100 Best Songs of 2020: Year in Review | Playlist 🎧

98. Ryan Beatty, “Flowers at the Door”

💿 Dreaming of David • 🏷 Boy in Jeans / Mad Love / Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 51 ⬇

“Draw on the pages, I won’t erase it / I want your mark on me, eternal.” 💿 Dreaming of David, the sophomore album by openly gay pop singer/songwriter 🎙 Ryan Beatty didn’t get much buzz. Regardless, 🎵 “Flowers at the Door” is a pretty ‘hot’ (and definitely horny) record worth mentioning – starting things off on 🎧 100 BEST SONGS OF 2020 with a ‘BANG!’ Beatty totally ‘feels some type of way’ about this particular guy, enjoying a hot, freaky, and steamy sexual experience (“Our heads connected, I got the message / You had your hands around my skull /…I look up to you when I’m below”). That sexual experience is artfully executed sans profanity, but definitely “not that innocent,” Britney!

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97. Black Atlass, “Lie to Me”

💿 Dream Awake • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 49 ⬇

On 🎵 “Lie to Me” (💿 Dream Awake), 🎙 Black Atlass (Alex Fleming) perfectly captures the plight of love. 🎙 DANNYBOYSTYLES and 🎙 Oligee provide Fleming with a mighty backdrop to paint his colorful, expressive, and sexy vocals upon including lush keyboards, synths, and anchoring beat. Throw in a minor-key, and the vibe is absolutely electrifying on “Lie to Me.” The listener is most blessed by Fleming on the chorus, where the lyric, “lie to me,” features epic, falsetto treatment. Besides the chorus, there are plenty alluring moments regarding the songwriting. Fleming experiences heartbreak, and as he sees his ex, he doesn’t want to know about her current relationship. Therefore, she should – wait for it – LIE. Clearly still in love, Fleming admits he is to blame for their break-up, admitting, “I fucked this up / You know I can be brave / I can be kind / I can be yours / Just give me time…” Ultimately, “Lie to Me” is a treat, with relatable songwriting and theme perfectly tailored to his strengths artistically.

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96. Logic, “Celebration”

Ft. Silas

💿 No Pressure • 🏷 Def Jam • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“Ayy, it’s a celebration, bitches / Came a long way from bus stops and washing dishes / From rags to bitches / Stovetop to Mastro’s, man, this shit is delicious.” For 🎙 Logic, the pressure is off, or so the title of his purported final studio album, 💿No Pressure (2020), informs us. One of the best songs from the album is 🎵 “Celebration.” the fourth track. “Celebration” features three verses. Two of those verses – the first and third – belong to Logic, while the second comes courtesy of rapper 🎙 Silas. Silas gets a full verse, but concludes his bars mid-phrase, allowing Logic to segue into a briefer third verse. The transition is pretty smooth mind you and definitely a cool effect. Indeed a ‘celebration,’ the record is a flex-fest in just about every way, including agile, exuberant rhymes, and sample-laden, old-school production (No I.D and Logic). Celebration indeed!

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95. AC/DC, “Shot in the Dark”

💿 Power Up • 🏷 Leidseplein Presse, B.V. • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“My mission is to hit ignition!” Iconic Australian hard rock band 🎙 AC/DC returned with brand-new studio album in 2020, 💿 POWER UP. Promoting the new LP was the fantastic, hard rocking 🎵 “Shot in the Dark”. The guitars roar and the drums pound (with ample cymbal) throughout. The signature, high-pitched vocals by 🎙 Brian Johnson are potent as always. He’s incredibly assertive, never afraid to dig in. The lyrics are pretty simple and straightforward, with the best moment arriving via the epic chorus, with memorable, sing-along lyrics (“A shot in the dark make it feel alright…” The veterans may not bring anything particularly innovative to the table, but “Shot in the Dark” is simply a good, hard rock record.

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94. Shawn Mendes & Justin Bieber, “Monster”

💿 Wonder • 🏷 Island • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

It finally happened – a collaboration between two former teen heartthrobs. That’s right! 🏆 Grammy-nominated Canadian pop artist 🎙 Shawn Mendes and 🏆 Grammy-winning Canadian pop artist 🎙 Justin Bieber join forces on 🎵 “Monster”, which appears on Mendes’ fourth studio album, 💿 Wonder. Sleekly produced, 🎙 Frank Dukes, 🎙 Matthew Tavares, and 🎙 Kaan Gunesberk give Mendes and Bieber a sweet backdrop to work with. There’s a soulfulness about this pop track, starting with the production. Of course, with two skilled, soulful vocals, it’s reflected within the vocal performances. Mendes kicks things off, impressing with his gorgeous, vulnerable pipes, singing about the ups and downs of fame and superstardom. Bieber takes a similar perspective on the second verse, mentioning the mistakes he’s made and adds on the bridge how hard it’s been to redeem himself. The centerpiece, the chorus, is quite powerful and emotional. Both artists marvelously, and both do a fine job capturing the plight of fame.

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93. Marvin Sapp, “Thank You for It All”

💿 Chosen Vessel • 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I thank you for it all / The good, bad, the ugly, great and small / The times of victory when I fall / I’m so grateful that I’m still standing tall.” Amen, 🎙 Marvin Sapp! 🎵 “Thank You for It All,” The opener from 💿 Chosen Vessel just feels totally right. Sapp emphasizes giving God gratitude for all situations, including those that are the most difficult and uncomfortable. Why, you ask, would you ever be thankful for the bad? Well, per Sapp, it is because God has blessed us with life itself, as well as surviving the storms, turbulence, and tribulations that come with it. The songwriting is simple, yet, perfectly executed. Sapp’s choir amplifies his emotional highs, taking “Thank You for It All,” to the next level. Whether you’re religious or not, you should appreciate the spirit exhibited – the deference Marvin shows to The Most High.

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92. Big Sean, “Deep Reverence”

Ft. Nipsey Hussle

💿 Detroit 2 • 🏷 Def Jam • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

On 🎵 “Deep Reverence”, 🎙 Big Sean enlists an assist from the late, great Grammy-winning rapper, 🎙 Nipsey Hussle. Although not everyone wanted him to release it an advance single, “Deep Reverence” ends up being quite special. Nipsey takes first blood, kicking off his verse with a bang, followed by the sole chorus, derived from the opening lines of Nipsey’s verse. Sean continues to be a force on his fifth studio album 💿 Detroit 2, notably delivering agile rhymes and continuing to be honest and incredibly transparent. Throughout his honest verse, he reflects on life including a beef with Kendrick Lamar, a miscarriage with his ex-girlfriend (Jhené Aiko), anxiety, and depression.

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91. The Rolling Stones, “Living in a Ghost Town”

🎵 “Living in a Ghost Town” • 🏷 Promotone B.V. • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 35 ⬇

“Once this place was hummin’ / And the air was full of drummin’ / The sound of cymbals crashin’ / Glasses were all smashin’.” The key takeaway from the chorus of 🎵 “Living in a Ghost Town”: everything is dead. Honestly, this ghost town that 🎙 The Rolling Stones describe perfectly captures the way life feels during the coronavirus pandemic. 🎙 Mick Jagger makes it clear “Living in a Ghost Town” wasn’t inspired by the pandemic but feels appropriate for times such as those. Just as he told Apple music, the lyrics perfectly capture “a place which was full of life but is now bereft of life.” “Life was so beautiful / Then we all got liked down,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “Feel like a ghost / Living in a ghost town.” The second verse is also very representative of the times: “So much time to lose / Just starin’ at my phone / … Please let this be over, not stuck in a world without end, my friend.” Adding to the excellence are vocals infused with ample personality, and an instrumental comprised of ripe guitars, a robust bass line, groovy drums, and harmonica. Just what the doctor ordered!

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90. Perfume Genius, “On the Floor”

💿 Set My Heart on Fire Immediately • 🏷 Matador • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 47 ⬇

💿 Set My Heart on Fire Immediately is a superb album by 🎙 Perfume Genius (Mike Hadreas). What makes Set My Heart on Fire Immediately stand out are the vocals and songwriting by Hadreas, as well as the variety of contrasts that appear from start to finish. An art-pop project to the core, the album still manages to provide variety from more intimate to more energetic and overt performances. One of the reasons why Set My Heart on Fire Immediately is so 🔥 is 🎵 “On the Floor,” where desire is clearly ‘doing a number’ on Hadreas. “On the floor / I pace, I run my mouth,” he sings, continuing, “I pray, and wait / I cross out his name on the page.” Geez Louise! The excellent single gets more vivid, with the ultimate goal being fulfillment through love. In the context of Set My Heart on Fire Immediately, it’s quicker, more energetic, and more commercial than most of the album. It also marks one of the best produced efforts.

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89. Bruce Springsteen, “Letter to You”

💿 Letter to You • 🏷 Bruce Springsteen • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Letter to You” appears as the second track off of 💿 Letter to You, the 20^th studio album by rock icon, 🎙 Bruce Springsteen – THE BOSS baby! “Letter to You” kicks off with an unapologetic rock intro; there’s definitely some spunk! The production (Springsteen and 🎙 Ron Aniello) is great overall. The musicianship exhibited from start to finish is awesome, including strong vocals by Bruce, who doesn’t miss a beat in his early 70s. As always, the songwriting is solid. It’s relatively simple but ultimately telling and thoughtful. The chorus is strong, highlighting the titular lyrics four times (“In my letter to you”). An instrumental follows the chorus bringing contrast and a great opportunity for the band to flex.

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88. Justin Bieber, “Holy”

Ft. Chance the Rapper

🎵 “Holy” • 🏷 Def Jam • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

On 🎵 “Holy”, the 🏆 Grammy-winning pop superstar 🎙 Justin Bieber taps 🏆 Grammy-winning rapper 🎙 Chance the Rapper for the assist with positive results. A number of songwriters in addition to Bieber and Chance, make “Holy.” Furthermore, five producers are attributed to the record. They definitely craft the many things to like about the record, particularly the blend of blend of pop, soul with some gospel cues. Early on, Bieber provides us with beautiful vocals showing off his lovely tone and soulful vibes. He sings two verses, supported by choral vocals on the catchy chorus that follows each. As for Chance the Rapper, his verse is lengthy, beginning with melodic-driven rap before he opts for straight, agile, un-pitched rhymes. He’s the perfect fit. One final note, must shout-out how rousing “Holy” becomes towards the end, amplifying the gospel sensibilities even more. Praises!

