Remember that one year when certain songs seemed to be playing on every radio station, in every coffee shop, and even at that awkward family gathering? You know the ones — you couldn’t escape them, no matter how hard you tried. Whether you loved them or rolled your eyes every time they came on, some tracks just dominated the airwaves (and our lives) for a full 365 days. Let’s take a look at six of those irresistible hits that were absolutely everywhere, capturing our hearts, ears, and even our dance moves.
1. “Despacito” – Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee
Ah, “Despacito.” Just saying the title might make you break into an impromptu salsa. Released in early 2017, this catchy reggaeton track quickly took over not just the Latin charts but the global music scene. It was the song that turned every cookout into a dance party and every car ride into a sing-along. Seriously, it felt like “Despacito” was the soundtrack to summer vacations, road trips, and even grocery store runs. You couldn’t escape it, but honestly, who wanted to?
2. “Shape of You” – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran has this magical ability to create songs that feel like they’ve always been part of our lives. “Shape of You,” released in 2017, was no exception. The infectious beat and lyrics about love and attraction made it a staple on playlists everywhere. I mean, whether you were at a wedding, a bar, or just hanging out in your living room, you could count on hearing it. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to sway a little, even if you’re just cooking dinner. And let’s be honest, who didn’t try to recreate that famous dance challenge?
3. “Old Town Road” – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
Here’s a track that broke all the rules: “Old Town Road.” Blending country and rap in a way that made everyone sit up and take notice, it became a cultural phenomenon in 2019. You couldn’t scroll through social media without seeing funny memes, TikTok dances, or even your uncle trying to figure out if he liked country music now. It sparked debates on genre and authenticity, but one thing was clear — it was everywhere. Plus, how could you not chuckle at the absurdity of it all? A song about cowboy life topping the charts? Only in 2019!
4. “Thank U, Next” – Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next” was more than just a hit; it was a movement! Released in late 2018, this anthem about self-love and growth resonated with so many of us. The catchy chorus was all over radio stations, and let’s not forget that iconic music video. It was like a masterclass in how to turn past relationships into something empowering. You could practically feel the collective sigh of relief from folks everywhere saying, “Yes! We’ve all been there!” It became a go-to anthem for anyone navigating the ups and downs of love.
5. “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd
“The Weeknd” really hit the jackpot with “Blinding Lights,” which became a staple in 2020 and beyond. With its retro 80s vibes, it somehow managed to feel both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. It was the kind of song that made you want to roll the windows down, crank the volume up, and just drive into the sunset. Honestly, it felt like a cinematic moment every time it came on. It was everywhere — on TikTok, during workout sessions, and even on TV shows. You might’ve caught yourself humming it at random moments, and let’s be real, that’s a sign of a true hit!
6. “Good 4 U” – Olivia Rodrigo
Last but definitely not least, Olivia Rodrigo burst onto the scene with “Good 4 U,” a song that encapsulated the feelings of betrayal and heartbreak with a bit of pop-punk flair. Released in 2021, it quickly became an anthem for anyone experiencing the rollercoaster of young love. You could hear it blasting from teenage bedrooms, at summer camps, and honestly, even in the grocery store. It was that relatable mix of anger and sass that made it impossible to ignore. Plus, who didn’t feel just a bit rebellious singing along at the top of their lungs?
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