musical accompaniment to the collective journey of rediscovery and reconnection.

Doja Cat’s “Woman”: Celebrating the Divine Feminine

Coming in at number 10 on our list is Doja Cat’s “Woman,” a track that exemplifies the artist’s innovative approach to pop music. How does this song stand out in Doja Cat’s discography? “Woman” blends Afrobeats with pop sensibilities, creating a sultry anthem that celebrates femininity in all its forms. The song showcases Doja Cat’s vocal versatility and her ability to seamlessly incorporate diverse musical influences into her work.

Despite the controversies that have sometimes surrounded Doja Cat, “Woman” serves as a testament to her undeniable talent and her impact on the contemporary pop landscape. The track’s success highlights the growing influence of Afrobeats in mainstream music and demonstrates Doja Cat’s skill in crafting songs that are both commercially appealing and artistically adventurous.

Morgan Wade’s “Wilder Days”: Nostalgia and Raw Emotion in Country Music

At number 9, we find Morgan Wade’s “Wilder Days,” a country-rock anthem that captures both the recklessness of youth and the bittersweet nostalgia for those carefree times. What makes this song so emotionally resonant? Wade’s ragged, powerful voice delivers lyrics that are at once specific and universally relatable, creating an instant connection with listeners.

The chorus of “Wilder Days” features one of the year’s most memorable lines: “YOU SAID YOU HATE THE SMELL OF CIGARETTE SMOKE!” This raw, emotive delivery encapsulates the song’s themes of longing and regret, while also showcasing Wade’s ability to craft lyrics that are both poetic and viscerally impactful. In a year that saw releases from established superstars, Wade’s breakout hit proved that newcomers could still make a significant impact on the music scene.

The Rise of Morgan Wade in Country Music

How did Morgan Wade manage to break through in such a competitive musical landscape? Her success can be attributed to several factors:

Authentic storytelling that resonates with a wide audience
A distinctive voice that sets her apart from other country artists
Skillful blending of country, rock, and pop influences
Lyrics that balance specificity with universal themes

Wade’s rise demonstrates the ongoing evolution of country music and the genre’s ability to embrace artists who bring fresh perspectives and sounds to the table.

El Alfa’s “La Mama de La Mama”: The Infectious Joy of Dembow

Securing the 8th spot on our list is “La Mama de La Mama” by El Alfa, featuring El Cherry Scom and CJ. This collaboration brings together Dominican and American rap styles to create a track that exudes pure, unadulterated joy. How does “La Mama de La Mama” exemplify the dembow genre? The song’s relentless pace, rapid-fire lyrics, and infectious beat are hallmarks of this Dominican musical style.

El Alfa’s falsetto may initially elicit laughter, but the irresistible energy of the track quickly turns that amusement into enthusiasm. The song’s ability to inspire repeated listens speaks to its effectiveness as a mood-lifter and party starter. In a year where many were seeking reasons to celebrate, “La Mama de La Mama” provided a much-needed dose of musical euphoria.

The Global Rise of Dembow

Why has dembow music gained such international popularity in recent years? Several factors have contributed to its rise:

Its high-energy beats make it perfect for dance clubs and parties
Collaborations between Latin American and U.S. artists have increased its exposure
Streaming platforms have made it easier for global audiences to discover new genres
The genre’s fusion of various musical styles appeals to diverse listeners

As “La Mama de La Mama” demonstrates, dembow’s infectious rhythms and joyous spirit have the power to transcend language barriers and cultural differences.

Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U”: The Pop-Punk Revival

Coming in at number 7 is Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U,” a track that marked a significant departure from her earlier releases and signaled the resurgence of pop-punk in mainstream music. How did this song impact Rodrigo’s career trajectory? After the success of her more introspective tracks “Drivers License” and “Deja Vu,” “Good 4 U” showcased Rodrigo’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres.

The song’s angsty lyrics and guitar-driven sound drew comparisons to Paramore’s “Misery Business,” sparking discussions about influence and originality in pop music. Despite these debates, “Good 4 U” undeniably struck a chord with listeners, its cathartic chorus and sharp lyrics perfectly capturing the frustration and bitterness of young heartbreak.

The Pop-Punk Renaissance in 2021

Why did pop-punk experience a resurgence in 2021? Several factors contributed to this trend:

Nostalgia for the sound among millennials who grew up with the genre
A desire for more guitar-driven, high-energy music after a subdued year
Collaborations between pop stars and established pop-punk artists
The genre’s themes of alienation and angst resonating with pandemic-era experiences

Rodrigo’s success with “Good 4 U” paved the way for other artists to incorporate pop-punk elements into their music, leading to a broader revival of the genre in mainstream pop.