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87. Aloe Blacc, “My Way”

All Love Everything • 🏷 BMG Rights Management • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

Thankfully, the talented 🎙 Aloe Blacc returned in 2020, following a six-year hiatus. Ushering in his comeback album, 💿 All Love Everything, is the marvelous single, 🎵 “My Way”. If you were all-in on “The Man” in 2014, well, you’ll feel the same about “My Way.” The sound and vibe are very similar. First and foremost, Blacc sounds absolutely amazing with his voice sounding as elite, polished, smooth, and soulful as ever. Next, the production manages to brilliant fuse pop, contemporary R&B, and soul. There’s classicism, yet “My Way” never sounds anachronistic either. The third component that makes “My Way” a bop-and-a-half – one of the 100 BEST SONGS OF 2020??? The songwriting! It’s relatable, simple yet thoughtful. The chorus is catchy and uplifting (“I can make it through this / You can throw the world in my face / But the fear gives me life / And I swear ‘til I die / I’m gonna do it my way”).

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86. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “What’ve I Done to Help”

💿 Reunions • 🏷 Southeastern • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“What’ve I done to help? / What’ve I done to help? / Somebody save me / What’ve I done to help? / What’ve I done to help? / And not myself?” 💿 Reunions, the 2020 studio album by 🎙 Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, kicks off in truly epic fashion with 🎵 “What’ve I Done to Help.” The six-and-a-half-minute-plus juggernaut features a heaping dose of rhythmic acoustic guitar (electric too), strings, and ample soulfulness from 🎙 Jason Isbell. Further contributing to the epic nature of the opener is a simple but incredibly catchy and effective chorus (aforementioned), and strong, personal and introspective songwriting overall. Notably, Isbell speaks about his past missteps (But I cut anchor and I drifted out to sea / And you found me busted and somehow you trust / I was not what I could be”).

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85. Gregory Porter, “Revival”

💿 All Rise • 🏷 Decca • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 50 ⬇

🏆 Grammy-winning musician 🎙 Gregory Porter certainly ‘brings the spirit’ on 🎵 “Revival” from his sixth studio album, 💿 All Rise. This Porter, 🎙 Oliver Rockberger, and 🎙 Troy Miller co-write is epic! Focusing on Porter, he’s an incredibly gifted, versatile musician with absolutely stunning pipes. On “Revival,” he expands beyond a jazz script infusing blues, soul, and gospel. The anchoring rhythmic groove is hip enough for 2020 without compromising or sacrificing the sanctity of jazz. Vocally, Porter gives a balanced performance, not revealing all his cards initially. He saves some of his soulful nuances and runs until the “Revival” percolates. Furthermore, he’s accentuated by an epic sounding gospel choir, and punchy horns. The spirit is definitely patterned after the high-flying feel of a church revival or ‘tent meeting.’ Musically, Troy Miller delivers an awesome arrangement and production with all musicians excelling in their respective roles. The songwriting gets an enthusiastic thumbs up. What’s not to like about “Revival?”

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84. Brakence, “fuckboy”

💿 Punk2 • 🏷 brakence • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 39 ⬇

“Fuckboy tryna play my homie / But 2020 I’ma take time on me / Out the window where my mainline goes / This is sacrilegious how I’m gon’ fade off IG.” What better than a teenager (🎙 brakence) who is able to express pain? Angst is a potent and powerful thing! Even better is the fact that he not only reflects on loss (“Heartache comes in many forms” or “This shit ain’t the same if I can’t breathe your air”) but strives to be a better person. That means, some tough decisions, which he opens up about on the second verse (“Shouldn’t fall in love and I shouldn’t go to college.” Besides the honest, and ‘swagger-laden’ lyrics, “fuckboy” features unique production work. It’s best characterized as pop, but not straightforward. The beat adds a hip-hop sensibility, as do the pitch-shifted vocals. A fuckboy definitely has a negative connotation, but this 🎵 “Fuckboy” (💿 Punk2) is pretty sweet!

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83. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Dreamsicle”

💿 Reunions • 🏷 Southeastern • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 28 ⬇

🎙 Jason Isbell is one of the best singer/songwriters of modern times, period. Alongside 🎙 The 400 Unit, he continues to excel at his craft on 💿 Reunions, among the best albums of 2020. Among the gems from Reunions is “Dreamsicle,” where Isbell delivers a marvelous, poetic chorus. In addition to the chorus, there are three thoughtfully penned verses, capturing some truly sad situations. On the first verse, it comes from the perspective of a frequently moving child. On the second, Mama is sad, and the child wants Daddy to come home – “We need help.” On the third, final, and most accomplished verse, the escapism is real (Isbell has always had a knack for this). The child looks forward to freedom from this unfortunate tale: “Broken glass and broken glass / I’ll be 18 four years from now / With different friends in a different town / I’ll finally be free.”

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82. Isaac Dunbar, “Isaac’s Insects”

💿 Isaac’s Insects (EP) • 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 36 ⬇

“Why are all of Isaac’s Insects insane? / Terrorize his life and pick apart his brain.” Good and quite intriguing question, by all means – thought provoking! 🎙 Isaac Dunbar showcases his incredible talents on the unique 🎵 “Isaac’s Insects” from his 2020 EP, 💿 Isaac’s Insects. Apparently, the ‘insects’ know too much about Isaac, something he emphasizes throughout the course of the song. From the onset of this minor key cut, he sings, on the first verse, “Insects know my secret life / They on my walls only at night / To judge me / Oh, how they judge me.” On the second verse, the ‘creepy crawlers’ are even worse. As much as he tries to rid of them, they simply won’t go away, best exemplified by the crowning achievement, the chorus where “I’ve had enough of beady eyes /And men in black who know my lies…” Obviously, via the compelling lyrics, Dunbar isn’t talking about literal insects, but fans who go to the absolute extreme. He sounds fantastic, whether he’s singing in harmony, falsetto, or even dabbling in autotune/pitch shift. The backdrop is also pretty sweet, with the synths and the infectious, enigmatic groove.

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81. Ruel, “As Long as You Care”

💿 Bright Lights, Red Eyes [EP] • 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I’m sun-dried, my lips are high on overdrive / I’m so tired,” 🎙 Ruel sings on the first verse of 🎵 “as long as you care” (💿 Bright Lights, Red Eyes [EP]), continuing, “I’m sorry if I’m low on confidence… / I’m sorry, but my brain is fried.” The Australian teen heartthrob has a truly rich, soulful, and expressive voice. He sings with incredible authenticity, expression, and nuance on this co-write with producer 🎙 M-Phazes. M-Phazes production delivers some sensational throwback vibes from the R&B of the past, yet the sounds are also fresh. Matters of the heart take front and center. Furthermore, the catchy, memorable chorus serves as the centerpiece (“But don’t cry, I know that you care / You have no idea / It’s all bright lights and red eyes / Bright lights and red eyes”). Ruel = musical godsend.

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80. Keedron Bryant, “I Just Wanna Live”

💿 Reunions • 🏷 Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I’m a young black man / Doing all that I can / …I’m being hunted as prey / My people don’t want no trouble / We’ve had enough struggle.” A moving, viral clip can indeed do big things. 🎙 Keedron Bryant, a Florida teen R&B/gospel singer is a living testament to this. The 13-year old went viral thanks to a song written by his mom (🎙 Johnnetta Rayshele Bryant) that perfectly captures the feelings of the black community, particularly black males, given so many incidents of racial injustice, inequality, and police brutality. Bryant would land a major-label record deal with Warner, which is absolutely impressive given both his age and the impact of 🎵 “I Just Wanna Live” itself. His debut EP, 💿 I Just Wanna Live, features three versions of his viral hit. The main version commences the album. Here, Bryant sounds absolutely amazing – much more mature and seasoned beyond his youth. His tone is gorgeous, while the ad-libs and runs only amplify the authenticity, emotions, and investment into the record. Additionally, 🎙 Dem Jointz gives him a soulful backdrop that’s both modern yet throwback.

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79. Ledisi, “Anything for You”

💿 The Wild Card • 🏷 BMG Rights Management • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🏆 Grammy-nominated R&B singer 🎙 Ledisi has one of the most powerful voices in the game. For years, Young has been preserving the ‘sanctity’ of old-school, grown-folks R&B. Young ‘brings the heat’ on her soulful single, 🎵 “Anything for You” (💿 The Wild Card). 🎙 Rex Rideout produces alongside Young, with excellent results. No, the wheel is not reinvented on this throwback, adult contemporary R&B record, but the nostalgia of that gospel-tinged, highly soulful sound can’t be written off. Adding to the allure of course is none other than Ledisi, who sings like a beast. Always a powerhouse, she gives us a little bit of everything here. She exhibits vocal control, but also knows when to ‘let her rip.’ The nuances and the runs are absolutely everything. Furthermore, the songwriting is on-point. Here, she’s willing to do anything for you, best exemplified by the memorable, emotional chorus (“I’ll do anything for you / Heart and soul…”). Lovers of vintage, retro-sounding music, this is everything.

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78. Nas, “Ultra Black”

Ft. Hit-Boy

💿 King’s Disease • 🏷 Mass Appeal • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Ultra Black” finds 🎙 Nas exuberant in celebrating blackness. On this gem from 💿 King’s Disease, the rapper is backed by ‘old-school’ production (🎙 Hit-Boy), which always seems to suit him. Interestingly, for a man not known for hooks he drops one here and it’s moderately catchy. Nas cites specific notable blacks and things associated with ‘the culture.’ One truly clever lyric comes near the end of the second verse: “Hall & Oates, I can’t go for that / Motown Museum, Detroit, I’m ultra black.” Essentially, the rapper doesn’t want the ‘culturally appropriated’/whitewashed version – no disrespect intended – he wants the legit, black and proud version. Got it Nas – got it!

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77. Demi Lovato, “Anyone”

🎵 “Anyone” • 🏷 Island • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I tried to talk to my piano / I tried to talk to my guitar / Talk to my imagination / Confided into alcohol…”With her powerful, honest, incredibly vulnerable single, 🎵 “Anyone”, 🎙 Demi Lovato was part of one of the most moving moments at the 🏆 62^nd Annual Grammy Awards. “Anyone” keeps things simple from a musical perspective – Lovato singing, accompanied by piano. This stripped sound is perfect for such a personal song, putting more weight on the vocal and lyrics. Vocally, Lovato is as potent as ever. Her range and her sheer power are nothing short of awesome, as she exhibits spirit, soulfulness, and channels a cry for help musically. The other selling point beyond the vocals are the lyrics. Apparently, she searched everywhere for help – music, alcohol, God, you name it, feeling all alone. She makes this crystal clear on the chorus. Ultimately, this is an incredibly moving and powerful record.

