Top 50 Songs Of 2022: The Ultimate Music Playlist
Hey music lovers! Ready to dive into the best of 2022? I’ve compiled the ultimate playlist featuring the top 50 songs that dominated the charts and captured our hearts. Get ready to relive the year's biggest hits and discover some hidden gems you might have missed. Let's get this party started!
1. As It Was - Harry Styles
No surprise here, right? "As It Was" by Harry Styles was practically the anthem of 2022. From the moment it dropped, it was everywhere – TikTok, radio, your neighbor's car. Its infectious synth-pop melody combined with Harry's smooth vocals created a song that was impossible to resist. The song talks about change and dealing with life's transitions, connecting with listeners on a deeper level. The music video, with its quirky choreography and vibrant colors, perfectly complemented the song's upbeat yet slightly melancholic vibe. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to dance while also contemplating the passage of time. What's even more impressive is how "As It Was" managed to stay relevant throughout the entire year, consistently topping charts and playlists. It's a testament to Harry Styles' artistry and his ability to create music that resonates with a global audience. The song's success also highlights the growing influence of social media, particularly TikTok, in shaping music trends and breaking new hits. So, if you need a dose of nostalgia or just a feel-good tune, "As It Was" is always a solid choice. It’s a timeless track that will likely remain a classic for years to come. The catchy chorus and relatable themes make it a song that you can keep coming back to, no matter what mood you're in. Plus, Harry's charisma shines through in every note, making it an undeniable crowd-pleaser. Trust me, this one's a must-have on any playlist.
2. About Damn Time - Lizzo
Lizzo brought the funk and the self-love anthem we all needed with "About Damn Time." This song is pure confidence in a bottle. The upbeat tempo, catchy lyrics, and Lizzo's powerful vocals create an empowering track that encourages listeners to embrace their inner selves and let loose. It's the perfect song to blast when you're getting ready for a night out or just need a boost of positivity. The song’s message is all about celebrating yourself and not letting anyone bring you down. It’s a reminder that you are amazing just the way you are, and that’s something we all need to hear from time to time. Lizzo's energy is infectious, and her ability to connect with her audience through her music is truly remarkable. "About Damn Time" became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless dance challenges and spreading a message of self-acceptance and body positivity. The song's success also highlights the importance of representation in music and the power of artists like Lizzo to challenge societal norms and promote inclusivity. So, if you're ever feeling down or just need a reminder of how awesome you are, put on "About Damn Time" and let Lizzo's infectious energy lift you up. It’s a song that will make you want to dance, sing, and celebrate everything that makes you, you. And who knows, you might even discover a newfound sense of self-confidence along the way. This song is a gift that keeps on giving, and it's definitely one of the standout tracks of 2022.
3. First Class - Jack Harlow
Jack Harlow's "First Class" took the world by storm with its smooth blend of hip-hop and pop. The song samples Fergie's iconic "Glamorous," giving it a nostalgic twist that resonated with audiences of all ages. Harlow's laid-back delivery and clever lyrics create a track that's both catchy and cool. It's the kind of song that you can cruise to, vibe to, or just chill out with. The song’s success can be attributed to its clever sampling, Harlow's undeniable charisma, and its overall feel-good vibe. It’s a song that makes you feel like you're living the high life, even if you're just stuck in traffic. Harlow's rise to fame has been meteoric, and "First Class" solidified his place as one of the hottest artists in the game. His ability to blend different genres and create music that appeals to a wide audience is truly impressive. The song's popularity also highlights the enduring appeal of sampling and the power of nostalgia in music. By incorporating elements of a classic song, Harlow was able to create something that felt both familiar and fresh. So, if you're looking for a song that's both stylish and fun, "First Class" is definitely worth checking out. It’s a track that will get you in the mood to celebrate life's little luxuries, and it's a testament to Harlow's talent and creativity. This one's a certified banger that will have you singing along in no time.
4. Heat Waves - Glass Animals
While technically released in 2020, "Heat Waves" by Glass Animals had its major breakthrough in 2022, dominating charts and playlists worldwide. This indie-pop gem is known for its dreamy atmosphere, captivating melody, and introspective lyrics. The song explores themes of longing, nostalgia, and the complexities of relationships. Its hypnotic beat and ethereal soundscapes create a captivating listening experience that draws you in from the first note. What's remarkable about "Heat Waves" is its ability to evoke a sense of both melancholy and hope. The song's lyrics are open to interpretation, allowing listeners to project their own experiences and emotions onto the music. This relatability is one of the key reasons why the song resonated with so many people. Glass Animals' unique sound and their willingness to experiment with different genres have earned them a dedicated fan base, and "Heat Waves" is a perfect example of their artistic vision. The song's success also highlights the power of word-of-mouth and the importance of independent artists finding their voice in a crowded music landscape. So, if you're looking for a song that's both thought-provoking and sonically pleasing, "Heat Waves" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of music to connect us all.
5. Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God) - Kate Bush
Talk about a resurgence! Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)," originally released in 1985, experienced a massive comeback in 2022 thanks to its prominent feature in the Netflix series "Stranger Things." The song's haunting melody, powerful vocals, and themes of sacrifice and understanding resonated with a new generation of listeners. It's a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences with its emotional depth. The song’s revival is a testament to the power of music to transcend generations and the impact of popular culture in shaping music trends. "Running Up That Hill" became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless covers, remixes, and interpretations. Kate Bush's artistry and her ability to create music that is both timeless and relevant have earned her a legendary status in the music industry. The song's success also highlights the importance of music placement in film and television and the ability of these mediums to introduce classic songs to new audiences. So, if you're looking for a song that's both iconic and emotionally resonant, "Running Up That Hill" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of music to connect us across generations.
