The 2000s were a transformative decade for music, blending various genres and introducing new sounds that shaped the musical landscape. From pop to rock, hip-hop to R&B, the 2000s produced countless hits that remain iconic to this day. In this article, you’ll explore the most memorable songs from the early 2000s to 2010, learn about the artists behind these tracks, and discover the impact these songs had on the music industry. Whether you’re looking to reminisce or find new tunes to add to your playlist, this comprehensive guide will have you covered.
Early 2000s Songs
The early 2000s marked a significant shift in popular music. The grunge era was winding down, and a new wave of alternative rock, pop-punk, and indie bands was emerging. This era produced some of the most influential music of the past two decades.
While there are plenty of bands that made their mark, here are some of the most prominent:
Alternative Rock: The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferdinand, The Killers
Pop-Punk: Blink-182, Fall Out Boy, Green Day, Paramore
Indie Rock: Arcade Fire, The Shins, Vampire Weekend
Nu-Metal: Linkin Park, Korn, Slipknot
Other notable mentions: Coldplay, Maroon 5, Kings of Leon, Foo Fighters
50 P!nk, “Get The Party Started” (2001)
Originally intended for Madonna, “Get The Party Started” became an infectious dance-pop anthem and the song that catapulted Pink into international stardom. It reached number one in several countries and became P!nk’s biggest-selling song at the time. It is one of the best songs of the early 2000s. The song left a mark on P!nk’s music career.
The song’s confident and energetic vibe resonated with listeners, and it was one of the early 2000s hits. “Get The Party Started” became a symbol of female empowerment and independence.
We love
We love the song’s infectious energy and P!nk’s charisma.
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49 “Music” by Madonna, (2000)
Released in 2000, Madonna’s “Music” was an instant classic that defined the early 2000s pop music scene. This catchy electropop track marked a bold departure from Madonna’s previous work, showcasing a fresh, energetic sound that resonated with fans and critics alike. It quickly climbed the top lists, becoming one of the most recognizable songs of the era.
The song’s birth was inspired by a Sting concert Madonna attended. The energy and rhythm of the performance sparked her creativity, leading to the creation of this upbeat anthem.
We love
We love the unique blend of pop and electronic elements that defined the song’s signature style, which was changed from what we were used to from Madonna. And we love Ali G’s presence in the music video!
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48 “Fallin” by Alicia Keys (2001)
Released in 2001, “Fallin'” was a solo effort by Alicia Keys. She wrote and produced “Fallin'” entirely on her own, showcasing her incredible talent and artistry. Her piano playing is a standout feature, adding depth and richness to the song.
This soulful ballad quickly climbed the charts, becoming a signature song for the young singer-songwriter. It was the lead single from her debut album, “Songs in A Minor,” which also became a massive success.
“Fallin'” climbed to the first spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned numerous awards, including multiple Grammys.
We love
We love Alica Keys’ powerful vocals and the song’s strong emotions.
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47 “Hard to Explain” by The Strokes (2001)
The Strokes’ “Hard to Explain” is a classic rock song from the early 2000s. It was one of the first hits of the garage rock revival. Unlike many polished and overproduced songs of the time, “Hard to Explain” is simple and energetic, with catchy guitar riffs that everyone recognizes. The song’s theme was easily relatable, about feeling confused and young, and fans quickly caught on.
We love
Like the rest of the fans, we love “Hard to Explain” youthful energy. “Hard to Explain” is a timeless classic that still rocks today.
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46 “Hey Ya!” by OutKast (2003)
“Hey Ya!” by OutKast, released in 2003 on their album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” is a standout track written, produced, and performed by André 3000. The song uniquely blends funk, rock, and pop, and its music video, inspired by The Beatles’ 1964 “The Ed Sullivan Show” performance, features André 3000 playing all the band members.
“Hey Ya!” was number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks and won a Best Urban/Alternative Performance Grammy.