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76. Lil Mosey, “Blueberry Faygo”

💿 Certified Hitmaker • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

There’s plenty of pros that make the relatively short 🎵 “Blueberry Faygo” by Pacific Northwest artist 🎙 Lil Mosey worth your while. One of the first reasons why “Blueberry Faygo” earns ‘bop status’ is thanks to the production by 🎙 Callan. It’s quite lush, further fueled by a 🎙 Johnny Gill sample (“My, My, My”). This is the perfect backdrop for Mosey to drop his agile, easygoing flow. No, he’s not the most ‘lyrical’ – “Three more hoes, pull up, I’m fucking shit” – but there’s a clear draw. While the lyrics are shallow, he manages to drop some memorable lines. The crème de la crème is the chorus, of course, especially when he “Poured up a four, now that blueberry Faygo.”

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75. Maluma & The Weeknd, “Hawái (Remix)”

🎵 “Hawái (Remix)” • 🏷 Sony Latin • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

Remixes don’t tend to eclipse the original. “Hawái,” which appears on the 2020 🎙 Maluma album, 💿 Papi Juancho, was sweet originally. That said, 🎵 “Hawái (Remix)” is quite strong and incredibly enjoyable. Maluma enlists 🎙 The Weekend, who brings the heat, complementing him incredibly well. From the start, the remix contrasts the original. The Weeknd draws first blood, dropping an intro and following up with the pre-chorus and chorus (performed in English). On the chorus, however, the Spanish returns, with Maluma joining in on the second half. Here, the artists reference their respective former flames supposed faux happiness via a vacation in Hawaii, intact with cute IG pics. From there, the sole verse arrives, courtesy of Maluma, reprised from the original. He discusses his ex-lover and these things she’s doing post-relationship, again, particularly via IG. He can see through the façade. Definitely entertaining.

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74. Pop Smoke, “Make it Rain”

Ft. Rowdy Rebel

💿 Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I make it rain on whoever / I make it rain, that Woo weather / Bitch, I’m a dog, a blue devil / I got the hoes like Hugh Hefner.” 🎙 Pop Smoke is on autopilot on 🎵 “Make it Rain”, the promo single from his posthumous debut album, 💿 Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon. What stands out about the late rapper is how he was a proponent of bring drill music to the mainstream. The banger “Make it Rain” reflects such. “Make it Rain” features banging production by 🎙 Yamaica – The synths are hellish, while the beat anchors things down superbly. Pop Smoke is tough AF. His rhymes are hard-nosed and unapologetic. “Look, ain’t no apology / These niggas doubted me, I keep a pole tucked,” he raps on the first verse, continuing, “Run up, catch a cold cut / Put his head on his shoulder.” Wow… 🎙 Rowdy Rebel guests on the second verse, recorded via phone from prison. Obviously, the quality isn’t great because of this, but Rowdy is certainly just that – rowdy. It’s really a shame that Smoke is gone. Clearly, he was an artist with ample potential. Besides the toughness he brings on “Make it Rain,” gotta love his distinct vocal tone.

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73. Moses Sumney, “Cut Me”

💿 Græ • 🏷 Jagjaguwar • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 40 ⬇

“Might not be healthy for me but seemingly I need / What cuts me, cuts me, cuts me, cut me, cut me, cut me.” 🎙 Moses Sumney ranks among the more distinct musicians, unafraid to try new things. Sumney is a blend of multiple styles, best placed under the umbrella of alternative. The superb 🎵 “Cut Me” appears on his 2020 album, 💿 Græ. “Cut Me” specifically could be described as an experimental soul song. The backdrop definitely hearkens back to the past, and Sumney has made clear his intentions to pay tribute to Aretha Franklin. Even though the sound is vintage to an extent, it’s not straightforward. There are plenty of surprises, even with horns, piano, and standard soul instrumentation. As interesting as the backdrop is, nothing tops Moses, who delivers an incredibly colorful, playful performance. Sure, he ascends into a gorgeous, ripe falsetto, idiomatic of R&B and soul, but he takes ample risks, creating something that’s actually much newer than it is so much nostalgic. The lyrics are poetic; thoughtfully and carefully penned. There is no shortage of highlights, whether it’s “That’s when I feel the most alive / Masochistic kisses are how I thrive,” “Endurance is the source of my pride,” or the personal “Guess I’m a true immigrant son / No vacancies, no vacations.”

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72. Omar Apollo, “Stayback”

💿 Apoliono • 🏷 Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

Gifted Mexican American musician 🎙 Omar Apollo captivates on the short, but sweet and incredibly soulful 🎵 “Stayback”, from his 2020 mini album, 💿 Apolonio. The recurring lyric, “I can’t help that you been on my mind, confirms the love-centric nature of the record. 2:40 is ample time for him provide us with a soulful hit, diving into R&B, alternative R&B, and neo-soul. Amongst the cool sounds are distorted guitar, a rad guitar solo, and a robust bass line. The groove is simple but incredibly effective, anchoring the record down superbly. Vocally, Omar sounds utterly sublime; he excels in this vibe, without question. His falsetto is ripe, while his playful delivery is incredibly alluring. As far as the songwriting, the catchy chorus is definitely the centerpiece: “You know I been feeling you since way back / But I couldn’t even make the words to say that, say that /…But you could never love me so stay back, stay back.” He remembers a relationship from the past but also seeks to move past it, having his former lover “stay back.” Essentially, his love issues/pain/plight are our listening pleasure.

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71. Jack Harlow, “Tyler Herro”

🎵 “Tyler Herro” • 🏷 Generation Now / Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I brought a gang to the party with me / Five white boys, but they not NSYNC.” 🎙 Jack Harlow is ‘instant offense’… at least when it comes to rap. 2020 saw the rapper’s star rise exponentially, and for good reason. Keeping his game in tip-top shape, Harlow dropped an instant hit, 🎵 “Tyler Herro”, named after Kentucky Wildcat standout and NBA baller, 🏀 Tyler Herro. “Tyler Herro” may be short (not the player, who is 6’5”), but it’s definitely a sweet banger from Jack. “My homeboy Tyler, he play in South Beach,” Harlow asserts on the verse, continuing, “He told me this summer he gon’ fix my jumper.” Herro would definitely be the one to do so given his skills from beyond the arc. Additionally, Harlow shouts out producer Boi-1da, who, alongside a list of producers, stitches up the track nicely. #BANGER

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70. Ariana Grande, “Positions”

💿 Positions • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Positions” was the sole single issued in advance of 💿 Positions, the surprise 2020 studio album by 🏆 Grammy winner 🎙 Ariana Grande. While some folks were mixed to some extent, it’s a cool, sensual jam overall. “Positions” checks off many of the expected boxes: fiery vocals, sound production (🎙 Tommy Brown, 🎙 Mr. Franks, and 🎙 London on da Track) balancing R&B and pop, and of course, sexy songwriting. That said, “Positions” thrives more on vibe than being a lyrical/songwriting tour de force. The chorus is the catchiest, most recognizable section of the song. The verses are relatively short and lack transcendence. That said, they’re a vibe, while the pre-chorus and that standout chorus shine brightest.

69. Teyana Taylor, “We Got Love”

Ft. Ms. Lauryn Hill

💿 The Album • 🏷 Def Jam • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

The crown jewel of 💿 The Album by 🎙 Teyana Taylor is 🎵 “We Got Love”, featuring 🎙 Ms. Lauryn Hill. “We got love, love, love / You better believe it.” The biggest takeaway from “We Got Love” is how reflective and thankful the record is. Taylor counts her many blessings, none of which are about clout or drip of any sort. She focuses on family, self-love, and positive, uplifting vibes. Hill doesn’t have a gargantuan role on “We Got Love,” but her interlude adds some spice to this love-centric, socially conscious, and reflective number (“You keep your focus / You keep your sense of love / And you keep your sense of purpose…”). Ultimately, “We Got Love” is great way to conclude a great album, as well as one of the best songs of 2020.

68. The Neighbourhood, “Cherry Flavoured”

💿 Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

Though a bit quirky, 🎙 Jesse Rutherford and 🎙 The Neighbourhood deliver quite the alluring, charming, vibe-laden record with 🎵 “Cherry Flavoured”, the sixth track from the band’s fourth studio album, 💿 Chip Chrome & The Mono-Tones. With The Neighbourhood songs, you’ve got to appreciate that aesthetic and vibe are quite important. That’s the case here on “Cherry Flavoured,” where we have a detuned pad and acoustic rhythm guitars that help establish a ‘druggy’ sound. That druggy sound appears to be by design as ‘highness’ is mentioned throughout the record. We get the first taste of it on the very brief first verse when Jesse sings, “Sweet and sour motivation / Wish I could keep concentration.” Of course, he doesn’t as the chorus addresses his unhealthy high… That said, the refrain, a distinct section that follows the post chorus speaks of a more positive high. It seems as if Rutherford and company could be referencing fans and those who love them as opposed to potentially destructive drugs. An outro, an about face, concludes this intriguing, unique record.

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67. The Chicks, “March March”

💿 Gaslighter • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“March, march to my own drum / Hey, hey, I’m an army of one…” “March March” marks one of the best moments from 💿 Gaslighter, the first album by 🎙 The Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks) in 14 years. Beyond the aforementioned simplistic yet telling chorus, the lyrics on the verses of “March March” definitely speak volumes. “Brenda’s packin’ heat ‘cause she don’t like Mondays,” references the infamous 1979 school shooter, Brenda Spencer. The first verse references Emma Gonzalez, a Parkland survivor. On the second verse, 🎙 Natalie Maines criticizes conservative stances regarding abortion, climate change, and is skeptical of Trump’s Helsinki summit with Putin. From a production standpoint, Jack Antonoff works his magic, giving us a dark, minimalist, contemporary country joint unlike anything else The Chicks have released. Ample cues – violin in particular – solidify its country status, yet it feels like a fresh, modern take. Woke lyricism and the spirit of protest carry the most weight, but the sound is ripe as well.

