29 Best Songs Everyone Knows: The Ultimate Playlist

Updated at: 09/01/2025

This isn't about a specific artist, band, or album, but rather a celebration of universally recognized songs that have transcended generations and genres. We're diving into a collection of tracks so iconic, they've become ingrained in popular culture, shaping the soundscapes of our lives. Think of the emotional power of a certain British singer's soaring vocals, the raw energy of a grunge anthem that defined a generation, or the infectious beat of a pop song that instantly gets you moving. These songs, representing diverse styles from soulful ballads to anthemic rock and infectious pop, aren't just catchy tunes; they’re cultural touchstones, each telling a story and evoking powerful memories for millions.

This list isn't just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s a curated selection designed to showcase the incredible breadth and depth of universally loved music. From heartbreaking ballads that resonate with our deepest emotions to uplifting anthems that fuel our spirits, the songs featured here represent the best of what popular music has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or just starting to explore the world of sound, this collection offers a fantastic journey through decades of musical brilliance, guaranteeing a playlist that will resonate with you long after you’ve finished listening. Prepare to rediscover old favorites and unearth hidden gems within this timeless compilation.

29 Best Songs Everyone Knows: The Ultimate Playlist
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Shape of You Ed Sheeran ÷ (Deluxe) 6B+
2. Hello Adele 25 3B+
3. Chandelier Sia 1000 Forms Of Fear (Deluxe Version) 3B+
4. Rolling in the Deep Adele 21 3B+
5. Smells Like Teen Spirit Nirvana Nevermind (Remastered) 2B+
6. Bad Romance Lady Gaga The Fame Monster (Deluxe Edition) 2B+
7. Bohemian Rhapsody Queen A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version) 2B+

1. Shape of You - ÷ (Deluxe)

Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" released in 2017, quickly transcended its initial release to become a global phenomenon. Its infectious tropical house beat and undeniably catchy melody, coupled with relatable lyrics about burgeoning attraction, resonated deeply with listeners worldwide. The song's widespread popularity stemmed from its record-breaking chart success—topping the Billboard Hot 100 for twelve weeks and achieving similar feats internationally—and its heavy rotation across various media platforms. Its enduring appeal lies in its simple yet effective composition, a testament to the power of a well-crafted pop song that crosses genre boundaries, appealing to a vast and diverse audience. The song's memorable chorus and upbeat rhythm cemented its place in popular culture, making "Shape of You" a truly timeless hit.

"Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran is an undeniable crowd-pleaser, but for an in-depth exploration of his musical prowess, be sure to check out our comprehensive list of Top 46 Ed Sheeran Songs of All Time.
Shape of You - Ed Sheeran

2. Hello (25 - 2025)

Adele's "Hello" is a globally recognized ballad that transcends genre boundaries. Released in 2015 as the lead single from her acclaimed album 25, the song's poignant lyrics about nostalgia and regret resonated deeply with listeners worldwide. Its soaring vocals, simple yet powerful melody, and emotionally resonant piano accompaniment created an instantly memorable and catchy tune. "Hello"'s phenomenal success, topping charts internationally and selling millions of copies, cemented its status as a modern classic. The song's enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes of lost connections and the universal experience of looking back on past relationships, making it a timeless anthem for many.

Adele's "Hello" has captivated millions with its raw emotion and timeless melody. If you're looking to delve deeper into the singer's acclaimed repertoire, explore 19 Best Adele Songs: Top Tracks That Define Her Career for a comprehensive guide to the 19 best Adele songs that have shaped her remarkable career.
Hello - Adele

3. Chandelier - 1000 Forms Of Fear (Deluxe Version)

Sia's "Chandelier" released in 2014, quickly became a global phenomenon. Its haunting melody and emotionally resonant lyrics, exploring themes of addiction and self-destruction, resonated deeply with listeners worldwide, leading to massive chart success and widespread critical acclaim. The song's memorable hook and Sia's powerful vocals transcend genre boundaries, appealing to a broad audience. "Chandelier's" enduring popularity stems from its raw emotional honesty and its ability to capture the universal experience of struggle and vulnerability, solidifying its place as a truly unforgettable hit. Its frequent use in media further cemented its status as a song everyone knows.