We love
We love the cheerful energy of the song and catchy lines like “Hey ya!” and “Shake it like a Polaroid picture.”
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45 “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera (2002)
Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter” is a powerful anthem that resonated deeply with fans in the early 2000s. This era, marked by its vibrant pop culture and great music, provided the perfect backdrop for this empowering track. The song showcases Aguilera’s incredible vocal range and versatility, blending rock, pop, and R&B elements.
We love
This is one of the Aguilera’s songs with strong messages of empowerment. We love how Aguilera took a deeply personal song and made it a universal message of resilience.
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44 “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers (2003)
If we had a traditional top 10 list, “Mr. Brightside” could have been our pick for the very top. This alternative rock anthem, with its infectious melody and relatable lyrics, has solidified its place as one of the most enduring hits of the era.
It’s incredible that Mr. Brightside is one of the first songs The Killers wrote, and it’s even more impressive that this raw, early composition would become such a massive global phenomenon.
This track is the longest-charting single in the UK Top 100, an astonishing feat that speaks volumes about its continued popularity.
We love
We love the song’s raw energy and sincerity in the lyrics.
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43 “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” by Kylie Minogue (2001)
Kylie Minogue’s dance-pop masterpiece “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” is an iconic anthem that defined the early 2000s music scene. This song propelled Kylie back into the spotlight after a long career hiatus. The song video, which featured Minogue in a futuristic bodysuit, was groundbreaking and hugely influential.
“Can’t Get You Out of My Head” topped the charts worldwide and remains one of the most popular songs of the 2000s.
We love
How “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” perfectly captures the feeling of obsessing over somebody.
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42 “Toxic” by Britney Spears (2003)
Britney Spears’ “Toxic” is a quintessential example of popular music in the 2000s. Released in 2003, this dance-pop hit quickly became a global sensation. The song has a sexy music video, and people love to sing it. Fans think it’s exciting and addictive, but it shows Britney’s more vulnerable side.
“Toxic” won a Grammy for Best Dance Recording, solidifying its status as a pop masterpiece.
We love
We love the song’s simplicity, the Bollywood sample, and the spy story in the video. And how that beat blends the bass! WOW! One perfect example is that less (simplicity) is more!
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41 “American Idiot” by Green Day (2004)
“American Idiot” is a powerful song by Green Day that captures the spirit of a generation. Released in 2004, it quickly became one of the most popular songs of the 2000s, resonating with listeners through its raw energy and thought-provoking lyrics. The song is a scathing critique of American society and politics, particularly in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
While not everyone enjoyed the song, “American Idiot” was a huge commercial success. This song is live and kicking even today (2024), “hitting” society’s deviations and making Green Day’s fans happy. Check out the showcase musical “American Idiot!” by Galway University Musical Society, which was realized early this year (Jan 2024) and inspired by this song and the album.
We love
“American Idiot” raw energy and while guitar riffs call us, we respond 😊.
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40 “Back to Black” by Amy Winehouse (2006)
“Back to Black” is one of Amy Winehouse’s most popular songs. Released in 2006, it became one of the defining tracks of the 2000s. The song perfectly captures Winehouse’s raw emotional depth and distinctive sound.
“Back to Black” perfectly exemplifies Winehouse’s deep, soulful voice and poignant songwriting.
We love
Amy Winehouse really managed to bring her tumultuous relationship with Blake Fielder-Civil and create a universal song for the heartbroken and desperate.
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39 “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga (2008)
“Poker Face” is a synth-pop anthem that catapulted Lady Gaga to stardom in the late 2000s. Its infectious melody and enigmatic lyrics created a perfect storm of popularity. Gaga revealed that the song’s inspiration came from her rock and roll boyfriends, and it was her attempt to create a pop song they would enjoy. “Poker Face” was a massive radio hit, and it showed Gaga’s ability to blend provocative themes with infectious pop music.
We love
We love the song’s catchy chorus and beat. And we really do enjoy the somewhat futuristic look of the song video.