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66. Alicia Keys, “Good Job”

💿 Alicia • 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“You’re the engine that makes all things go / And you’re always in disguise, my hero / I see your light in the dark / Smile in my face when we all know it’s hard.” There are lots to like about 🎵 “Good Job”, the fourth single from 🎙 Alicia Keys’ 2020 album, 💿 Alicia. First and foremost, it is incredibly thoughtful, giving thanks to everyone affected and helping to combat the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. Keys is being encouraging and uplifting, providing that positive reinforcement that educators seek to give their students. “Good job, you’re doin’ a good job, a good job,” she sings on the chorus, continuing, “Don’t get too down / The world needs you now / Know that you matter, matter, yeah.” Essentially, lyrically, she says all of the right things. Also, as she sings, she infuses her soul into it, given it that next level of authenticity. While the production eschews a bunch of bells and whistles, it suits the tone of this record.

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65. Jonas Brothers, “What a Man Gotta Do”

🎵 “What a Man Gotta Do” • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 30 ⬇

🎙 Jonas Brothers (🎙 Nick, 🎙 Joe, and 🎙 Kevin) remained on track in 2020 with their infectious 2020 B-O-P, 🎵 “What a Man Gotta Do”. “What a Man Gotta Do” commences with intense, rhythmic guitar, setting the assertive tone of record. This is a nice lead-in and accompanying backdrop for Nick’s commanding lead vocals. On both of the verses, he gives us a nice blend of chest vocals, as well as a dash of falsetto. Joe gets his vocal opportunities on the chorus, clearly the centerpiece, best described as incredibly catchy and chocked-full of attitude and energy. As the song progresses, it only grows more soulful. When both Nick and Joe sing together it’s pretty sweet. Of course, they owe plenty of love to their co-writers (🎙 Dave Stewart, 🎙 Jess Agombar, and 🎙 Ryan Tedder), as well as producers (Stewart and Tedder) for conceiving such a fun, energetic, and irresistible piece of pop music. Hate on the bros if you want, but you won’t be able to get “What a Man Gotta Do” unstuck out of your head.

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64. Omar Apollo, “Bi Fren”

💿 Apoliono • 🏷 Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Bi Fren” marks one of the most captivating moments on 💿 Apolonio, the 2020 mini album by gifted Mexican American musician, 🎙 Omar Apollo. Apollo’s style is quite eclectic (R&B, pop, rock, Latin), best characterized under the alternative umbrella. “Bi Fren” drips in swagger. Also, it raises speculation regarding the musician’s sexuality, which he doesn’t really address (nor does he have to). Regardless, Omar had a clear connection with this guy, cool ‘mumble’ approach to performing or not. On the second verse, he asserts, “I still like him, I still like him / I used to drive around your block without no license / Separate you and your bitch, I’m not no hypen /… He talking ‘bout hi friend, I’m talkin’ bout ‘bi’ friend.” It’s definitely intriguing – incredibly entertaining. That groove is 🔥.

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63. The Kid LAROI, “GO”

Ft. Juice WRLD

💿 FCK LOVE* (SAVAGE) • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Go” is definitely a rad song by 🎙 The Kid LAROI (Charlton Howard), who doesn’t depict childish happenings in the least. The teen focuses on the issues that plague many a man’s brain – girls on the 💿 F*CK LOVE (SAVAGE) standout. “You fuck up my brain, you don’t know no better, yeah / Wish I knew you better, shit, but I don’t know no better,” he raps melodically on the first verse. He’s quite confident – filled with swagger from the start. His delivery is syrupy, which is quite popular in modern hip-hop. Prior to dropping the first verse, we get a pretty catchy chorus as well. Setting him up for success is sleek production (electric guitar, awesome beat) by 🎙 24Degrees, 🎙 Omer Fedi, 🎙 Nick Mira, and 🎙 Tito. This same backdrop also complements the late, great 🎙 Juice WRLD, who delivers the goods on second verse both complementing and contrasting his mentee. They join forces on the final chorus of this once-in-a-lifetime, surefire gem.

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62. Childish Gambino, “53.49”

💿 3.15.20 • 🏷 mcDJ Recording / RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 34 ⬇

The jubilant 🎵 “53.49” closes out 💿 3.15.20, the adventurous fourth studio album (dominated by time-stamped song titles) by 🏆 Grammy-winning musician 🎙 Child Gambino (Donald Glover). On this splendid joint, Glover is aggressive AF – turned up from the onset as he raps intensely on the verses (“I’m just tryna put the spirt in your Yeezy Boosts / Get your cup, it runneth over once I got the juice”). Then, he contrasts, singing absolutely gorgeously on the chorus (“There is love in every moment / Under the sun, boy / I did what I wanted to…”). On the first chorus he showcases restraint, while the second finds him digging in, flaunting that otherworldly grit and ripe falsetto. Ultimately, he speaks about how great his life is. “53.49” = Awesomeness exemplified.

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61. The 1975, “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America”

💿 Notes on a Conditional Form • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I’m in love with Jesus Christ / He’s so nice.” On 🎵 “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America”, a highlight from 💿 Notes on a Conditional Form, atheist/secular humanist front man 🎙 Matthew Healy and 🎙 The 1975 tackle faith and sexuality. It’s among the deepest songs featured on 🎧 100 BEST SONGS OF 2020.Following the ‘Christian affirming opening lyric, the band highlights the clash between faith and sexuality (“I’m in love with a boy I know / But that’s a feeling I can never show”) Uncredited featured guest 🎙 Phoebe Bridgers has her own moment where sexuality comes to the forefront (“I’m in love with the girl next door / Her name’s Claire / Nice when she comes ‘round to call / Then masturbate the second she’s not there”). Again, “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” intentionally highlights trying to balance of two opposing forces. You can argue that Healy desires faith that he doesn’t possess, while simultaneously capturing the plight of the gay Christian who is essentially a walking contradiction. The song has a lot to unpack, but it’s definitely a worthwhile listen and discussion piece.

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60. Troye Sivan, “Rager Teenager!”

💿 In a Dream [EP] • 🏷 Capitol • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Rager teenager!” is arguably the crowning achievement from 💿 In a Dream (EP), the 2020 EP by South African/Australian pop sensation 🎙 Troye Sivan. 🎙 OZGO (Oscar Görres) spoils us with his production skills with lovely warm pads, big, pummeling drums, and a great harmonic progression. Troye’s sound is ‘liberated’ throughout, particularly the pre-chorus and chorus. His vocals are top-notch, sounding incredibly masculine, expressive, and sexy simultaneously. The pre-chorus section might be the best. It’s more dynamic than the chorus, and establishes the ‘liberated’ sound, intact with a dose of profanity (“I just wanna go wild / I just wanna fuck shit up and just ride / In your car tonight / In your bed tonight”). The pre-chorus is varied each time, while the chorus remains the same each time with no variation. Calmer, it’s potent as well: “Hey, my lil’ rager teenager / Tryna figure it out…”. Besides those two sections, the instrumental outro is a nice touch. Great singing, great writing, and great production makes “Rager Teenager!” a gem.

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59. Lil Uzi Vert, “Lo Mein”

💿 Eternal Awake • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 43 ⬇

“Yeah, chopstick came with a large lo mein / Extra clip in it, nigga, I ain’t got no aim / Balmain pocket filled with fresh romaine / And I stay with the cash like a XO chain.” 🎵 “Lo Mein” is not really about lo mein, of course. 🏆 Grammy-nominated rapper 🎙 Lil Uzi Vert is potent as hell on the record, which ranks among the crème de la crème of 💿 Eternal Atake. “Lo Mein” kicks off with the aforementioned chorus, which begins enigmatically before the knocking backdrop is fully realized. The chopstick referenced is a gun, if you couldn’t quite decipher the lingo. Furthermore, Balmain is a lux brand. Anyways, besides the sick chorus, the post-chorus is pretty rad, particularly the dripped-out ending end where Lil Uzi asserts, “When it come to the drip, not in front of me / Wearin’ Balenciaga on my jacket, my shirt / And my pants, and my socks, and my undies.”

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58. The Scotts, “The Scotts”

🎵 “The Scotts” • 🏷 Epic / Cactus Jack / Wicked Awesome • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 20 ⬇

There’s nothing sexier than a superstar collaboration, right? Right. With 🎵 “The Scotts”, the world was introduced to 🎙 The Scotts, a collaboration between 🎙 Travis Scott and 🎙 Kid Cudi. Both rappers are intriguing in their own right, so, together, they must be unstoppable, right? It didn’t top the Billboard Hot 100 📉 for nothing. Vibe is the biggest selling point, with producers 🎙 Take A Daytrip, 🎙 Dot Da Genius, and 🎙 Plain Pat establishing that vibe clearly. Travis Scott’s ad-libs are as ripe as ever, while Kid Cudi’s hums are prevalent. When it comes to assertiveness when rapping, Cudi has more bite. The contrast to Travis is pretty cool. Travis is more chill. Neither raps particularly long, and “The Scotts” clocks in under three minutes. ‘Vibe’ comes into play even more towards the end, where the producers shine brightest with a colorful instrumental outro. Ultimately, “The Scotts” is definitely intriguing.

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57. Bad Bunny & Sech, “Ignorantes”

💿 YHLQMDLG • 🏷 Rimas Entertainment • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 26 ⬇

“Ignorantes” (💿 YHLQMDLG or Yo Hago Lo Que Me De La Gana), a collaboration by Puerto Rican Latin trap artist 🎙 Bad Bunny (Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio) and Panamanian singer 🎙 Sech, is a bop for numerous reasons. First, the production is quite impressive by 🎙 Dimelo Flow and 🎙 Soltedo Beats. The beat packs a fair amount of punch, while the keyboards and synths are kinder and gentler in sound. “Ignorantes” encompasses matters of the heart, specifically heartbreak and a failed relationship. Bad Bunny and Sech capture and convey their feelings regarding the ended relationship well. Naturally, as they reminisce, matters of the bedroom come into play, evidenced on the chorus performed by Bad Bunny: “Normal, I know that sometimes peleamo [we fight] / But how delicious when chingamo [fucking] / And I don’t know why we left / If you love me and I love you.” Sech also recollects intimacy on the first verse, while on the bridge, regrets sleeping with her, but knows the sex was satisfying. Bad Bunny has had a hell of year and “Ignorantes” is part of the reason why.

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56. Chloe x Halle, “Busy Boy”

💿 Ungodly Hour • 🏷 Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎙 Chloe x Halle show incredible versatility on their fun, well-rounded sophomore album, 💿 Ungodly Hour. The 🏆 Grammy-nominated R&B sister duo has ample talent at their disposal. Throughout Ungodly Hour, they show off their incredible versatility including those celestial vocal harmonies. Among the best songs from Ungodly Hour is 🎵 “Busy Boy.” “It’s four o’clock / You sendin’ me too many pictures of your… (Oh).” Damn, that’s those filthy, horn-dog boys! The production by 🎙 NASRI and 🎙 Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman is fresh, yet also hearkens back to, well, contemporary R&B of old. Chloe x Halle really bring the attitude and sassiness, without having to force things in the least. The harmonies are sweet, the chorus infectious, and the vibe – 🔥 AF!