City Girls’ “Twerkulator”: The Anthem of Hot Vax Summer

At number 6, we find “Twerkulator” by City Girls, a track that became the unofficial anthem of 2021’s “hot vax summer.” How did this song capture the mood of the moment? With its high-energy beat and confident lyrics, “Twerkulator” embodied the excitement and liberation many felt as social restrictions began to ease.

The song’s journey to release was not without obstacles. Initially leaked in 2020, “Twerkulator” faced clearance issues due to its prominent samples of classic dance tracks. However, its official release in 2021 proved to be perfectly timed, coinciding with a period of renewed optimism and desire for social connection.

The Art of Sampling in Hip-Hop

How does “Twerkulator” demonstrate the creative use of sampling in contemporary hip-hop? The track incorporates elements from two iconic dance songs:

“Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force
“The Percolator” by Cajmere

By reimagining these classic sounds, City Girls created a track that feels both fresh and nostalgic, bridging generational gaps and paying homage to dance music history. The success of “Twerkulator” highlights the ongoing importance of sampling as a tool for musical innovation and cultural dialogue in hip-hop.

YOASOBI’s “Monster”: J-Pop’s Global Breakthrough

Securing the 5th spot on our list is “Monster” by YOASOBI, a track that exemplifies the growing global appeal of J-pop. How has YOASOBI managed to achieve such widespread success? The duo’s ability to blend various musical styles, from pop and rock to electronic dance music, has resulted in a sound that resonates with listeners across cultural boundaries.

“Monster,” an English-language version of one of YOASOBI’s biggest hits, showcases the band’s signature style. The song’s intricate composition, featuring math rock riffs, jazzy runs, and EDM-inspired drops, demonstrates the duo’s musical prowess and their knack for creating catchy yet complex pop music.

The Rise of Anime and Its Impact on Music

Why has the connection between J-pop and anime become increasingly significant in recent years? Several factors have contributed to this trend:

The growing global popularity of anime has introduced international audiences to J-pop
Streaming platforms have made it easier for fans to access both anime and its associated music
The cinematic quality of J-pop often complements the visual storytelling of anime
Collaborations between musicians and anime productions create mutually beneficial exposure

“Monster” serving as the title song for the anime “Beastars” is a prime example of this synergistic relationship between J-pop and anime. As both industries continue to gain international recognition, we can expect to see more crossover successes like YOASOBI in the future.

Lucy Dacus’ “VBS”: Indie Rock’s Poetic Storytelling

At number 4, we find Lucy Dacus’ “VBS,” a masterclass in evocative songwriting within the indie rock genre. How does Dacus manage to create such vivid narratives in her music? Her ability to balance specific, personal details with universal themes allows listeners to connect with her stories on multiple levels.

“VBS” (which stands for Vacation Bible School) draws from Dacus’ own experiences at Christian camp, painting a picture of youthful piety undercut by currents of restlessness and nihilism. The song’s lyrics are rich with details that hint at a larger narrative, inviting listeners to fill in the gaps with their own imagination.

The Power of Narrative in Songwriting

Why do songs with strong narrative elements often resonate so deeply with listeners? Several factors contribute to the effectiveness of storytelling in music:

Narrative songs can evoke vivid imagery and emotions
Personal stories often touch on universal experiences and feelings
Detailed lyrics can transport listeners to specific times and places
Storytelling can add depth and complexity to musical compositions

Dacus’ skill in crafting these musical narratives has established her as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary indie rock. “VBS” exemplifies her ability to create songs that function almost like short stories set to music, offering listeners a rich, immersive experience.

The Continuing Evolution of Popular Music in 2021

As we reflect on the top songs of 2021, what trends and patterns emerge? The year’s music was characterized by a diverse range of sounds and themes, reflecting the complex emotions and experiences of a world in transition. From the nostalgic pop-punk revival to the global rise of genres like dembow and J-pop, 2021’s musical landscape was marked by both innovation and a return to familiar sounds.

Artists across genres demonstrated a willingness to experiment and push boundaries, whether through genre-blending tracks like Doja Cat’s “Woman” or narrative-driven indie rock like Lucy Dacus’ “VBS.” At the same time, many of the year’s biggest hits tapped into a collective desire for joy and celebration after a period of uncertainty and isolation.

