2023 has been a phenomenal year for music, and Spotify's vast library reflects this explosion of creativity. This isn't just a list of chart-toppers; it's a journey through the sounds that defined the year, showcasing the diverse range of talent that continues to captivate listeners worldwide. From the infectious rhythms that had everyone dancing to the heartfelt ballads that resonated deeply, this collection represents the best of what 2023 had to offer. We've curated this list to celebrate the year's most memorable tracks, highlighting the artists who pushed boundaries and created music with lasting appeal. Whether you're already a devoted fan or just beginning to explore the rich tapestry of contemporary music, you'll find something to love within this selection.
This year's standout tracks demonstrate the power of music to transcend genres and connect with people on a profound level. The emotional depth found in some songs beautifully complements the energetic beats of others, showcasing the versatility and artistry of the musicians. You’ll discover a spectrum of sounds, from smooth R&B grooves to infectious pop anthems. It's a playlist designed to not only entertain but also inspire, proving that great music can both move you and get you moving. Ultimately, exploring this list is an invitation to embrace the sounds that defined 2023 and discover your new favorite songs.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Calm Down |
Selena Gomez Rema | 959M+ | |
| 2. Flowers | Miley Cyrus | Endless Summer Vacation | 821M+ |
| 3. As It Was | Harry Styles | Harry's House | 749M+ |
| 4. Shivers | Ed Sheeran | 361M+ | |
| 5. Under The Influence | Chris Brown | Indigo (Extended) | 323M+ |
| 6. Unholy |
Kim Petras Sam Smith | 261M+ | |
| 7. abcdefu | GAYLE | 255M+ |
1. Calm Down
A captivating blend of Afrobeat and pop, "Calm Down" by Rema and Selena Gomez transcended genre boundaries to become a 2023 global phenomenon. Released as a remix of Rema's original hit, the collaboration seamlessly fused the artists' distinct styles, creating a track both undeniably catchy and emotionally resonant. The song's success is evident in its chart performance; it reached the top spots in numerous countries and achieved a peak position of number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its status as one of the year's most streamed and beloved tracks. The infectious melody, paired with Gomez's angelic vocals and Rema's signature Afrobeat rhythms, resonated deeply with listeners worldwide, making "Calm Down" a true standout among the best songs of 2023.
2. Flowers
Miley Cyrus's "Flowers" released in January 2023, quickly became a global phenomenon. This self-love anthem, from her album Endless Summer Vacation, topped charts worldwide and resonated deeply with listeners. Its infectious melody and empowering lyrics, focusing on self-acceptance and resilience after heartbreak, fueled its viral success and earned it a Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance. Speculated to be inspired by a past relationship, "Flowers" showcases Cyrus's continued artistic evolution and solidifies her status as a leading musical figure. The song's impact extends beyond its commercial success, offering a message of empowerment and inspiring countless individuals.
3. As It Was (2022)
Harry Styles' "As It Was" while not released in 2023, dominated Spotify charts throughout the year, solidifying its place as one of the platform's best songs. A vibrant blend of pop and rock, its infectious synth-driven beat and introspective lyrics resonated deeply with listeners. The song's cyclical narrative, subtly depicted in its music video, explores themes of letting go and embracing change, a message that clearly struck a chord with a diverse audience, from young fans to older generations. Its catchy melody and emotionally resonant lyrics, alongside its significant chart presence on Spotify's global rankings, make "As It Was" a standout track deserving of inclusion on any 2023 best-of list.
4. Shivers
Ed Sheeran's "Shivers" a vibrant pop anthem released in 2021, quickly climbed the charts, reaching #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving top positions internationally. Its infectious melody and upbeat tempo, combined with Sheeran's signature heartfelt lyrics about the exhilaration of new love, cemented its place as a fan favorite. While not a 2023 release, "Shivers" maintained significant popularity on Spotify throughout the year, showcasing its enduring appeal and making it a worthy inclusion in any "best of" list for Sheeran's discography. The song's energy and relatable themes continue to resonate with listeners, confirming its status as one of Sheeran's most successful and beloved tracks.
5. Under The Influence
While not a 2023 release, Chris Brown's "Under the Influence" initially dropped in 2019, experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity on Spotify throughout 2023. Reaching a peak position of #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 2022 and achieving platinum certification from the RIAA, the song's enduring appeal is undeniable. This R&B track, with its mellow production and seductive lyrics exploring the intoxicating nature of love, captivated listeners with its infectious rhythm and Chris Brown's signature smooth vocals. Its organic success, fueled by consistent streaming and enthusiastic fan engagement, solidifies its place among the best songs on Spotify in 2023.
6Unholy
Kim Petras,Sam Smith
2023
7abcdefu
GAYLE
2022
8Boy's a Liar Pt. 2
PinkPantheress,Ice Spice
2023
9Anti-Hero
Taylor Swift
2023
10Wasted On You
Morgan Wallen
2023
11Made You Look
Meghan Trainor
2023
12Bones
Imagine Dragons
2022
13Escapism
RAYE,070 Shake
2023
14Bad Habit
Steve Lacy
2022
Un Verano Sin Ti
15About Damn Time
Lizzo
2022
16Kill Bill
SZA
2023
SOS
17WAIT FOR U
Drake,Future,Tems
2022
I NEVER LIKED YOU
18You Proof
Morgan Wallen
2023
One Thing At A Time
19Thank God
Kane Brown, Katelyn Brown
2023
20Lavender Haze
Taylor Swift
2024
21Super Freaky Girl
Nicki Minaj
2022
22Die For You
The Weeknd
2023
Starboy
23Creepin'
21 Savage,Metro Boomin,The Weeknd
2023
24Golden Hour
JVKE
2023
25Big Energy
Mariah Carey,DJ Khaled,Latto
2023
We The Best
26BREAK MY SOUL
Beyoncé
2022
RENAISSANCE
27Until I Found You
Stephen Sanchez,Em Beihold
2023
÷ (Deluxe)
28Victoria's Secret
Jax
2023