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55. Sam Smith, “Diamonds”

💿 Love Goes • 🏷 Capitol • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“My diamonds leave with you / You’re never gonna hear my heart break / Never gonna move in dark ways…” 🏆 Academy Award and Grammy-winning nonbinary musician 🎙 Sam Smith returned in 2020 with their third studio album, 💿 Love Goes. Among the best songs from Love Goes was 🎵 “Diamonds”, with lovely vocals by Smith leading the charge. Smith is supported by sleek production work – not overdone or overproduced. Matters of the heart rule as Sam’s ex- was more about material things where Sam was more relationship oriented. Even with lost love, “Diamonds” is definitely spirited as opposed to downtrodden. Beginning with the first chorus, we’re treated to a danceable groove. Furthermore, the catchy chorus instantly gets stuck in your head. On the second verse, we get more melodic variations, while Smith shows impeccable musicianship on the bridge, singing in an undertone before rebuilding the intensity heading into the final chorus. The crème de la crème of Love Goes.

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54. PARTYNEXTDOOR, “Savage Anthem”

💿 PARTYMOBILE • 🏷 OVO Sound / Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 38 ⬇

“Don’t hold your breath / Don’t wait on my love / Don’t hold your breath / Don’t wait on my love.” 🎵 “Savage Anthem” appears as the six-minute penultimate cut from 💿 PARTYMOBILE, the 2020 studio album by Canadian R&B artist 🎙 PARTYNEXTDOOR. “Savage Anthem” features a slow pace, typical of the Canadian brand of R&B. Furthermore, the production is incredibly lush, thanks to the skills of 🎙 Andrew Cedar and 🎙 Noah “40” Shebib. When PND opts for longer melodic lines, he sounds incredibly expressive and nuanced. The thing is, he doesn’t limit himself to more legato melodic lines. He contrasts with more hip-hop oriented lines on the verses confirming the ‘savage’ element of this “Savage Anthem.” A prime example is the third verse (“Tucked you, then went to the strip club / VIP, I got my dick sucked / Came back to you and I kissed ya /That led to fucking on the tour bus…”). Savage! The gorgeous outro by the choir does provide some atoning grace to PARTY’s sketchy, sexed-up behavior.

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53. The 1975, “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)”

💿 Notes on a Conditional Form • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 25 ⬇

🎵 “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)” marked that seventh single that 🎙 The 1975 released ahead of 💿 Notes on a Conditional Form. “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)” is truly accomplished in just about every facet. Instrumentally, it serves up some truly decadent ear candy. Styled in the 80s vain, it’s quite sleek with its horns and keyboards, complementing the guitars. One of the brightest spots comes courtesy of an electrifying saxophone solo 🎷. Vocally, 🎙 Matthew Healy is a compelling front man, doing a fabulous job of conveying the plight of online dating…we think: “I see her online, all the time / I’m trying not to stare down there.” Healy is particularly intrigued by her looks and the sexual potential more than an emotional connection. On the second verse, he freakily adds, “I’ve been wearing nothing every time I call you / And I’m starting to feel weird about it…” The chorus unsurprisingly is the centerpiece. “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)” is definitely fun and memorable, if a wee bit long running north of five minutes.

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52. Halsey, “You should be sad”

💿 Manic • 🏷 Capitol • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 27 ⬇

“Oh, I feel so sorry, I feel so sad / I tried to help you, it just made you mad / And I had no warning about who you are / I’m just glad I made it out without breaking down…” Woo! There is no shortage of standouts on 💿 Manic is the best album by 🏆 Grammy-nominated alt-pop musician, 🎙 Halsey. “You should be sad” ranks among the best songs off the album as well as one of the best of 2020. Halsey enlists one of pop’s most reliable and successful fixtures, 🎙 Greg Kurstin, to construct the background, resulting in pop with a dash of country influence. The biggest takeaway is how superbly she plays the ‘woman scorned’ role – she’s mad as hell. “No, you’re not half the man you think that you are / And you can’t fill the hole inside of you with money, drugs, and cars,” she asserts on the pre-chorus, continuing, “I’m so glad I never ever had a baby with you / ‘Cause you can’t love nothing unless there’s something in it for you.” Oh snap! The chorus, excerpted at the top, further confirms how she feels post-relationship.

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51. Perfume Genius, “Jason”

💿 Set My Heart on Fire Immediately • 🏷 Matador • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“Jason undressed me / Lying on his sheets / He did not do the same / Even his boots were on…” 🎵 “Jason,” a highlight from the superb, 2020 🎙 Perfume Genius (Mike Hadreas) album, 💿 Set My Heart on Fire Immediately, explores sexuality. “Jason” details a one-night stand when Hadreas was 23. The ‘hook-up’ occurred with a straight guy (perhaps questioning 🏳️‍🌈) and apparently, involves some nurturing from Mike. “He was afraid / Tears streaming down his face,” he sings on the second verse, adding on the third, “I was proud to seem / Warm and mothering / Just for a night.” Musically, the biggest triumph is Hadreas’ falsetto – simply amazing. From a sexual perspective, it’s awesome to hear a scenario where a man still seems to be in the infancy stages of accepting and understanding his sexuality.

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50. Chris Stapleton, “Starting Over”

💿 Starting Over • 🏷 Mercury • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Starting Over” commences 💿 Starting Over on a high note. This gem is written by 🎙 Chris Stapleton and 🎙 Mike Henderson. Early on, “Staring Over” keeps things pretty simple, featuring rhythmic guitar accompaniment and a light, though rhythmic snare drum groove. Set in a major key, the optimism is at an all-time high. As always, Stapleton delivers commanding, expressive vocals, bringing ample assertiveness to the table. Even with the grit behind his pipes, the melodic lines throughout are quite tuneful. The songwriting is well-rounded, focusing on taking risks and taking the plunge even amidst uncertainty. The memorable chorus serves as the centerpiece: “Let’s take our chances and roll the dice / I can be your lucky penny; you can be my four-leaf cover /Starting over.” Highlighting the production once more, eventually, the backdrop fills out. Stapleton adds a robust bass line, organ, and fuller drums. An instrumental interlude with a different harmonic progression is worth highlighting. “Starting Over” is a massive success.

49. Conan Gray, “Heather”

💿 Kid Krow • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

One of the best songs from 💿 Kid Krow, the debut album by 🎙 Conan Gray is 🎵 “Heather.” On “Heather,” Gray is wrongfully mad at Heather. Why? The person he likes doesn’t like him, but likes Heather, so therefore, he dislikes Heather (“But how could I hate her? She’s such an angel / But then again, kinda wish she were dead…”). It’s totally illogical mind you but very relatable, particularly the chorus. On the chorus, he sings, “Why would you ever kiss me? / I’m not even half as pretty / You gave her your sweater, it’s just polyester / But you like her better /(I wish I were Heather).”

48. Lady Gaga & BLACKPINK, “Sour Candy”

💿 Chromatica • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I’m sour candy / So sweet, then I get a little angry, yeah /Sour candy, yeah, yeah, yeah…” Standout 🎵 “Sour Candy” arrives courtesy of 🎙 Lady Gaga, assisted by South Korean girl group, 🎙 BLACKPINK. “Sour Candy” appears on 💿 Chromatica, the sixth studio album by the 🏆 Academy- and Grammy award winning musician. “I’m hard on the outside / But if you give me the time / Then I could make time for your love / I’m hard on the outside / But if you see inside, inside, inside…” “Sour Candy” yields positive results – nothing sour in the least! Why is it such a success? It’s rich in sweetness given the outlandish nature and artistry of Gaga, the personality exhibited by BLACKPINK, the catchy chorus, and superb production courtesy of 🎙 BloodPop® and 🎙 BURNS. Furthermore, the lyrics are quite playful, with some sexual innuendo in play, but nothing too crazy or too far to the left. Ultimately, “Sour Candy” is incredibly fun.

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47. John Legend, “Conversations in the Dark”

💿 Bigger Love • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 18 ⬇

🏆 Grammy-winning R&B musician 🎙 John Legend shines on 🎵 “Conversations in the Dark”, the crème de la crème on his 2020 studio album, 💿 Bigger Love. “Conversations in the Dark” is a sound blend of pop and adult contemporary R&B. The crowning achievement of the record are those confident, robust, and incredibly soulful, baritone vocals. Legend sounds as distinct as ever, delivering an expressive, nuanced, and balanced performance. Early on, he exhibits more restraint. As the song progresses and percolates, he offers more oomph and grit. Each chorus adds more of that ‘Legendary’ bite, particularly as he incorporates those ripe, ad-libs. Beyond the vocals, the theme is relatable – everlasting, unbreakable love. He sings about the depth of love throughout the verses, overtly confirming it on the catchy, memorable chorus. Another stellar moment comes on the bridge section, which pulls back slightly, before rebuilding the intensity. All in all, Legend adds another gem to his illustrious music collections with “Conversations in the Dark,” not to mention contributing one of the year’s very best songs.

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46. Twenty One Pilots, “Level of Concern”

🎵 “Level of Concern” • 🏷 Fueled by Ramen • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 13 ⬇

“Wonderin’ would you be my little quarantine? / Or is this the way it ends?” 🎙 Twenty One Pilots released an instant hit with their hella catchy, groovy quarantine anthem, 🎵 “Level of Concern”. “Level of Concern” is one of the musical crown jewels born out of the coronavirus pandemic. 🎙 Tyler Joseph delivers an honest vocal performance, sharing his thoughts on the state of the world and his anxiety. The chorus speaks directly to anxiety, discomfort, and uncertainty: “‘Cause I told you my level of concern / But you walked by like you never heard / And you could bring down my level of concern / Just need you to tell me you’re alright / Tell me we’re okay.” Joseph is accompanied by one of the most danceable, funky backdrops of his career, driven by the drum groove (🎙 Josh Dun), rhythmic guitar, and keyboards. Ultimately, Twenty One Pilots are as concerned as anyone else about COVID-19 and its effects on everyday life, but “Level of Concern” is a truly outstanding means to convey it.