The Impact of Streaming on Musical Diversity

How has the dominance of streaming platforms influenced the music industry and listener habits? Several key effects can be observed:

Increased exposure for niche genres and international artists
Greater emphasis on individual tracks rather than full albums
The ability for songs to gain popularity through viral moments and social media
More frequent collaborations between artists from different genres and cultural backgrounds

As we move forward, it’s likely that the boundaries between musical genres and national scenes will continue to blur, leading to even more diverse and innovative sounds in the years to come.

The top songs of 2021 not only provided the soundtrack to a world re-emerging from a global crisis but also pointed towards the future of popular music. As artists continue to push creative boundaries and listeners become increasingly open to new sounds and styles, the musical landscape promises to remain vibrant, diverse, and ever-evolving.

The 10 Best Songs of 2021

When we remember 2021, few things will be more evocative than the music that provided the soundtrack to the world as we re-entered it after a long year filled with uncertainty and social distancing. This year, there was a song for every occasion, every event, and every emotion—from the reflective sounds of Lucy Dacus’ “VBS” to the exuberant strains of Farruko’s triumphant banger, “Pepas,” here are the songs we couldn’t stop listening to in 2021.

10. “Woman,” Doja Cat

Whatever you may think of Doja Cat’s Internet controversies or viral hits, there’s no denying her immense talent or her fearless, experimental influence on the pop music landscape. This is seen most cogently with “Woman,” a sultry Afrobeats-driven anthem for the divine feminine within every woman. The track is a sonic delight, showing off not only Doja’s flexible vocals to great effect but featuring the versatility of genres that she’s managed to not only master but meld with her music.

9. “Wilder Days,” Morgan Wade

In a year in which Justin Bieber, Adele and ABBA put out music, it’s nevertheless hard to find a more eminently screamable chorus lyric released this year than “YOU SAID YOU HATE THE SMELL OF CIGARETTE SMOKE!” The line is the handiwork of the rising country singer Morgan Wade, whose ragged voice perfectly matches her Springsteen-esque material; the song somehow captures both the glorious recklessness of youth and the pangs of nostalgia for such chaos at the same time.

8. “La Mama de La Mama,” El Alfa

No song this year matches the silliness nor the pure unadulterated euphoria of “La Mama de La Mama,” a collaboration between the Dominican rappers El Alfa and El Cherry Scom and the Staten Island rapper CJ. The track is a prime example of the Dominican genre dembow—in which beats and syllables hurtle along at breakneck speed—and shows the breakout star El Alfa at his loosest and most joyous. You might laugh at first at his ridiculous falsetto, and then you might blast the song 20 times in a row due to its relentless exuberance.

7. “Good 4 U,” Olivia Rodrigo

After the releases of the maudlin “drivers license” and the wistful “deja vu” in early 2021, it seemed like the ascendant pop star Olivia Rodrigo had picked a lane: a disciple of the Lorde, Maggie Rogers and Billie Eilish School of Morose Interiority, if you will. And then she swerved hard left with “good 4 u,” a sulking, sneering guitar anthem that proved her versatility, cultural acuity, lyrical wit and fearlessness to zag. Was the song a near carbon copy of Paramore’s “Misery Business”? Sure. Was it also a transcendent suckerpunch of a song that re-injected some much-needed pop-punk brashness into the center of the mainstream? Absolutely.

6.

“Twerkulator,” City Girls

During this hot vax summer, there was no hot girl anthem more fitting than the City Girls’ “Twerkulator,” a bombastic, high-energy track that was impossible not to booty pop or at least bust a move to while listening to it. While the song initially leaked ahead of the City Girls’ 2020 album, City on Lock, due to clearance issues (it prominently samples two classic dance samples, Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force’s “Planet Rock” and Cajmere’s “The Percolator,” respectively), the song didn’t make its official debut until 2021. Upon its release, however, its infectious beat and the brash, braggadocious charms of JT and Yung Miami confirmed that it was, indeed, finally “time for the Twerkulator.”

5. “Monster,” Yoasobi

The J-pop duo YOASOBI has taken Japan by storm over the last couple years, topping several charts, accruing billions of streams and winning this year’s “Artist of the Year” at MTV’s Video Music Awards Japan. “Monster,” an English language version of one of their biggest hits, thrums along with the band’s trademark vivacity. It seamlessly integrates a giant pop hook with furious math rock riffs, jazzy chromatic runs and a seismic EDM-esque drop. Given the song’s yearning, cinematic nature, it’s wholly unsurprising that it served as the title song to the anime Beastars.