6. Stay - The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber
The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber teamed up to deliver the mega-hit "Stay," an inescapable earworm that dominated the airwaves in 2022. The song's catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the contrasting vocal styles of the two artists created a perfect storm of pop perfection. It's a song about longing, vulnerability, and the desire for connection. The song's production is slick and modern, with a driving beat and infectious hooks that will have you singing along in no time. What's remarkable about "Stay" is its ability to appeal to a wide range of listeners, from teenagers to adults. The song's themes are universal, and its catchiness is undeniable. The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber's collaboration was a match made in pop heaven, and "Stay" solidified their places as two of the biggest stars in the music industry. The song's success also highlights the power of collaborations and the ability of artists to reach new audiences by working together. So, if you're looking for a song that's both catchy and emotionally resonant, "Stay" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of pop music to connect us all.
7. Enemy - Imagine Dragons x JID
Imagine Dragons and JID joined forces to create "Enemy," a powerful and genre-bending track that served as the theme song for the animated series "Arcane." The song's dark and brooding atmosphere, intense lyrics, and the contrasting vocal styles of Dan Reynolds and JID create a captivating and thought-provoking listening experience. It's a song about conflict, inner demons, and the struggle to find peace. The song's production is innovative and experimental, blending elements of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. What's remarkable about "Enemy" is its ability to capture the essence of the "Arcane" series while also standing on its own as a powerful and meaningful song. The collaboration between Imagine Dragons and JID was a stroke of genius, and "Enemy" solidified their places as two of the most creative and innovative artists in the music industry. The song's success also highlights the power of music in film and television and the ability of these mediums to enhance the storytelling experience. So, if you're looking for a song that's both intense and thought-provoking, "Enemy" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of music to explore complex themes and emotions.
8. Bad Habit - Steve Lacy
Steve Lacy's "Bad Habit" is a smooth and soulful track that showcases his unique blend of R&B, funk, and indie rock. The song's laid-back groove, introspective lyrics, and Lacy's velvety vocals create a captivating and intimate listening experience. It's a song about missed opportunities, regret, and the complexities of human connection. The song's production is minimalist and understated, allowing Lacy's vocals and lyrics to take center stage. What's remarkable about "Bad Habit" is its ability to create a mood and atmosphere that is both relaxing and thought-provoking. Steve Lacy's talent and his willingness to experiment with different genres have earned him a dedicated fan base, and "Bad Habit" is a perfect example of his artistic vision. The song's success also highlights the importance of authenticity and the ability of artists to connect with their audience by being true to themselves. So, if you're looking for a song that's both smooth and introspective, "Bad Habit" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of music to explore personal experiences and emotions.
9. Me Porto Bonito - Bad Bunny & Chencho Corleone
Bad Bunny, the king of Latin trap, teamed up with Chencho Corleone to deliver the infectious hit "Me Porto Bonito." This song is a vibrant and energetic celebration of summer, love, and good vibes. The song's catchy beat, playful lyrics, and the contrasting vocal styles of Bad Bunny and Chencho Corleone create a perfect storm of Latin flavor. It's a song that will make you want to dance, sing, and soak up the sun. The song's production is slick and modern, blending elements of reggaeton, Latin trap, and pop. What's remarkable about "Me Porto Bonito" is its ability to appeal to a wide range of listeners, regardless of their language or cultural background. Bad Bunny's global appeal is undeniable, and "Me Porto Bonito" solidified his place as one of the biggest stars in the world. The song's success also highlights the growing popularity of Latin music and the ability of artists to break down barriers and connect with audiences across cultures. So, if you're looking for a song that's both fun and infectious, "Me Porto Bonito" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of music to celebrate diversity and bring people together.
10. Tití Me Preguntó - Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny strikes again with "Tití Me Preguntó," another massive hit that showcases his versatility and undeniable charisma. This song is a high-energy blend of reggaeton, Latin trap, and dembow, with a catchy beat and playful lyrics that will have you singing along in no time. The song's title translates to "Tití Asked Me," and the lyrics tell a story about Bad Bunny's encounters with different women. It's a fun and lighthearted track that celebrates the joys of life and love. The song's production is innovative and experimental, blending traditional Latin rhythms with modern electronic sounds. What's remarkable about "Tití Me Preguntó" is its ability to appeal to a wide range of listeners, from casual fans to hardcore reggaeton enthusiasts. Bad Bunny's global appeal is undeniable, and "Tití Me Preguntó" solidified his place as one of the biggest stars in the world. The song's success also highlights the growing popularity of Latin music and the ability of artists to break down barriers and connect with audiences across cultures. So, if you're looking for a song that's both fun and infectious, "Tití Me Preguntó" is a must-listen. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the music stops, and it's a testament to the power of music to celebrate diversity and bring people together.
The Rest of the Best: Honorable Mentions
Of course, no list can truly capture every great song from 2022, but here are some other bangers that deserve a listen:
- abcdefu - GAYLE
- The Motto - Tiësto & Ava Max
- We Don't Talk About Bruno - Encanto Cast
- Wait for U - Future ft. Drake & Tems
- Late Night Talking - Harry Styles
- Big Energy - Latto
- Super Freaky Girl - Nicki Minaj
- Unholy - Sam Smith & Kim Petras
- Calm Down - Rema
- Die For You - The Weeknd
Conclusion
2022 was an amazing year for music, wasn't it? From Harry Styles' chart-toppers to Kate Bush's unexpected resurgence, there was something for everyone. This playlist is just a starting point, so dive in, explore, and discover your own favorites from the year! What were your top songs of 2022? Let me know in the comments below!