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38 “Drop It Like It’s Hot” by Snoop Dogg and Pharrell (2004)
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” is one of the tracks we almost forgot, but it’s undeniably one of the most iconic tracks of the early 2000s. This infectious tune features Pharrell Williams’ signature production; it is no wonder it dominated the airwaves and dance floors alike. The song’s infectious rhythm and positive energy continue to resonate with fans, making it a timeless anthem of the early 2000s music scene.
We love
Snoop’s laid-back charisma, catchy melody, and clever lyrics are complemented by Pharrell’s flawless production of the song.
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37 “I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor” by Arctic Monkeys (2005)
“I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor” is a quintessential track that propelled the Arctic Monkeys into stardom. Released in 2005, it became an instant classic, perfectly capturing the energy and attitude of the 2000s rock scene.
The song was the band’s debut single, and it reached the top of the UK Singles Chart in 2005.
We love
We love the song’s infectious rhythm and Alex Turner’s witty lyrics.
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36 “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay (2008)
Coldplay released “Viva La Vida” in 2008. It quickly became a global sensation, solidifying the band’s status as one of the era’s biggest acts. The song reflects on the themes of power, loss, and redemption, drawing inspiration from historical figures like King Louis XVI.
We love
Viva La Vida’s soaring melody and anthemic chorus are often cited as fan favorites, and we love them, too.
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35 “A Milli” by Lil Wayne (2008)
Released in 2008 as part of his groundbreaking album “Tha Carter III”, “A Milli” quickly climbed the charts, and Wayne’s status as a hip-hop superstar was set. The song was a commercial success; it reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100, and it helped the album’s massive sales. Part of the musical success is that the song had a cultural impact, inspiring countless memes, remixes, and parodies.
We love
We love Lil Wayne’s animated delivery.
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34 “Take Me Out” by Franz Ferdinand (2003)
“Take Me Out” is a recognizable indie rock anthem by the Scottish band Franz Ferdinand. Released in 2004, it took one song to catapult them to international fame. The infectious energy of “Take Me Out” combined with its clever lyrics and catchy guitar riff, has made it a timeless classic.
“Take Me Out” topped the UK Singles Chart and reached the top 10 in many other countries. It was a massive commercial success, introducing Franz Ferdinand to a global audience.
We love
We love the song’s opening guitar riff; it is instantly recognizable and super catchy.
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33 “Gold Digger” by Kanye West (2005)
“Gold Digger” is a super popular Kanye West song. It’s famous for its catchy tune and clever lyrics about relationships and money. Kanye originally wrote the music for Shawnna’s debut album, but luckily the plan changed.
“Gold Digger” held the top on the Billboard Hot 100 for ten consecutive weeks.
We love
Kanye used a part of an old Ray Charles song in “Gold Digger.” We love the mix of old and new music. It sounds great. Plus, Jamie Foxx sounds amazing in the song.
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32 “Clocks” by Coldplay (2002)
Built around a mesmerizing piano riff, “Clocks” has become synonymous with Coldplay’s identity. Interestingly, it was almost scrapped from their album, “A Rush of Blood to the Head.” Thankfully, the band had a change of heart, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The song’s lyrics carry a sense of urgency and introspection, with themes of time and the inevitability of change. Chris Martin has often cited the influence of British rock band Muse, particularly their use of piano in their music, which inspired Coldplay to incorporate similar elements into “Clocks.”
We love
Clearly, we love the piano, haunting and instantly recognizable.
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31 “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson
“Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson is one of the most popular songs of the 2000s, significantly impacting popular music in the early 2000s. Released in 2004 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Breakaway,” the song quickly became an anthem for empowerment and liberation.
The song was initially intended for Pink and then offered to Hilary Duff. Luckily, both of them passed on it. Kelly Clarkson’s powerful vocals turned the music into a huge hit.
We love
We love the catchy chorus and Clarkson’s vocals.
