Most 2010s Song: Defining The Decade's Music

Hey guys! Ever find yourself reminiscing about the 2010s? The music from that decade was something else, right? From the rise of electronic dance music (EDM) to the explosion of pop anthems and the evolution of hip-hop, the 2010s were a melting pot of sounds. But if you had to pick just one song that perfectly encapsulates the vibe of the entire decade, which would it be? That’s the question we’re diving into today.

The 2010s Music Scene: A Quick Look Back

Before we get into specific tracks, let’s set the stage. The 2010s were a time of massive change in the music industry. Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music became dominant, changing how we consume music. Social media platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram played a huge role in breaking new artists and making songs go viral. Remember when “Gangnam Style” took over the world? That was peak 2010s! This era saw the rise of various genres and subgenres, making it a diverse and exciting time for music lovers.

Pop music experienced a major shift, with artists like Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and Beyoncé dominating the charts. EDM exploded in popularity, thanks to DJs like David Guetta, Avicii, and Skrillex. Hip-hop continued to evolve, with artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Kanye West pushing boundaries and shaping the culture. Indie music also had its moment, with bands like Arcade Fire, Mumford & Sons, and The Lumineers gaining mainstream attention.

With all that in mind, pinpointing the most 2010s song is no easy task. It needs to capture the essence of the decade's musical trends, cultural moments, and technological shifts. So, let’s explore some contenders and see which one truly embodies the spirit of the 2010s.

Contender #1: “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele

Let’s kick things off with a powerhouse ballad that took the world by storm: “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele. Released in late 2010, this song became an instant classic and set the tone for the decade. Adele’s raw vocals, combined with the song's powerful instrumentation and emotional lyrics, resonated with millions of listeners. It’s hard to deny the impact this song had on the music scene.

Why it screams 2010s:

• Emotional Authenticity: In a decade where authenticity became increasingly valued, Adele's genuine emotion in "Rolling in the Deep" struck a chord. The song is about heartbreak and empowerment, themes that many people could relate to. Its raw and unfiltered emotion stood in contrast to some of the more heavily produced pop songs of the time.
• Global Phenomenon: "Rolling in the Deep" wasn't just a hit in English-speaking countries; it topped charts worldwide. Its universal appeal transcended language barriers, making it a truly global phenomenon. This kind of widespread success was emblematic of the interconnected world of the 2010s, where music could travel across borders faster than ever before.
• Return to Classic Songwriting: While the 2010s saw a rise in electronic and heavily produced music, "Rolling in the Deep" reminded everyone of the power of classic songwriting. With its timeless melody, strong vocal performance, and relatable lyrics, the song demonstrated that great songwriting could still conquer the charts. It paved the way for other artists to embrace a more traditional approach.
• Cultural Impact: The song's popularity led to countless covers, parodies, and appearances in TV shows and movies. It became a cultural touchstone, referenced and celebrated across various forms of media. This widespread recognition further solidified its place in the 2010s zeitgeist. Everyone, and I mean everyone, knew this song.

Contender #2: “We Found Love” by Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris

Next up, we have an EDM-infused pop anthem that defined the sound of the early 2010s: “We Found Love” by Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris. Released in 2011, this song perfectly captured the energy and excitement of the EDM boom. Rihanna’s vocals, combined with Calvin Harris’s infectious beats, created a dance-pop masterpiece that dominated radio airwaves and clubs around the world. It was impossible to escape this song back then!

Why it screams 2010s:

• EDM Influence: The early 2010s saw a massive surge in the popularity of EDM, and "We Found Love" was at the forefront of this movement. The song's driving beat, catchy synth melodies, and euphoric drop were all hallmarks of the EDM sound. It helped bring electronic music into the mainstream and influenced countless artists who followed.
• Pop-EDM Crossover: "We Found Love" perfectly blended the worlds of pop and EDM. Rihanna's pop sensibilities, combined with Calvin Harris's electronic production, created a sound that appealed to a wide audience. This crossover approach became a defining characteristic of 2010s pop music, with many artists incorporating electronic elements into their sound.
• Festival Culture: The song became an anthem for the growing festival culture of the 2010s. Its high-energy beats and sing-along chorus made it a perfect fit for music festivals like Coachella and Ultra. It captured the feeling of freedom, excitement, and community that defined these events.
• Visual Impact: The music video for "We Found Love," directed by Melina Matsoukas, was just as impactful as the song itself. The video's gritty, raw aesthetic and depiction of a tumultuous relationship resonated with many viewers. It generated buzz and conversation, further cementing the song's place in popular culture. The video was controversial, but definitely memorable.

