1. Dynamite
Okay, "Dynamite" isn't just a song, it's a global pop phenomenon. BTS absolutely smashed the idol-pop blueprint with this, proving a Korean group could own the Western charts without even trying that hard. It's pure, unadulterated serotonin in audio form. That disco-funk groove? Still infectious. It’s the ultimate mood booster, a masterclass in how to craft universal appeal while keeping your core identity. A benchmark for post-hypermodern pop.
2. Blinding Lights
The Weeknd really tapped into that nostalgic-yet-futuristic vibe with "Blinding Lights." It’s pure 80s synth-pop reimagined for a hyper-speed era. This track transcended radio, becoming a TikTok staple and cementing its place as a cultural touchstone. Abel Tesfaye just knows how to craft an earworm that feels both fresh and instantly iconic. It's the kind of track that makes you wanna cruise down a neon-lit highway at 2 AM, even if you're just stuck in traffic. Iconic.
3. Calm Down
Rema's "Calm Down" was already a banger, but that Selena Gomez remix just *sent* it. It amplified the Afrobeats wave globally, showing how a perfect cross-cultural collab can explode. Rema’s effortless flow and Selena’s breezy delivery created this undeniable synergy. It's a perfect example of a local star's distinct sound getting a hyper-accelerated global platform without losing its core flavor. Still fresh, still vibey.
4. As It Was
Harry Styles really nailed the bittersweet pop anthem with "As It Was." It’s got that undeniable 80s synth-pop shimmer but feels so deeply personal. This track proved his star power wasn't a fluke, cementing him as a solo force. It’s catchy without being saccharine, a perfect soundtrack to both melancholic introspection and spontaneous dance. The way it dominated charts globally felt organic, a true testament to its universal appeal. Still hits.
5. Flowers
Miley Cyrus came back swinging with "Flowers." It’s the ultimate self-love anthem, turning a breakup narrative into pure, unadulterated empowerment. The track dominated airwaves and playlists, resonating with everyone who's ever had to pick themselves up. It's got that disco-pop shimmer, but with a raw, Miley edge. This wasn't just a song; it was a global moment of collective catharsis. Still feels good.
6. Anti-Hero (Remixes)
Taylor Swift’s "Anti-Hero" was already a huge pop moment, but the *remixes* truly showed its versatility. The Bleachers version, the ILLENIUM one—they each twisted the original’s anxious energy into something new. It’s a masterclass in how an artist can leverage remix culture to extend a song's lifecycle and reach different fanbases. Taylor's lyrical self-awareness, combined with fresh production takes, kept this track hyper-relevant across multiple ecosystems. Still exploring its depth.
7. MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)
Lil Nas X is a genius at crafting moments, and "MONTERO" was a cultural earthquake. This track wasn't just a song; it was a multi-platform art project, blending explicit visuals with a fiercely catchy beat. It challenged norms, sparked conversations, and solidified his place as a pop provocateur. The way it leveraged social media and controversy to amplify its message was peak hypermodern artistry. Still iconic, still pushing boundaries.
8. Essence (feat. Justin Bieber & Tems)
Wizkid's "Essence" was already *the* vibe, but the Justin Bieber and Tems feature amplified it to stratospheric levels. It’s the quintessential chill summer anthem that still feels fresh. Tems’ vocals are just angelic, and Bieber’s addition felt organic, not forced. This track showed the world the undeniable power of Afrobeats as a global genre, effortlessly crossing cultural lines with its smooth, hypnotic rhythm. Pure perfection.