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30 “Hot in Herre” by Nelly (2002)
“Hot in Herre” by Nelly is one of the beloved songs of the 2000s. The song was released as the lead single from his second album, “Nellyville.” “Hot in Herre” quickly became a massive hit, climbing to the number one slot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for seven weeks. Its catchy hook and memorable chorus made it a staple of 2000s music hits. The track features a sample from Chuck Brown’s 1979 single “Bustin’ Loose,” giving it a distinctive, funky vibe that stood out among other songs from 2000 to 2010.
“Hot in Herre” won a Best Male Rap Solo Performance Grammy in 2003.
We love
“Hot in Herre” has an upbeat and fun nature; it’s catchy and makes a great dancing song. And we are definitely in love with the “the roof is on fire” part in the music video. Lovely break! 🙂
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29 “Work It” by Missy Elliott (2002)
“Work It” has an infectious beat and playful lyrics that contribute significantly to the song’s lasting appeal. Fans also loved the video, which is known for its energetic dance sequences and imaginative scenes.
We love
We love Missy Elliot’s unapologetic attitude in this song. And of course, we enjoy the Timbaland‘s work – the master of beats.
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28 “Paper Planes” – M.I.A. (2007)
“Paper Planes” by M.I.A. was released as part of her second studio album, “Kala”. The track gained massive popularity and became a staple in 2000s music hits.
We love
We love “Paper Planes” for its bold message, catchy rhythm, and unique blend of genres. The song manages to address themes of immigration and stereotypes, themes that are still important today.
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27 “Empire State of Mind” – Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys (2009)
“Empire State of Mind” is one of the best collaborations of the 2000s. Jay-Z, one of the reachest artists in the world, and singer Alicia Keys released it in 2009 as part of Jay-Z’s album “The Blueprint 3”. The song almost immediately became an anthem for New York City.
Empire State of Mind won two Grammy Awards in 2011 for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and Best Rap Song.
We love
We adore “Empire State of Mind” for its inspirational and uplifting message and the soaring chorus sung by Alicia Keys. We love the reference to Afrika Bambaataa – the iconic person in the world of Hip-hop. That part of the song’s lyrics mentions Afrika Bambaataa, an influential DJ and rapper considered one of the pioneers of hip-hop culture.
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26 “Sex on Fire” by Kings Of Leon (2008)
We almost missed “Sex on Fire” on the list, and if there is any song that would make the best song list on catchy bridge and chorus, it’s this one. “Sex on Fire” has catchy and powerful guitar riffs, and Caleb Followill’s raw and passionate vocals make for a standout feature.
The song won a Grammy in 2009 in the Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group category. It was also number one on the charts in several countries, including the UK and Australia.
We love
Well, we already said it: we love the infectious chorus.
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25 “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira (2005)
“Hips Don’t Lie” is another collaboration that made our best songs of the 2000s list. Pop superstar Shakira and Haitian rapper Wyclef Jean released the song in 2006 as part of Shakira’s reissued album, “Oral Fixation, Vol. 2”. “Hips Don’t Lie” became an international hit, topping charts in over 55 countries and reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Shakira was the first South American artist to achieve this feat.
We love
Shakira performed “Hips Don’t Lie” at the 2006 FIFA World Cup closing ceremony in Berlin, further cementing its status as one of the most popular 2000s songs.
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24 “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne (2002)
“Complicated” was Avril Lavigne’s debut single and quickly became her defining track of the 2000s. Written by Lavigne, The Matrix (Evan Taubenfeld, Scott Spock, and Lauren Christy) and produced by The Matrix, the song showcases a pop-punk vibe that captured the essence of 2000s music.
We love
We love “Complicated” for its spirit of youth and emotion.