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45. Rina Sawayama, “STFU”

💿 SAWAYAMA • 🏷 Dirty Hit • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“How come you don’t expect me / To get mad when I’m angry? / … How come you don’t respect me? / Expecting fantasies to be my reality / Why don’t you just sit down and…” More folks need to be buzzing about 🎙 Rina Sawayama – she’s absolutely amazing! Her debut album, 💿 SAWAYAMA received universal critical acclaim. The LGBTQ+ musician 🏳️‍🌈 truly is a force to be reckoned with, something the showcases to the nth degree on “STFU” (aka “shut the fuck up”) the third track from SAWAYAMA. Sawayama dips her toes into metal 🤘on “STFU.” No, she doesn’t wail like a metal singer, but she brings attitude and the heat over an aggressive, guitar-driven backdrop. Who exactly she tell to shut the fuck up? Haters, judgmental folks, homophobes, etc. She’s over the BS essentially: “Shut the fuck up (Shh) / Have you ever thought about taping your big mouth shut?”

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44. Alicia Keys, “Underdog”

💿 Alicia • 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 33 ⬇

🎵 “Underdog”, a standout single from 💿 Alicia, stylistically encompasses pop, adult contemporary R&B, and singer/songwriter. Rather than embracing a piano backdrop, 🏆 Grammy-winner 🎙 Alicia Keys is accompanied by a rhythmic acoustic guitar backdrop on this 🎙 Ed Sheeran co-write. Emphasis should be placed on the singer/songwriter vibes lyrically. Keys and her co-writers have a socially conscious mindset, best exemplified on the song’s centerpiece, the chorus: “So, I sing a song for the hustlers trading at the bus stop / Single mothers waiting on a check to come / Young teachers, student doctors /…This goes out to the underdog.” Of course, Alicia Keys sets up the underdog on both of the verses superbly. The big takeaway is the end of both verses, where she suggests, “One conversation, a simple moment / The things that change us if we notice / When we look up sometimes.” The theme of “Underdog” latches from the onset. She sings this record well, providing some flashy ad-libs towards the end.

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43. Demi Lovato, “I Love Me”

🎵 “I Love Me” • 🏷 Island • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 24 ⬇

On 🎵 “I Love Me”, 🏆 Grammy-nominated pop artist 🎙 Demi Lovato moves towards a much better place, committed to loving herself. “I Love Me” is a strong pop record that features sleek, energetic production work, courtesy of 🎙 Oak, 🎙 Keith Sorrells, and 🎙 Alex Nice. Stylistically, it encompasses elements of electronic music and R&B, while being idiomatic of pop. Lovato’s vocals are the biggest selling point, mixing playful, feisty, profane moments with moments where she shoots straight bullets with her piercing, upper register ad-libs. The biggest takeaway is empowerment. “‘Cause I’m a black belt when I’m beating up on myself / But I’m an expert at giving love to somebody else,” she sings on the pre-chorus, continuing, “I, me, myself, and I don’t see eye to eye / Me, myself and I.” That’s such a potent, incredibly relatable point. On the chorus, she expounds further, as she works beyond being “my own worst critic” and towards “…When I love me is enough.” Ultimately, Lovato slays on “I Love Me,” keeping it 💯, balancing a relatable message and an infectious pop gem.

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42. The Weeknd, “After Hours”

After Hours • Republic • 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “After Hours” (💿 After Hours) is a throwback for 🎙 The Weekend; it sounds like his ultra-moody music of the past. It’s long (north of six-minutes), but the vibe, vocal performance, and the production compensate. The production (🎙 Illangelo, 🎙 Jason “DaHeala” Quenneville, and 🎙 Mario Winans) is satisfying to the nth degree: dark and moody (in a minor key) with cutting-edge synths and an infectious groove. Of course, it’s that potent falsetto by The Weekend atop the backdrop that seals the deal. Beyond the sound and vocals, the theme encompassing matters of the heart amplifies excellence. He thrives on heartbreak. The crowning achievement is the chorus. Abel Tesfaye is in his zone here, and that’s always a winning formula.

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41. The Strokes, “The Adults are Talking”

💿 The New Abnormal 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 23 ⬇

“They will blame us, crucify and shame us / We can’t help it if we are a problem / We are tryin’ hard to get your attention / I’m climbin’ up your wall.” 🎵 “The Adults Are Talking” is the quick, energetic, and potent opener from 💿 The New Abnormal, the long-awaited, sixth studio album by 🎙 The Strokes. The indie-rock record possesses a fun, danceable sensibility. 🎙 Julian Casablancas gives a muted, even-keel vocal performance for the most part, ascending into a sweet falsetto within the final two minutes. Don’t let this deceive about its MAD implications. The performance makes sense, given the messaging – the inability for a subordinate’s voice to be heard. Besides the social and political aspects of “The Adults Are Talking,” there are also references to a relationship, which is pretty intriguing in its own right.

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40. 21 Savage & Metro Boomin, “Runnin”

💿 Savage Mode II • 🏷 Epic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “Runnin,” the first full-length track from 💿 Savage Mode II, the collaborative album by 🎙 21 Savage and 🎙 Metro Boomin, is nothing short of epic – 🚫🎓! The production by Metro goes hard, as does 21’s bars. 🎙 Diana Ross contributes to the epic sound, thanks to the sample of her 1976 classic, “I Thought It Took a Little Time (But Today I Fell in Love)”. As classy as Ross sounds on the sampled intro, 21 Savage truly is in ‘savage mode,’ dropping numerous lit, unapologetic one-liners. While there’s nothing humorous per se, it’s hard not to chuckle when he asserts, “I was at the Met Gala with my shooter (on God).” The best part of the record is the chorus, which is infectious AF – “Runnin’, runnin’, runnin’, runnin’ / Runnin’, runnin’, I leave all my cars…”

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39. Billie Eilish, “No Time to Die”

🎵 “No Time to Die” • 🏷 Darkroom / Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 37 ⬇

After dominating the 🏆 Grammys, and following a high-profile Academy Awards in memoriam performance, 🎙 Billie Eilish returned with 🎵 “No Time to Die”, which appears in the 007 film, 🎥 No Time to Die. “No Time to Die” is written by Eilish and 🎙 FINNEAS, who also produces alongside 🎙 Stephen Lipson. The sound balances that signature Eilish sound we’ve come to love – more understated, yet always chilling and haunting – and the dramatic, dark nature of the music appearing in the James Bond films. For most of the song, the listener is mesmerized by the soft yet potent nature of her instrument, with ample lyrical expressiveness. But even the oft-understated teen rises to the occasion, pushing her voice and singing dynamically to match the soaring nature of the music on the chorus. “No Time to Die” is a well-written, well-performed, truly gorgeous ballad that plays to her strengths.

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38. Lady Gaga, “Stupid Love”

💿 Chromatica • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎙 Lady Gaga brings fun and energy on “Stupid Love”, the promo single from Chromatica. “Stupid Love” served as the first indication that Gaga was putting her dance-pop shoes back on – a good look. Vocally, she’s assertive, showing off her powerful pipes through driving, ‘in your face’ production – synths, pummeling drums – and quick tempo. Her energy shines brightest on the simple, but potent chorus: “I want your stupid love, love / (Oh-oh-oh…).” Love centric, on the verses, Gaga makes it clear she’s found ‘a mighty love,’ so much so that on the second verse she asks, “Could this love protect me from the pain? / I would battle for you (Even if I break in two).” #Dedication. That said, she “freaks out” on the refrain, prior to the pre-chorus where “All [she] ever wanted was love.” Fair enough! “Stupid Love” is actually pretty ‘intelligent,’ all in all.

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37. BLACKPINK, “Bet You Wanna”

Ft. Cardi B

💿 THE ALBUM • 🏷 YG Entertainment / Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“Something ‘bout me’s taking you higher (Hey, hey) / And you ain’t ever gonna come down (You ain’t ever, you ain’t ever)…” 🎵 “Bet You Wanna,” arguably, is the song to beat on 💿 THE ALBUM, the 2020 album by K-Pop girl group 🎙 BLACKPINK. “Bet You Wanna” features a ‘clean’ rap verse by 🏆 Grammy-winner 🎙 Cardi B. Performed exclusively in English, “Bet You Wanna” is a bop from the opening tip. The production is sleek, anchored by beat that packs a mighty punch. Furthermore, the songwriting is catchy – particularly the chorus – while the vocals by BLACKPINK #winning.

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36. Mariah Carey, “Save the Day”

Ft. Ms. Lauryn Hill

💿 The Rarities • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

Celebrating 30 years in the game, 🎙 Mariah Carey dropped 💿 The Rarities in October 2020. We got a ‘brand-new’ gem out of the mix via 🎵 “Save the Day”, which features 🎙 Ms. Lauryn Hill via sampling – “Killing Me Softly” (Fugees). Elements of the remake of the iconic classic shine through “Save the Day,” allowing the record to hearken back to Carey’s own heyday, the 90s. Carey, sounds incredibly strong throughout. There has been some criticism of the abilities of her voice as she gets older and past her lucrative prime, but she’s quite potent here. Furthermore, this recording doesn’t play it conservative – we get the full range of Carey from the lows to those soaring, dynamic highs. “Save the Day” is pretty sweet!

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35. Meek Mill, “Otherside of America”

🎵 “Otherside of America” • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 9 ⬇

“I’ve been tryna run from these caskets / All this pain built in me, nigga…” 🏆 Grammy-nominated rapper 🎙 Meek Mill gets socially conscious on the ferocious 🎵 “Otherside of America”. The record commences with a sample from an infamous Donald Trump speech, painting a damning picture about urban black life: “58% of your youth is unemployed. What the hell do you have to lose?” From there, Meek ‘goes TF in’ over a banging 🎙 SHROOM and 🎙 Butter Beats backdrop. Set in a minor key, the beat is crazy, and the orchestral cues add dramatic flair and intensity. Mill uses the first verse to share his life story – an arduous, dangerous childhood, and eventually experiencing his come up through rap. Similarly, on the second, he reflects on rough-and-tumble times, including troubles faced, while also acknowledging his success story. The chorus that paints a portrait of the experience some blacks face that are far too often taken for granted, and that those who have privilege never face nor understand. All in all, Meek Mill slaughters, painting an excellent, unsettling portrait of “the other side of America.”

