Music

Iconic songs of the 2000s

Explore a curated collection of the biggest musical hits that defined the 2000s decade. From pop-rock anthems and R&B to hip-hop and electronic tracks, this list celebrates the songs that marked a generation. Relive the nostalgia of the 'noughties' with the most influential and danceable sounds that played on the radio and portable music players. Discover the artists and genres that dominated the music scene at the turn of the 21st century and still resonate today.

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  1. 1

    In The End (2001)

    199 Global Votes
    • Reached top ten on numerous worldwide music charts

      (+4)

    This nu metal/alternative rock song became one of Linkin Park's biggest hits, known for its combination of rap and singing, and its introspective lyrics. It is a generational anthem that represents the fusion of genres that characterized part of 2000s rock.

  2. 2

    Lose Yourself (2002)

    136 Global Votes
    • Global phenomenon

      (+4)

    The main theme from the movie '8 Mile', this inspiring and raw hip-hop song is about self-improvement and the struggle for success. Winner of an Oscar for Best Original Song, it is a motivational anthem that remains powerful and relevant for its message of perseverance.

  3. 3

    The Real Slim Shady (2000)

    113 Global Votes
    • First song to reach number one in the UK

      (+4)

    This satirical and controversial hip-hop track solidified Eminem's image as a provocative figure and an ingenious lyricist. It represents a key cultural moment in hip-hop, where Eminem challenged norms and became a global icon.

  4. 4

    Oops!... I Did It Again (2000)

    71 Global Votes
    • Iconic pop video of the 2000s

      (+4)

    This pop hit solidified Britney Spears' status as the 'Princess of Pop', with playful lyrics and a memorable music video. It's an anthem of teenage pop from that era and a reminder of Britney Spears' cultural impact, with an instantly recognizable melody.

  5. 5

    Rehab (2006)

    63 Global Votes
    • Signature song with defiant attitude

      (+4)

    This autobiographical soul and R&B track with jazz influences became Amy Winehouse's biggest hit and catapulted her to global fame. It is a testament to Winehouse's vocal and lyrical talent, and its timeless sound keeps her as one of the most distinctive voices in modern music.

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  7. 6

    La Tortura (2005)

    25 Global Votes
    • Features a collaboration with Alejandro Sanz

      (+3)

    This globally successful collaboration between Shakira and Alejandro Sanz fuses Latin pop with reggaeton and flamenco, marking a turning point in Shakira's career. Its catchy rhythm and the chemistry between the artists keep it one of the most recognizable and danceable Latin songs of the decade.

  8. 7

    A Thousand Miles (2002)

    13 Global Votes
    • Nominated for three Grammy Awards

      (+4)

    This piano pop ballad with a catchy chorus and a memorable music video where Vanessa Carlton plays the piano while moving through the city. It's a classic of early 2000s pop that remains popular for its recognizable melody and nostalgic charm.

  9. 8

    Seven Nation Army (2003)

    1 Global Votes
    • Revolution in minimalism, swagger, and raw power

      (+4)

    This garage rock track with an iconic guitar riff has become a sports and cultural anthem. Its simple yet powerful riff is universally recognized and remains a staple at sporting and cultural events, transcending its original genre.

  10. 9

    My Immortal (2003)

    0 Global Votes
    • Hit the top 10 in the US, UK, Australia

      (+4)

    This gothic rock and pop power ballad has remained an anthem of melancholy and loss, resonating deeply with audiences for its emotional intensity and timelessness. It was a global commercial success and received a Grammy nomination, solidifying its iconic status.

  11. 10

    Crazy In Love - Beyoncé (2003)

    0 Global Votes
    • Launched Beyoncé into global superstardom

      (+1)

    Beyoncé's debut solo single, this R&B and pop anthem with funk and hip-hop influences marked the beginning of her reign as 'Queen B'. It's an instant classic that defined her solo career and is considered one of the best songs of the decade.

  12. 11

    Hung Up

    0 Global Votes
    • Chart-topping single

      (+4)

    This dance-pop and disco track marked Madonna's triumphant return to her pop roots, sampling ABBA's 'Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)'. It was a massive global hit, reaching number 1 in over 40 countries and entering the Guinness Book of Records.

  13. 12

    Last Nite (2001)

    0 Global Votes
    • Representative of raw, driven energy

      (+3)

    This alternative rock track defined the indie sound of the 2000s and catapulted The Strokes to global fame. It is a cornerstone of the garage rock and indie rock revival of the early century, influencing countless bands.

  14. 13

    Yellow (2000)

    0 Global Votes
    • Coldplay's first top-five hit in the UK

    This alternative rock ballad became one of Coldplay's first major hits, known for its emotive atmosphere and memorable chorus. It is one of the band's most recognizable songs and a generational anthem that continues to evoke feelings of hope and melancholy.

  15. 14

    Bad Romance (2009)

    0 Global Votes
    • Reached number one in 16 countries

      (+4)

    This electropop track with innovative production and an iconic music video solidified Lady Gaga as a global superstar and a pop culture icon. Its visual and sonic impact was revolutionary for the era, and its catchy chorus and avant-garde aesthetic keep it a dancefloor classic.

  16. 15

    Beautiful Day (2000)

    0 Global Votes
    • Won three Grammy Awards in 2001

      (+4)

    This optimistic and uplifting rock track was a global hit and won several Grammy Awards for the Irish band U2. Its positive message and expansive sound make it a timeless song that remains popular at events and celebrations.

  17. 16

    Gasolina - Daddy Yankee (2004)

    0 Global Votes
    • Seismic shifting song that ignited a genre

      (+4)

    This song marked the global rise of reggaeton and turned Daddy Yankee into an international phenomenon. It is an anthem of the urban genre and one of the most influential songs of the decade, which opened doors for Latin music in the global market.

  18. 17

    Aserejé - Las Ketchup

    0 Global Votes
    • Global phenomenon

      (+4)

    This track became a global phenomenon for its unintelligible chorus and catchy choreography, recorded in several languages. It's a 'one-hit wonder' that transcended linguistic and cultural barriers, and it remains a staple at parties and nostalgic events.

  19. 18

    A Dios Le Pido (2002)

    0 Global Votes
    • Resonated with audiences worldwide

      (+4)

    This anthem of peace and hope solidified Juanes as one of the great figures of Spanish pop rock. Its universal message and its fusion of rock with Latin rhythms make it a timeless song and a benchmark for Spanish music of the decade.

  20. 19

    Can't Get You Out Of My Head (2001)

    0 Global Votes
    • Released as lead single in 2001

      (+1)

    This dance-pop track with an iconic electronic riff and a futuristic music video became one of Kylie Minogue's biggest hits. Its innovative sound and hypnotic chorus keep it a dancefloor classic and a benchmark for electronic pop.

  21. 20

    Umbrella - Rihanna (2007)

    0 Global Votes
    • Propelled Rihanna to superstardom

      (+4)

    This single catapulted Rihanna to global stardom, an R&B and pop track with a catchy chorus and a message of unconditional support. It is one of Rihanna's most iconic songs and a pop anthem that remains popular and recognized worldwide.