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23 “Umbrella” by Rihanna (2007)
“Umbrella” by Rihanna (one of the billionaires singers in the world), featuring Jay-Z, is one of the best songs of the 2000s. Released in 2007, it quickly became one of the most popular songs of the 2000s, dominating the charts and solidifying Rihanna’s place in popular music in the 2000s. Written by The-Dream, Tricky Stewart, and Kuk Harrell, the song was offered to Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and other artists before Rihanna recorded it.
We love
We love the song’s catchy “ella-ella-ella” hook and its mix of pop and R&B elements.
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22 “Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake (2002)
“Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake was released in 2002. It is widely believed to be inspired by Timberlake’s high-profile breakup with Britney Spears, adding a layer of personal drama to its lyrical content. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks, solidifying its place among the best songs of the 2000s. It also won a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 2004.
We love
We love the song’s heartfelt lyrics and Justin’s emotional delivery.
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21 “Beautiful Day” by U2 (2000)
Far from U2’s glory days, “Beautifull Day” is one of the band’s most celebrated songs of the 2000s. The song is from their album “All That You Can’t Leave Behind”, and it quickly became a staple of 2000s music hits for U2 fans.
“Beautiful Day” was a global hit, topping the charts in multiple countries, including UK, Australia, and Canada. In 2001, the song won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance.
We love
We love “Beautiful Day” for its optimistic message and ability to lift our spirits.
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2000s Music Hits
20 “Numb” by Linkin Park (2003)
“Numb” is one of Linkin Park’s best songs and a standout track among popular 2000s songs. The song is a fusion of rock and electronic elements that characterized Linkin Park during the early 2000s. It became a hit, reaching the top of the charts and cementing Linkin Park’s place in the pantheon of great songs of the 2000s. “Numb” spent 12 weeks on the top of the Billboard Alternative Songs chart and peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
We love
We love the song’s powerful delivery.
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19 “In Da Club” by 50 Cent (2003)
“In Da Club,” by 50 Cent, is one of the most popular songs released from 2000 to 2010. It was the first single from his debut album, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” which is considered among the best albums of the 2000s.
The song was a huge commercial success. It stayed nine weeks on top of the Hot 100 Billboard’s list.
We love
We love the song’s energy, plus the opening line, “Go, shawty, it’s your birthday,” is kind of rememberable. We love the scene in the music video featuring the creation of 50 Cent by Dr. Dre and Eminem.
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18 “My Humps” by The Black Eyed Peas (2000)
“My Humps” by The Black Eyed Peas is one of the most recognizable 2000s music hits. The song was written by Will.i.am, and it features Fergie. Critics didn’t like the song, but fans loved it. It was a huge commercial success. Even so, it won a Grammy for Best Pop Performance, making it one of the good 2000s songs.
We love
We love the song’s infectious rhythm.
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17 “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes (2003)
“Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, released in 2003, is one of the most iconic songs of the 2000s. It proves that while rock evolved and changed, it was still popular in the 2000s. “Seven Nation Army” has a raw, stripped-down sound, which exemplifies the garage rock revival of the early 2000s. The song’s riff is not only catchy but also powerful, making it a staple of 2000s music hits.
We love
We love the distinctive and immediately recognizable bass line.
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16 The Strokes – “You Only Live Once” (2005)
Released as a single in 2006, “You Only Live Once” quickly became one of the most recognizable tracks in The Strokes’ music. The song stands out for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics. Sharp guitar riffs, a driving rhythm, and Julian Casablancas’ distinctive vocals made this one of the beloved songs of the 2000s.
“You Only Live Once” is celebrated as a standout track from The Strokes and as one of the defining songs from 2000 to 2010.
We love
“You Only Live Once” has a catchy melody and relatable lyrics that we love.
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15 “Lose Yourself” by Eminem (2002)
“Lose Yourself” is one of Eminem’s most-known tracks. It was the lead single from the soundtrack of the film “8 Mile“, which stars Eminem himself. The song won an Oscar, making Eminem the first hip-hop artist to win an Oscar. “Lose Yourself” is regarded as one of the best songs of the 2000s, embodying the raw energy and determination that defined Eminem’s early career.
