When you look back on the Western music scene of the 2010s, which hit songs come to mind?
It was an era when overwhelmingly popular pop stars rose to prominence—led by Lady Gaga—and while many timeless tracks by solo artists like Ed Sheeran and Adele, who conquered the world from the UK, were born, the 2010s also marked the time when hip-hop surpassed rock in sales.
With the advent of streaming, the way we access music changed dramatically, and genres diversified.
Let’s revisit the hit songs of the 2010s in this article!
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Hit Western songs of the 2010s: recommended classics (1–10)
Shape of YouEd Sheeran
Since the 2010s, Ed Sheeran, a UK-born artist who has achieved global success, has enjoyed high name recognition in Japan as well.
A multitalented troubadour with an innate melodic sensibility and a wonderful singing voice, he remains unpretentiously himself—and that contrast is part of his charm.
Here, we introduce his massively successful single released in March 2017, which topped charts around the world.
Set to a breezy rhythm incorporating elements of dancehall and tropical house, the song tells the story of a romance that begins with a chance meeting at a bar.
Ed’s signature vocal style—somewhere between rapping and melody—shines throughout.
AlrightKendrick Lamar
Released in 2015, Kendrick Lamar’s song is widely recognized as a social anthem reflecting the experiences of the African American community in the United States.
An American artist, Lamar addresses important themes such as police brutality and systemic racism in this track, while delivering a message of hope even in difficult circumstances.
The song is included on Lamar’s third album, To Pimp a Butterfly, and was released as a single in June 2015.
The music video was shot entirely in black and white and won Best Direction at the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a highly recommended track for those interested in social issues or captivated by the profound expressive power of hip-hop.
Wake Me UpAvicii
Released in June 2013 by Avicii, the Swedish artist who tragically passed away at a young age, “Wake Me Up” is truly one of the greatest songs of the 2010s and a summer anthem to remember.
Its distinctive blend of folktronica and EDM, paired with lyrics about youth and self-discovery, set it apart.
The track topped the charts in over 20 countries and garnered more than 2 billion views on YouTube, resonating worldwide.
Embracing those in the midst of life’s journey and inspiring hope for the future, this song is recommended not only for young people but for anyone on a path of self-exploration.
Uptown Funk (ft. Bruno Mars)Mark Ronson
Released in November 2014, this track is a captivating modern reinterpretation of 1980s funk music.
Created through a collaboration between British artist Mark Ronson and American singer Bruno Mars, it features lyrics that celebrate a confident, stylish way of life, along with the memorable, addictive phrase “don’t believe me, just watch.” It spent 14 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won Record of the Year at the 2016 Grammy Awards, becoming one of the defining hits of the 2010s.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to lift your spirits or regain your confidence.
HappyPharrell Williams
This is a funky, pop masterpiece by Pharrell Williams, released in 2013 and a global smash hit.
Created by the American artist for the soundtrack of the film Despicable Me 2, it was later included on his album Girl.
Beyond the song’s obvious appeal, its groundbreaking “world’s first 24-hour music video” also drew major attention.
Tribute videos featuring ordinary people dancing to the track began popping up across the globe, further fueling its success.
It’s the perfect song to lift your spirits.
Breake Free（feat.Zedd）Ariana Grande
Tension at MAX! An electronic-style pop track.
It keeps soaring in the high register and is an absolute hype song.
Ariana Grande’s smooth, glossy, and sexy vocals are incredibly captivating.
It gives both girls and boys energy and courage.
Highly recommended if you want to get pumped up.
I Like ItCardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin
One collaboration that many people would consider a defining hit of the 2010s is the track by Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin.
Set to a sound that fuses Latin trap and hip-hop, the three artists proudly sing about their cultural roots.
Released in April 2018, it reached No.
1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, marking Cardi B’s second No.
1 and making her the first female rapper in history to achieve this milestone.
The lyrics, celebrating a lavish lifestyle and pride in success, are likely to resonate with a confident younger generation.