Contender #3: “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

Now, let's switch gears to a more heartfelt and romantic tune: “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran. Released in 2014, this song became a wedding staple and a symbol of enduring love. Sheeran’s soulful vocals, combined with the song's simple yet beautiful melody, made it an instant classic for couples everywhere. It’s a song that still gets played at weddings today!

Why it screams 2010s:

• Rise of Singer-Songwriters: Ed Sheeran's success with "Thinking Out Loud" reflected the rise of singer-songwriters in the 2010s. In an era dominated by pop stars and electronic music, Sheeran's acoustic-driven sound offered a refreshing alternative. His ability to connect with listeners through his heartfelt lyrics and genuine personality made him a star.
• Social Media Impact: Social media played a significant role in the success of "Thinking Out Loud." The song became a popular choice for first dance videos on YouTube and Instagram, further boosting its popularity. Its romantic lyrics and timeless melody made it a perfect fit for these types of videos.
• Timeless Appeal: While many songs from the 2010s sound dated today, "Thinking Out Loud" has a timeless quality that transcends the decade. Its simple melody, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful vocals make it a song that will likely be enjoyed for years to come. This enduring appeal is a testament to the power of great songwriting.
• Wedding Anthem: "Thinking Out Loud" became the go-to song for weddings in the 2010s and beyond. Its romantic lyrics and slow tempo made it a perfect choice for first dances. The song's association with weddings further solidified its place in popular culture. If you went to a wedding in the mid-2010s, chances are you heard this song.

Contender #4: “Happy” by Pharrell Williams

Let's jump back to something upbeat and infectious with “Happy” by Pharrell Williams. Released in 2013, this song was, well, happy! Its simple, feel-good message and catchy melody made it a global phenomenon. It was impossible to listen to this song without wanting to dance along.

Why it screams 2010s:

• Viral Phenomenon: "Happy" was one of the first songs to truly go viral in the 2010s. The song's music video, which featured people from all walks of life dancing to the song, spawned countless imitations and tributes. This viral success demonstrated the power of social media to spread music and create a global phenomenon.
• Feel-Good Anthems: In a decade marked by political and social unrest, "Happy" offered a much-needed dose of positivity. The song's simple, feel-good message resonated with listeners around the world. It reminded everyone to focus on the good things in life and to find joy in the everyday moments.
• Cross-Cultural Appeal: "Happy" transcended cultural boundaries and became a hit in countries all over the world. Its simple message and infectious melody appealed to people of all ages and backgrounds. This cross-cultural appeal is a hallmark of the 2010s, a decade in which music became increasingly globalized.
• Ubiquitous Presence: "Happy" was everywhere in 2014. It was played on the radio, in stores, and at sporting events. It was used in commercials, TV shows, and movies. The song's ubiquitous presence made it a defining sound of the year. You couldn't turn on the radio without hearing it.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Okay, guys, after looking at these contenders, which song truly represents the 2010s the most? Each of these songs captured a specific aspect of the decade’s music scene, whether it was the emotional authenticity of Adele, the EDM energy of Rihanna and Calvin Harris, the singer-songwriter charm of Ed Sheeran, or the feel-good vibes of Pharrell Williams. Choosing just one is tough!

If I had to pick, I’d lean towards "We Found Love" by Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris. It perfectly encapsulates the rise of EDM, the crossover between pop and electronic music, and the festival culture that defined the early 2010s. Plus, it was just an absolute banger that everyone loved (or loved to hate!).

But honestly, all of these songs deserve recognition for their impact on the 2010s. They each tell a story about the decade’s musical trends, cultural moments, and technological shifts. What do you think? Which song do you think is the most 2010s song of all time? Let me know in the comments!