“Lose Yourself” spent 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 top.
We love
The song’s strong motivational message resonates greatly with us.
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14 “Smile” by Lily Allen
“Smile” was Allen’s debut single and became a significant success, topping the UK Singles Chart and earning widespread acclaim. It’s often celebrated as one of the defining hits from the early 2000s. The track blends a catchy ska-pop melody with candid lyrics about a breakup and finding empowerment.
We love
We love “Smile” for its empowering lyrics, accompanied by the upbeat and catchy melody.
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13 “Stan” by Eminem (2000)
It is another Eminem song on the list, but hey, without a doubt, he was a 2000s superstar. “Stan” stood out among the most famous music in the 2000s. The track tells the dark and emotional story of a fan who becomes increasingly obsessed with the rapper. The raw portrayal of mental illness and celebrity worship strikes a chord with many.
We love
We love the narrative complexity of “Stan” and the amazing use of Dido’s “Thank You” as the song’s chorus.
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12 “Rehab” by Amy Winehouse (2006)
You could make the best of the 2000s list with only Winehouse songs, and you wouldn’t be wide off the mark. “Rehab” is one of the best tracks from Amy Winehouse’s second album, “Back to Black”. Like with many Winehouse songs, “Rehab” was based on the singer’s own experiences. The music reflects her struggle with substance abuse and her defiant stance against rehabilitation.
A blend of jazz, soul, and Motown influences, it resonates well with fans who appreciate good 2000s songs and the rich, vintage feel reminiscent of earlier music eras.
We love
We adore the Winehouse’s raw and authentic vocal delivery.
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11 “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé (2003)
The lead single from Beyoncé’s debut solo album “Dangerously in Love”, “Crazy in Love,” quickly became one of the best known songs of the 2000s. Featuring a signature brass riff and a high-energy beat, this track is widely celebrated as one of the era’s best songs. The song was a tremendous commercial success, too; it stayed on top of the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks in a row.
“Crazy in Love” won multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best R&B Performance.
We love
We love the song’s infectious beat.
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10 “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley (2006)
“Crazy,” a song by Gnarls Barkley, a duo consisting of Danger Mouse and CeeLo Green, was released in 2006 as the lead single from their debut album “St. Elsewhere”. The track became an instant classic, renowned for its unique blend of soul, R&B, and psychedelic influences. Thanks to its early exposure on music blogs and social media, it was among the first songs to achieve significant success through the internet before its physical release.
We love
We are CRAZY for that infectious bridge and chorus!
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9 “No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age (2002)
“No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age is a rock hit that dominated early 2000s music. Released in 2002 on their album “Songs for the Deaf,” it quickly became a rock radio staple and a live concert favorite. The band’s frontman, Josh Homme, originally wrote the song with a much slower tempo, but it was sped up during recording.
The music video, directed by Roman Coppola, features the band performing in a desert setting, a visual that perfectly complements the song’s raw energy.
We love
We love “No One Knows” heavy riffs, catchy melodies, and Homme’s distinctive vocals.
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8 “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet (2003)
Released in 2003, Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” is an excellent example of early 2000s rock that still resonates today. This catchy tune, with its energetic guitar riffs and infectious melody, quickly became a staple on radio stations worldwide.
“Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” was a massive hit, reaching the top 20 in several countries and propelling Jet to international stardom.
We love
We love the song’s appealing energy and passion.
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7 “Fell In Love With a Girl” by The White Stripes (2001)
The catchy riff and short, punchy structure made “Fell In Love With a Girl” by The White Stripes one of the 2000s fan favorites. The song is notable for its fast tempo and garage rock style, lasting just under two minutes. Add to this a great music video, and it’s clear why it’s one of the most loved songs in the Stripes catalog.
We love
The combination of Jack White’s distinctive guitar work and Meg White’s driving drumbeat made the song one of the garage rock revivals of 2000s hits.