4. “VBS,” Lucy Dacus

The best lyrics aren’t just beautifully poetic or descriptive, but also conjure a whole universe that lies just beyond them and out of reach. The singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus is a master at this craft: she writes vivid scenes that nonetheless force the listeners to use their imaginations to fill in the narrative gaps on their own. Her song “VBS” takes its story from Dacus’ own experiences at Christian camp, where darker undercurrents of restlessness and nihilism course below her piety. The song overflows with details that beg to be explored in a novel or feature film: “Your dad keeps his sleeves down through the summer for a reason / Your mother wears her makeup extra thick for a reason,” she sings. Meanwhile, the song builds to one of the most epic musical climaxes of the year, which nods to the metal band Slayer.

Sign up for More to the Story, TIME’s weekly entertainment newsletter, to get the context you need for the pop culture you love.

3. “All Too Well (Taylor’s Version),” Taylor Swift

When Taylor Swift announced she was re-recording her 2012 album, Red, “All Too Well” was a hotly anticipated track. The song, an achingly beautiful breakup ballad that has received cult classic status thanks to fan speculation that it’s about Swift’s split with Jake Gyllenhaal, has, in 2021, matured and grown into a 10-minute epic with new, keenly recognized lyrics that not only explores first love, but questions the imbalanced power dynamics of the relationship. The extended version is an improvement on a design that Swift has made her own over the course of her career—that is, ballads on the ins and outs of love—but with Taylor’s version of “All Too Well,” we bear witness to a woman who is reclaiming her narrative and taking up her time and space. It’s a journey that’s well worth 10 minutes.

2. “Essence,” WizKid ft. Justin Bieber and Tems

Wizkid’s sultry “Essence” was already a standout track on his 2020 album, Made in Lagos, thanks to a dulcet assist from fellow Nigerian artist Tems, but the Afrobeats star’s hit became ubiquitous in 2021, after he released a remix of featuring Justin Bieber alongside Tems. The song’s seductive beat and lush vocals make it one of the most easy, luxurious sonic experiences of the year, an ode to longing, to lust, and yes, to love.

1. “Pepas,” Farruko

No song better captured the supreme ecstasy of re-emerging in the world after a long year of social distancing than the exhilarating, exuberant “Pepas,” from the Puerto Rican artist Farruko. The dance track, which relies on an intoxicating reggaeton beat and an energizing shot of guaracha (an offshoot of Latin America’s tribal house music), begins with slow crooning before devolving into a triumphant chorus, spiked with a healthy dose of EDM. The ecstatic appeal of “Pepas” has propelled Farruko to the top charts, but its true effect can be felt in the instant burst of energy it summons when it’s blasted out of the window of a car driving by or played on a packed dance floor.

Write to Cady Lang at [email protected].

35 Best Songs of 2021

“2010” — Earl Sweatshirt

View full content on YouTube

Earl Sweatshirt comes and goes as he pleases, making music when inspiration strikes. Traditional form, structure, and even releases aren’t really part of the style of the artist born as Thebe Kgositsile. After parting ways with Columbia Records after 2018’s Some Rap Songs, he released the alluringly short Feet of Clay the following year. On “2010,” he enters the track in mid thought with a fluttering synth: “I’ma need a bigger bag for the cohort / Tryna make a millionaire out of slum dogs / Bet that, head crack, blunt force,” he raps. It’s an opening line that acts as an instant reminder that Earl is one of hip-hop’s most mind-boggling lyricists, balancing abstract thought with clever wordplay and vivid personal memories. —Matt Miller

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

“The Future” — Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats

View full content on YouTube

Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats broke out with their particular, you-can’t-help-but-dance brand of rock n’ roll back in 2015. But at the outset of last year, the frontman wasn’t sure he had any more happy songs in him. Going through a divorce, he told Esquire he wouldn’t get the group back together until the pep returned, and instead favored more sedate solo fare releases. That changed in 2021, and this, the first song on their return LP, announced a boisterous, undeniable return. —MV

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

“Keep An Eye on Dan” — ABBA

View full content on YouTube

ABBA just released their first album in 40 years, it contains a song called “Keep An Eye On Dan,” and we’re just supposed to go on like everything is normal? Preposterous. All of the new LP, Voyage, is a beautiful and bizarre ride into the interior lives of four divorced bajillionaire Swedish pop geniuses—or at least we think so, the one thing we know for sure is that none of these people has spoken a word of English since 1981. After a few dozen listens, we’re not sure whether Dan is the ex-husband, or the child who’s being dropped off for a weekend with a new stepmother, or what. We also don’t care. Listen to it once, know that you’ll be screaming “KEEP AN EYE ON DAN” for days afterwards, and thank us later. —Dave Holmes