Billboard's 28 Best Songs of 2002: A Nostalgic Rewind

Updated at: 31/03/2025

2002 was a year that pulsed with unforgettable sounds, a year that cemented the legacy of several artists who continue to influence music today. This year gifted us anthems of angst and rebellion, alongside infectious pop hits that still get stuck in our heads. To celebrate the enduring power of these tracks, and introduce a generation to the sounds that defined a decade, we've compiled a list of the Billboard's best songs of 2002. From the raw emotionality of one particular band's breakthrough hit to the undeniable swagger of a hip-hop collaboration that topped the charts, this musical landscape showcased a diverse range of styles and talents. We'll delve into the unforgettable melodies that captured the spirit of the era, reminding you of the songs that defined your youth or opening your ears to a musical history you may have missed.

This collection isn't just a nostalgic trip; it's a testament to the staying power of great music. Each song on this list offers something unique, from powerhouse vocals that leave you breathless to the innovative soundscapes that pushed musical boundaries. Whether you prefer the raw energy of alternative rock or the infectious rhythms of pop, you'll find something to love. This curated selection allows you to rediscover the magic of 2002's musical landscape, a year that solidified the careers of many artists and gave birth to tracks that remain timeless classics. Prepare to be swept away by the unforgettable sounds of a truly remarkable year in music.

  • In the End
    1

    In the End

    Linkin Park

    2000

    Hybrid Theory (Bonus Edition)

  • Dilemma
    2

    Dilemma

    Nelly,Kelly Rowland

    2002

    Nellyville

  • The Reason
    3

    The Reason

    Hoobastank

    2003

    The Reason (20th Anniversary)

  • Whenever, Wherever
    4

    Whenever, Wherever

    Shakira

    2001

  • Complicated
    5

    Complicated

    Avril Lavigne

    2002

    Let Go

  • Wherever You Will Go
    6

    Wherever You Will Go

    The Calling

    2002

    Camino Palmero

  • How You Remind Me
    7

    How You Remind Me

    Nickelback

    2001

    Silver Side Up

  • If I Ain't Got You
    8

    If I Ain't Got You

    Alicia Keys

    2004

    The Diary Of Alicia Keys

  • How to Save a Life
    9

    How to Save a Life

    The Fray

    2007

    How To Save A Life

  • Under the Bridge
    10

    Under the Bridge

    Red Hot Chili Peppers

    1991

    Blood Sugar Sex Magik (Deluxe Edition)

  • My Sacrifice
    11

    My Sacrifice

    Creed

    2001

    Weathered

  • I'm with You
    12

    I'm with You

    Avril Lavigne

    2003

    Let Go

  • Sk8er Boi
    13

    Sk8er Boi

    Avril Lavigne

    2002

    Let Go

  • It's Gonna Be Me
    14

    It's Gonna Be Me

    *NSYNC

    2024

  • Hot In Herre
    15

    Hot In Herre

    Nelly

    2002

    Nellyville

  • I'm a Slave 4 U
    16

    I'm a Slave 4 U

    Britney Spears

    2001

    Britney (Digital Deluxe Version)

  • I'm Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman
    17

    I'm Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman

    Britney Spears

    2002

  • The Middle
    18

    The Middle

    Jimmy Eat World

    2001

    Bleed American

  • Underneath Your Clothes
    19

    Underneath Your Clothes

    Shakira

    2001

  • The Game of Love
    20

    The Game of Love

    Michelle Branch,Santana

    2003

    Shaman

  • Unpretty
    21

    Unpretty

    TLC

    1999

  • Underneath It All
    22

    Underneath It All

    No Doubt,Lady Saw

    2002

  • Foolish Games
    23

    Foolish Games

    Jewel

    1997

  • Hanging by a Moment
    24

    Hanging by a Moment

    Lifehouse

    2024

  • Soak Up The Sun
    25

    Soak Up The Sun

    Sheryl Crow

    2002

  • Hella Good
    26

    Hella Good

    No Doubt

    2002

  • The Remedy
    27

    The Remedy

    Jason Mraz

    2002

    Waiting for My Rocket to Come

  • Underneath the Stars
    28

    Underneath the Stars

    Mariah Carey

    1996