2020 was a year unlike any other, and its soundtrack reflected that unique blend of uncertainty and resilience. To celebrate the music that helped us navigate that challenging year, we've compiled a list of exceptional tracks that transcended genre boundaries and resonated deeply with listeners worldwide. While the musical landscape shifted dramatically, some artists cemented their place in popular culture with unforgettable sounds. Think of the undeniable charisma behind certain catchy hooks, the raw emotion poured into soulful ballads, and the infectious energy that kept us moving even during times of stillness. This collection isn't just a snapshot of a moment in time; it's a reminder of the power of music to connect us, uplift us, and help us process the complexities of life.
This curated list showcases the breadth of musical talent and the diverse styles that captivated audiences in 2020. From upbeat anthems that filled dance floors (both real and imagined) to introspective tracks that allowed for quiet reflection, the songs on this list represent a compelling tapestry of emotions and experiences. We’re not just revisiting hits; we’re offering a chance to rediscover the artistry and storytelling that made these songs endure. Whether you were already a fan or are discovering these artists for the first time, this selection promises a journey through a pivotal year in music history, reminding us of the power of sound to shape and define our collective memories. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and transported back to a year that demanded both reflection and celebration.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Life Is Good |
Drake Future | 2B+ | |
| 2. Memories | Maroon 5 | JORDI (Deluxe) | 1B+ |
| 3. Someone You Loved | Lewis Capaldi | Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent | 909M+ |
| 4. Levitating | Dua Lipa | Future Nostalgia | 895M+ |
| 5. Blinding Lights | The Weeknd | After Hours | 849M+ |
| 6. Don't Start Now | Dua Lipa | Future Nostalgia | 714M+ |
| 7. Circles | Post Malone | Hollywood's Bleeding | 695M+ |
1. Life Is Good - 2025
Drake and Future's "Life Is Good" released in 2020, is a vibrant blend of hip-hop and R&B, showcasing the artists' signature styles. The song's infectious beat and contrasting yet complementary verses—Drake's reflections on achievement and Future's opulent boasts—created a powerful synergy. Its massive chart success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multiple award nominations, solidified "Life Is Good" as a defining track of 2020. A testament to their enduring collaborative chemistry, the track's undeniable energy and catchy hooks cemented its place as a modern classic. "Life Is Good" is more than a song; it's an anthem of success, effortlessly blending boasts with undeniable charisma.
2. Memories (2019)
Released in 2020, Maroon 5's "Memories" is a poignant pop ballad that resonated deeply with listeners. Its minimalist arrangement and heartfelt lyrics, reflecting on cherished moments with those lost, created a powerful emotional connection. The song's widespread popularity, evidenced by its chart-topping success and numerous awards nominations, solidified its status as a defining track of 2020. A bittersweet ode to remembrance, "Memories" captures the universal experience of loss and the enduring power of shared experiences.
3. Someone You Loved (Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent - 2025)
Lewis Capaldi's "Someone You Loved" released in 2018, resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, achieving chart-topping success in both the UK and US. This heartfelt ballad, inspired by personal loss and heartbreak, explores the raw emotions of grief and the difficult journey of moving on. Capaldi's powerful vocals and emotionally resonant lyrics created a connection with listeners, evidenced by its widespread popularity and numerous accolades, including a Brit Award and Grammy nomination. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to articulate universal feelings of loss and pain, offering solace and understanding to those experiencing similar emotions. Its impact transcends generations, offering comfort and validating the complexities of heartbreak.
4. Levitating (Dua Lipa)
Released in 2020, Dua Lipa's "Levitating" is an infectious electro-disco track that effortlessly blends shimmering synths with a driving beat. Its irresistible melody and undeniably catchy hook quickly propelled it to global success, earning numerous accolades and topping charts worldwide. The song's joyful energy and uplifting vibe resonated deeply with listeners, making it a defining anthem of 2020 and a testament to Dua Lipa's songwriting prowess. A true dancefloor classic, "Levitating" is a celebration of love and the intoxicating feeling of weightlessness.
5. Blinding Lights (2019)
The Weeknd's "Blinding Lights" a synth-pop masterpiece released in late 2019, achieved phenomenal success. The song's infectious blend of electropop and new wave resonated deeply with listeners, leading to record-breaking chart performance and streams globally. Its four-week reign atop the Billboard Hot 100, along with numerous awards including an MTV VMA and an American Music Award, solidified its status as a modern classic. The track's evocative lyrics, exploring themes of longing and nocturnal romance, have been praised for their ability to evoke feelings of freedom and exhilaration. The song's enduring popularity is further evidenced by its continued presence on charts and the widespread appreciation it receives online.
6Don't Start Now
Dua Lipa
2019
Future Nostalgia
7Circles
Post Malone
2019
Hollywood's Bleeding
8The Box
Roddy Ricch
2020
Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial
9WAP
Cardi B,Megan Thee Stallion
2020
Shoot For The Stars Aim For The Moon
10Laugh Now Cry Later
Drake,Lil Durk
2020
The Off-Season
11Watermelon Sugar
Harry Styles
2019
Fine Line
12Supalonely
Benee, Gus Dapperton
2019
13Smokin Out The Window
Silk Sonic
2021
14The Bigger Picture
Lil Baby
2020
15Rockstar
DaBaby,Roddy Ricch
2020
16Savage Love
Jason Derulo,Jawsh 685
2020
Get Weird (Expanded Edition)
17Roses
Outkast
2003
Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
18Good Days
SZA
2020
SOS
19Dreams
Fleetwood Mac
1977
Rumours (Super Deluxe)
20Adore You
Harry Styles
2019
Fine Line
21Wildfires
SAULT
2020
22The Bones
Maren Morris,Hozier
2020
Unreal Unearth
23Kyoto
Phoebe Bridgers
2020
24I Remember Everything
John Prine
2020
Sweet Revenge
25What Are You Gonna Tell Her
Mickey Guyton
2020
26I Know Alone
HAIM
2020