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6 “Clint Eastwood” by Gorillaz (2001)
“Clint Eastwood,” by Gorillaz, was one of the most popular 2000s songs and a defining track of popular early 2000s music. Combining hip-hop, dub, and rock, the song showcases the collaboration between Damon Albarn and rapper Del the Funky Homosapien. The track’s catchy hook and distinctive beat made it a standout in popular music of the period. The song’s video was also very cool, with animated Gorillaz members in surreal landscapes.
We love
We love the unique sound of “Clint Eastwood” and its infectious rhythm and lyrics.
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5 “Gone Gone Gone” by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss (2007)
“Gone Gone Gone” by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss is a standout track from their groundbreaking album, “Raising Sand.” This unexpected duo blended rock and bluegrass and created a sonic landscape that resonated deeply with audiences in the 2000s. The song captured all music lovers with its raw emotion and timeless appeal.
We love
We simply adore the song’s raw energy, the unexpected pairing of voices, and the way it seamlessly combines elements of classic rock and country music
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4 “One More Time” by Daft Punk (2000)
“One More Time” is undoubtedly one of the best known and influential tracks to emerge from the famous music scene of the early 2000s. Released by the French electronic duo Daft Punk, it quickly became a global sensation, helping them reach their status as one of the pioneers of electronic music.
The catchy vocal hook of “One More Time” features the voice of American house vocalist Romanthony, processed with Auto-Tune. This innovative use of vocal effects was groundbreaking at the time and has since become a staple in electronic music.
We love
We love the simple yet incredibly catchy melody and the song’s energetic beat.
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3 “Best Of You” by Foo Fighters (2005)
“Best Of You” by Foo Fighters is one of the most iconic songs of the 2000s. It is widely recognized as a standout track from their 2005 album, “In Your Honor”. The song, released as the lead single, reached number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100. It is one of the band’s highest-charting songs in the US. It also topped the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart.
We love
Dave Grohl wrote “Best Of You” during a tumultuous period in his life, which is reflected in the song’s raw emotion and intensity. We love the song’s powerful message about resilience and self-empowerment.
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2 “Family Affair” by Mary J. Blige (2001)
“Family Affair” by Mary J. Blige was released in 2001 as part of her fifth studio album, “No More Drama.” The song, produced by Dr. Dre, marked a significant point in Blige’s career. It became her first and only song to reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
We love
We love Mary J. Blige’s empowering lyrics and Dre’s powerful, infectious beat.
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1 “Maps” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs (2003)
“Maps” is one of Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ most recognizable songs of the 2000s. It was released in 2003 as part of their debut album, “Fever to Tell.” Written by lead singer Karen O, guitarist Nick Zinner, and drummer Brian Chase, it is a heartfelt ballad, a plea from Karen O to her then-boyfriend, Angus Andrew of The Liars. “Maps” is an acronym for “My Angus Please Stay.”
We love
We love the song’s simplicity, raw honesty, and emotional depth.
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The Enduring Impact of 2000s Songs
Like most decades, the 2000s brought some change in music, leaving an indelible mark on today’s soundscape. The best songs from this era, like “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira, and “Hot in Herre” by Nelly, continue to resonate, influencing a new generation of artists and shaping modern genres. These old 2000s songs introduced innovative production techniques, genre-blending styles, and powerful lyrical content that still echo in today’s hits.
Rock survived the 2000s with some changes. The garage sound and indie rock became huge. Juggernauts like Red Hot Chili Peppers or Green Day remained unscathed. Some of the top bands in the 2000s were Coldplay, Linkin Park, The White Stripes, Green Day, The Strokes, Radiohead, Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, and Muse.
Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, hip-hop, or R&B, revisiting these classics offers a nostalgic journey through a pivotal era that laid the foundation for today’s music trends. As you explore these tracks, you’ll discover the enduring impact they’ve had on the sound and culture of contemporary music.