Sia's "Chandelier" captures the euphoric highs and desperate lows of a party atmosphere, drawing you into the whirlwind of emotions that can engulf such an occasion. If you're in the mood for more unforgettable party anthems, check out our 25 Unforgettable Hits: The Best Songs of 2000 to 2010 for a nostalgic trip down memory lane to the most iconic tracks that defined the party scene from 2000 to 2010.
Chandelier - Sia

4. Rolling in the Deep (21 - 2025)

Opening with a powerful, building intensity, "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele unleashes a torrent of raw emotion. The song's driving beat and gospel-tinged vocals convey a sense of righteous anger and betrayal, reflecting a painful breakup. Adele's lyrics vividly depict the aftermath of a relationship's demise, showcasing both vulnerability and fierce determination. A global phenomenon, "Rolling in the Deep" topped charts worldwide, earning numerous awards including three Grammys, and solidifying its place as one of Adele's signature hits and a defining song of the early 2010s. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universality of heartbreak and the cathartic power of expressing raw emotion.

After enjoying the soulful melodies of "Rolling in the Deep" delve deeper into Adele's musical journey by exploring 19 Best Hits from Adele’s Timeless Collection, where you'll find 19 of her most timeless and iconic hits that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Rolling in the Deep - Adele

5. Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana - 1991)

Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" transcends mere song status; it's a cultural touchstone. Released in 1991, this anthem for a generation resonated deeply, catapulting Nevermind to the top of charts worldwide and establishing grunge in the mainstream. The song's iconic music video, with its now-legendary imagery, further cemented its place in popular culture, leaving an indelible mark on listeners across decades. Its enduring popularity, evident in its continued streaming and placement on numerous "greatest songs" lists, testifies to its timeless appeal and influence on music history. The unexpected success of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" solidified Nirvana's legacy and continues to inspire awe and nostalgia in listeners worldwide, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of rock music.

While Nirvana's anthem encapsulated the angst and rebellion of a generation, let's venture further into the realm of alternative rock with Top 30 Essential Tracks from The Jam: Their Best Hits, showcasing the unforgettable hits of The Jam, pioneers of the genre whose music continues to inspire countless fans.
Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
  • Bad Romance
    6

    Bad Romance

    Lady Gaga

    2009

    The Fame Monster (Deluxe Edition)

  • Bohemian Rhapsody
    7

    Bohemian Rhapsody

    Queen

    1975

    A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)

  • Sweet Child O' Mine
    8

    Sweet Child O' Mine

    Guns N' Roses

    1987

    Appetite For Destruction

  • Billie Jean
    9

    Billie Jean

    Michael Jackson

    1982

    Thriller

  • I Will Always Love You
    10

    I Will Always Love You

    Whitney Houston

    1993

    The Bodyguard - Original Soundtrack Album

  • Livin' On A Prayer
    11

    Livin' On A Prayer

    Bon Jovi

    1986

    Slippery When Wet

  • Party In The U.S.A
    12

    Party In The U.S.A

    Miley Cyrus

    2009

    The Time Of Our Lives

  • Single Ladies
    13

    Single Ladies

    Beyoncé

    2008

    I AM...SASHA FIERCE

  • Blinding Lights
    14

    Blinding Lights

    The Weeknd

    2019

    After Hours

  • Wonderwall
    15

    Wonderwall

    Oasis

    1995

    (What's The Story) Morning Glory? (Deluxe Remastered Edition)

  • Hotel California
    16

    Hotel California

    Eagles

    1976

    Hotel California (2013 Remaster)

  • Hey Jude
    17

    Hey Jude

    The Beatles

    1968

    With The Beatles (Remastered)

  • Imagine
    18

    Imagine

    John Lennon

    1971

    Imagine

  • Hollaback Girl
    19

    Hollaback Girl

    Gwen Stefani

    2005

    Love Angel Music Baby (Deluxe Version)

  • Let It Be
    20

    Let It Be

    The Beatles

    1970

    Let It Be (Remastered)

  • Here Comes The Sun
    21

    Here Comes The Sun

    The Beatles

    1969

    Abbey Road (Remastered)

  • Rocket Man
    22

    Rocket Man

    Elton John

    1972

    Honky Chateau

  • Stairway to Heaven
    23

    Stairway to Heaven

    Led Zeppelin

    1971

    Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)

  • I Will Survive
    24

    I Will Survive

    Gloria Gaynor

    1978

    Future Bound

  • What's Going On
    25

    What's Going On

    Marvin Gaye

    1971

    What's Going On

  • Like a Rolling Stone
    26

    Like a Rolling Stone

    Bob Dylan

    1965

    Highway 61 Revisited

  • My Heart Will Go On
    27

    My Heart Will Go On

    Celine Dion

    1997

  • Shake It Off
    28

    Shake It Off

    Taylor Swift

    2014

    1989

  • Macarena
    29

    Macarena

    Los Del Rio

    1996