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34. Kehlani, “Toxic”

💿 It Was Good Until It Wasn’t • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 19 ⬇

“And that damn Don Julio made me a fool for you…” 🏆 Grammy-nominated R&B singer 🎙 Kehlani has been on a musical tear in 2020. Perhaps her best moment from her sophomore album, 💿 It Was Good Until It Wasn’t, was the single, 🎵 “Toxic”. On “Toxic,” Kehlani knows this guy is bad news, even as she participates in his ‘toxic’ sexual endeavors. The lush record, set in a minor key, is produced by 🎙 G.ry and 🎙 K.Beazy, who provide ‘Lani with a moody backdrop that perfectly supports the theme of the record – matters of the heart. “All of this love is toxic / … All these kisses and hugs is knock shit / You a damn drug, you’re toxic.” Yep, look no further than the chorus for how Kehlani is affected by love – it definitely sums it up. The verses provide additional ‘details, particularly the second verse (“Surfin’ on your face while you eat that / Tryna make a bad bitch behave, no”). Adding to the colorful nature of “Toxic” are familiar, uncredited vocals (🎙 Ty Dolla $ign). Ultimately, “Toxic” is enjoyable thanks to a well-rounded vocal performance, sound production, and alluring songwriting.

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33. Mickey Guyton, “Black Like Me”

💿 Bridges • 🏷 Capitol Nashville • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“Broke my heart on the playground, mm / When they said I was different…” In 2020, a number of black musicians have used their platform to celebrate blackness and fight for racial equality. 🎙 Mickey Guyton is a black female in a genre that lacks much black representation – country music. She drops an incredible country single, 🎵 “Black Like Me” (💿 Bridges), that exhibits pride for being black and provides brilliant commentary on race. Theme and lyrics serve as the crowning achievement of of “Black Like Me.” Mickey reflects on the past and moves on to the present, as an adult. She laments inequalities on the pre-chorus, and truly ‘brings it on home’ – what it feels like to experience it – even as an adult: “It’s a hard life on easy street / Just white painted picket fences far as you can see / If you think we live in the land of the free / You should try to be black like me.” Besides lyrics and theme, other bright spots include high-flying, powerhouse vocals of Guyton and production that does a fine job of balancing the pop/R&B sensibilities, while remaining idiomatic of country.

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32. Hayley Williams, “Leave It Alone”

💿 Petals for Armor • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 14 ⬇

“If you know love / You best prepare to grieve.” The thoughtfully penned 🎵 “Leave it Alone” (💿 Petals for Armor) finds 🎙 Hayley Williams totally consumed with grief. The record has an extremely somber tone from the onset, instrumentally and lyrically. On the first verse, she sings, “‘Cause now that I want to live / Well everybody around me is dying / Now that I finally wanna live / The ones I love are dyin’.” Thinking about family members dying – people you care about leaving you – is totally depressing and overwhelming. On the second verse, she’s further ‘triggered,’ providing a specific example of loss: “You don’t remember my name somedays / Or that we’re related / It triggers my worry / Who else am I gonna lose before I am ready? / And who’s gonna lose me?” The centerpiece of the record is the chorus, where “The truth’s a killer / But I can’t leave it alone…” An underrated gem from 2020, period.

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31. Rina Sawayama, “Chosen Family”

💿 SAWAYAMA • 🏷 Dirty Hit • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“We don’t need to be related to relate / We don’t need to share genes or a surname / You are, you are / My chosen, chosen family.” Gorgeous, meaningful lyrics, 🎙 Rina Sawayama! The awesome 🎵 “Chosen Family” hails from her 2020 full-length debut, 💿 SAWAYAMA. Rina, a member of the LGBTQ+ community 🏳️‍🌈, is thankful for her community – her ‘chosen Family’ – on this standout. Sawayama serves up lovely, expressive, and nuanced vocals; you sense her authenticity and sincerity. Furthermore, the production is gorgeous. The sound is balanced yet quite colorful and ear catching. The best moment is undoubtedly the catchy chorus, the centerpiece of this standout record. You don’t have to be queer to relate to “Chosen Family”; the messaging is applicable to any number of situations.

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30. The Killers, “Caution”

💿 Imploding the Mirage • 🏷 Island • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 29 ⬇

“I’m throwin’ caution, what’s it gonna be? / Tonight, the winds of change are blowing wild and free.” 🎙 Brandon Flowers and 🎙 The Killers shined on 🎵 “Caution”, the promo single from 💿 Imploding the Mirage. “Caution” commences enigmatically, with pads and slow-moving, restrained vocals by Flowers on the intro. Soon enough, “Caution” embraces groove, a quick tempo, increased dynamics, and those signature expressive, powerful vocals by Flowers (The ‘radio edit’ starts here). As always, Flowers sings with incredible confidence, showcasing his personality, and has some great, narrative-driven lyrics to work with. “Let me introduce you to the featherweight queen,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “She got Hollywood eyes, but she can’t shoot what she sees.” On the second, the lyrics continue to be descriptive – thoughtfully penned: “Never had a diamond on the sole of her shoes / Just blacktop white trash straight out of the news.” Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus, excerpted at the top. Ultimately, it’s a fantastic track featuring great production (🎙 Jonathan Rado and 🎙 Shawn Everett), top-notch vocals, and well-rounded, memorable songwriting.

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29. Conan Gray, “The Story”

💿 Kid Krow • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 21 ⬇

“And the movie’s always runnin’ in my head / All the people, all the lovers, all my friends / And I hope that they all get their happy end / In the end.” 🎵 “The Story” is an absolutely stunning record – a truly awesome moment from 💿 Kid Krow, the debut studio album from 🎙 Conan Gray. What makes “The Story” so stunning? It starts with Gray’s angelic voice. He sings with incredible control and expression. Besides his spectacular performance, “The Story” is accomplished when it comes to production and songwriting. 🎙 Daniel Nigro handles the production, which begins very restrained and minimalist, placing the emphasis on Gray’s illustrious vocals. With such adept pacing, the production percolates at the perfect moment, with Conan’s pipes following suit. The songwriting is even more magical. Written solely by Gray, his ‘story’ encompasses unfortunate suicide and unrealized romance. The ‘sequel’ encompasses two friends trying to make a better life for themselves beyond their evil parents. All boxes are checked off on this totally must-hear, narrative gem.

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28. Miley Cyrus, “Midnight Sky”

💿 Plastic Hearts • 🏷 RCA • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“The midnight sky is the road I’m takin’ / Head high up in the clouds (Oh, oh).” 🎵 “Midnight Sky” finds the talented 🎙 Miley Cyrus showing off her superstar power. All boxes are checked off this highlight from her 2020 album, 💿 Plastic Hearts. It’s written and produced by some of the best in the game. Notably, “Midnight Sky” samples “Edge of Seventeen” by 🎙 Stevie Nicks, nothing short of an awesome choice. Obviously, the sample alone signals another about face for Miley: ‘disco-pop.’ Most importantly, “Midnight Sky” features aggressive, assertive vocals from Cyrus. Her instrument has always been her best weapon; she has a distinct, cutting, powerful voice. She uses her vocals to command this fresh, yet retro dance/disco pop number. Her most passionate vocals arrive on the centerpiece, the chorus.

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27. Trey Songz, “2020 Riots: How Many Times”

💿 Back Home • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 17 ⬇

🎵 “2020 Riots: How Many Times” (💿 Back Home) marks an uncharacteristic song by 🎙 Trey Songz. This powerful record finds him perturbed and totally pissed off about the racial injustice that has come to head in 2020, due to the senseless, unjust deaths of black men and women. “2020 Riots: How Many Times” superbly captures the frustration and the pain. Songz opts for an old-school vibe with a dash of gospel sensibilities. 🎙 Troy Oliver and 🎙 Troy Taylor give him fuel for his fire, alongside the troubling happenings themselves. Songz cuts straight to the chase on the somber chorus, asking, “How many mothers have to cry / How many brothers gotta die? How many more times?” On the verses, he drives the narrative of injustices, referencing details that occurred to those slain and calling for action. “2020 Riots: How Many Times” is among the best songs of 2020 thanks to being authentic, heartfelt, thoughtful and woke.

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26. Bob Dylan, “I Contain Multitudes”

💿 Rough and Rowdy Ways • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎵 “I Contain Multitudes” commences 💿 Rough and Rowdy Ways in utterly sublime fashion. A superb song title, it’s comes directly from a line from the classic, transcendentalist poem, “Song of Myself” by Walt Whitman. Indeed, rock singer/songwriter icon 🎙 Bob Dylan “contains multitudes,” referencing countless things including cinema, history, and music such as “Them British bad boys, The Rolling Stones,” and “Playing Beethoven’s sonatas, and Chopin’s preludes.” Not only are the lyrics excellent, but “I Contain Multitudes” is a legit, gorgeous ballad that perfectly suits Dylan’s distinct voice.

25. Taylor Swift, “Cardigan”

💿 Folklore • 🏷 Taylor Swift • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“And when I felt like I was an old cardigan / Under someone’s bed / You put me on and said I was your favorite.” 💿 Folklore is the very best 🎙 Taylor Swift to date– 💯. One of the best songs from the surprise album is 🎵 “cardigan,” the promo single. Love plays a pivotal role as Swift (her character) explores the beauty of what ends up being long lost [teen] love. Even though she felt unworthy, he made her feel extra special. Losing him stings, something she explores on the emotional third verse. That said, this “new shit” that Taylor Swift is on (per “the 1”) proves to be pretty awesome.

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24. Mac Miller, “Good News”

💿 Circles • 🏷 Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 11 ⬇

🎵 “Good News” is the crowning achievement of 💿 Circles, the posthumous album by 🎙 Mac Miller. One of many 🎙 Jon Brion co-productions on the album, “Good News” sounds quite refined, with plucked strings, a subtle, but highly effective, dusty drum groove, soulful electric guitar, and superb, modest keyboard/synthesizer touches. It’s quite ear-catching, even if it floats as opposed to being dynamic and ‘in your face.’ Beyond the backdrop, Miller is on-point – he’s in reflective mode. “I spent the whole day in my head / Do a little spring cleanin’,” he raps on the first verse, continuing, “I’m always too busy dreamin’, yeah / Well, maybe I should wake up instead.” On the second, he asks, “Why I gotta build something beautiful just too go set in on fire?” The third verse is quite chilling and eerie, with the key lyric, “There’s a whole lot more for me waitin’ on the other side…” The centerpiece, of course, is the chorus. “Good News” is the total realization of Miller’s talent.

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23. The Killers, “My Soul’s Own Warning”

💿 Imploding the Mirage • 🏷 Island • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“But then I thought I could fly / And when I hit the ground / It made a messed up sound / And it kept on rattling through my days…” 🎙 The Killers get off to an electrifying start on their 2020 album, 💿 Implode the Mirage, with 🎵 “My Own Soul’s Warning.” The record is the exemplification of ‘go big or go home!’ The production is epic and turned up to the nth degree. Furthermore, front man 🎙 Brandon Flowers is locked-in and from the jump. He shows poise on the verse, but kicks things up a notch beginning with the pre-chorus (“I tried going against my own soul’s warning / And in the end, something just didn’t feel right”). He absolutely soars on the chorus, flexing his gorgeous tone as well as how truly powerful and potent he can be: “And cutting up my nights / Like a goddamn knife / And it got me thinking, no matter how far / I just wanted to get back to where you are.”

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22. Powfu, “death bed (coffee for your head)”

Ft. beabadoobee

💿 Poems of the past (EP) • 🏷 Columbia / Robots and Humans • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 22 ↔

Canadian rapper and singer 🎙 Powfu (Isaiah Faber) raps about his “death bed (coffee for your head)”, getting a mighty assist from indie-pop singer/songwriter, 🎙 beabadoobee. Beabadoobee plays a big role on “death bed,” thanks to a sample of her song, 🎵 “Coffee”, fueling the fire. Even so, 🎙 Otterpop does a nice job producing this chill yet potent and thoughtful record. Powfu rides the beat easily, seemingly never breaking a sweat. He reflects on love, life, and God. He’s so happy she’s with him, recollects the memories, but also, on a sad note, tells her, “Soon you’ll be alone, sorry that you have to lose me.” Of course, the main attraction is the chorus, with beabadoobee doing work, with Powfu joining her in certain instances (“Don’t stay awake for too long, don’t go to bed / I’ll make a cup of coffee for your head / It’ll get you up and going out of bed”). All in all, Powfu delivers a sweet gem with “death bed.” He’s poetic, reflective, and incredibly thoughtful. The authenticity and sincerity may be the biggest selling point of this record.

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21. The Chicks, “Gaslighter”

💿 Gaslighter • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 9 ⬇

“Gaslighter, denier / Doin’ anything to get your ass farther / Gaslighter, big timer / Repeating all the mistakes of your father.” After an extended hiatus, 🎙 The Chicks came back strong on 🎵 “Gaslighter” (💿 Gaslighter), an electrifying country record, plain and. Opening with powerful, piercing harmonized vocals, the tone is set early on. Set in a major key, producer 🎙 Jack Antonoff constructs a potent, country/folk backdrop for the girls to ‘do work’ on. “Gaslighter” is about a failing relationship that includes deception, most pertinent to 🎙 Natalie Maines’ divorce. The Chicks, known for their attitude, exhibit plenty of it throughout this three-and-a-half-minute bop. Angry Natalie is always a recipe for success.

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20. Joji, “Run”

💿 Nectar • 🏷 88rising / 12 Tone Music • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 12 ⬇

Alternative R&B artist 🎙 Joji shines on 🎵 “Run”, the second single from his sophomore album 💿 Nectar. Notably, on “Run,” he embraces an alt-pop vibe, backed by electric guitar with incredible results. It’s alluring to hear Joji sing in falsetto, flaunting his upper register on the chorus. He doesn’t merely rely on falsetto, of course. He sings quite robustly (chest voice) on the both the verses. The lyrics are emotionally charged, with matters of the heart fueling the fire. “I fell for your magic, I tasted your skin,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “And though this is tragic, at least I found the end.” On the second, he asks, “Will I pay my dues? / Your love was a mystery / Yeah, my love is a fool / And I travel the country just to get to you.” Perhaps Joji’s lover (or ex-lover) is running away, and he is too, but you won’t want to ‘run’ away from “Run” itself – it’s terrific. “Run” is gorgeously performed, features emotionally charged, relatable lyrics, and is superbly produced.

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19. 24kGoldn, “Mood”

Ft. iann dior

🎵 “Mood” • 🏷 Records LLC / Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“Why you always in a mood? Fuckin ‘round, actin’ brand new / I ain’t tryna tell you what to do, but try to play it cool / Baby, I ain’t playing by your rules /Everything look better with a view, yeah.” There is no need for any frills or extra bells and whistles when it comes to commentating about 🎵 “Mood.” Pure and simple, this no. 1 Billboard Hot 100 📉 hit by 🎙 24kGoldn featuring 🎙 iann dior has been igniting the charts. Why? It’s bright and bubbly, set in a major key, with an addictive, totally irresistible chorus. Furthermore, the youthful energy of 24kGoldn and iann dior is absolutely infectious. Honestly, there’s nothing groundbreaking about “Mood” but it’s a crowd-pleaser – a total MOOD!

18. Jack Harlow, “Whats Poppin”

💿 Sweet Action • 🏷 Generation Now / Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

As you can gather from the title, 🎵 “WHATS POPPIN” (💿 Sweet Action) is a banger – a flex-fest. Louisville, Kentucky-bred rapper 🎙 Jack Harlow serves up ample drip on this short, entertaining record. Harlow has superb production work to spit over, courtesy of 🎙 JetsonMade and 🎙 Pooh Bear. As far as the lyrics, “WHATS POPPIN” commences with the chorus, where the flex begins. Following the drippy chorus, Harlow drops one verse that certainly doesn’t lack in confidence. Notably, he references his hometown a couple of times, including the restaurant, Vincenzo’s, as well as the Louisville Cardinals basketball team. Beyond those shout outs, there’s reference to sex and money. Sure, we’ve ‘been there, done that’ obviously, but he possesses confidence, personality, and plenty of swagger.

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17. Dua Lipa, “Break My Heart”

💿 Future Nostalgia • 🏷 Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 16 ⬇

🎵 “Break My Heart” ranks among the best of the best gracing 💿 Future Nostalgia, the critically acclaimed sophomore album by 🏆 Grammy-winning pop sensation, 🎙 Dua Lipa. “Break My Heart” is fueled by a sample (“Need You Tonight”, courtesy of INXS). Furthermore, she works with an elite production team (🎙 Watt and 🎙 Monsters and Strangerz). The results? She slays! How so? Attitude, feistiness, and sassiness. On the chorus, she asserts, “I would’ve stayed at home / ‘Cause I was doing better alone / But when you said, ‘Hello’ / I knew that was the end of it all.” Ultimately, she asks herself at the end of the chorus, “Am I feeling in love with the one that could break my heart?” “Don’t Start Now” may be the crown jewel, but don’t get it twisted – “Break My Heart” is no slouch.

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16. Dua Lipa, “Levitating”

💿 Future Nostalgia • 🏷 Warner • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I believe that you’re for me, I feel it in our energy / I see us written in the stars / We can go wherever, so let’s do it now or never / Baby, nothing’s ever, ever too far.” From start to finish, 🏆 Grammy-winning English pop star 🎙 Dua Lipa shines on 💿 Future Nostalgia. One of the best moments from the album comes with the sleekly produced (🎙 KOZ and 🎙 Stuart Price), incredibly catchy 🎵 “Levitating.” Here, the ‘loving’ has the pop star rising/floating, defying gravity. Although every chorus is pretty amazing throughout Future Nostalgia, the chorus on “Levitating” hits especially hard, where Dua asserts, “I got you, moonlight, you’re my starlight / I need you, all night, come on, dance with me / I’m levitating.” Worth noting, DaBaby appears on the remix.

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15. Tame Impala, “Posthumous Forgiveness”

💿 The Slow Rush • 🏷 Island / Modular Recordings Pty Ltd • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 15 ↔

🎵 “Posthumous Forgiveness” is a standout from 💿 The Slow Rush, the 2020 comeback album by Australian alternative collective 🎙 Tame Impala. Essentially, 🎙 Kevin Parker is forgiving his father after he’s passed away. On the first part of the song, he sings about how much admiration he had when he was younger for his dad but became aware of his flaws. “Did you think I’d never know? Never wise up as I grow?” he sings on the chorus. Furthermore, Parker is bothered by the fact that his dad wasted time, and ultimately, “…Decided to take all your sorrys to the grave.” On the second part of the record, Parker embraces forgiveness more. Sure, he still mentions their estranged, tenuous relationship, but also, he wishes he had the opportunity to atone and repair for the relationship. Although a lengthy number, it’s quite intriguing from a lyrical and thematic standpoint, as well as musically. Musically, Tame Impala provide a backdrop incorporating psychedelia, retro cues, and marvelous soulful elements. Vocally, Parker remains utterly superb, singing beautifully and expressively on this gem.

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14. Ozzy Osbourne, “Ordinary Man”

Ft. Elton John

💿 Ordinary Man • 🏷 Epic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 7 ⬇

“Yes, I’ve been a bad guy, been higher than the blue sky / And the truth is, I don’t wanna die an ordinary man.” 🎵 “Ordinary Man” (💿 Ordinary Man), is quite an elite pop/rock record. As the aforementioned chorus suggests, British metal icon 🎙 Ozzy Osbourne reflects on his life. Specifically, he focuses on fame, regrets and mistakes, and being in a better place now that he’s older and wiser. “I was unprepared for fame then everybody knew my name,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “No more lonely nights, it’s all for you.” Featured guest 🎙 Elton John also reflects on the rock star life, singing with strength on the second verse. Vocally, and lyrically, both men sound fantastic. The chorus, in particular, soars. Beyond the vocals and songwriting, the production (🎙 Andrew Watt and 🎙 Tom Herbert) – the music itself – is superb. Between the final two chorus, there’s an idiomatic guitar solo (🎙 Slash), that hearkens back to the 70s/80s. Maybe more impressively, there are STRINGS, as well as a CHOIR! These amplify the sound and the overall impact making it a truly epic affair. Osbourne may be past his prime, but man, does he sound awesome at 71.

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13. Bob Dylan, “Black Rider”

💿 Rough and Rowdy Ways • 🏷 Columbia • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

The chilling, dark, enigmatic, minor-keyed 🎵 “Black Rider” has a strong argument for the best song from 💿 Rough and Rowdy Ways, the 39^th studio album by 🎙 Bob Dylan. Furthermore, “Black Rider” ranks among the best songs of 2020, easily. Here’s the deal about “Black Rider.” Even if the lyrics weren’t potent and Dylan had ‘fallen off’ his storytelling game, the music alone would earn this record accolades. The production is spare, allowing Bob to be the focal point, yet the harmonic progression – the chords – are absolutely gorgeous. Of course, it’s Bob Dylan, lyrical master, so it only requires one lyric to confirm the elite nature: “Black rider, black rider, hold it right there,” he sings on the fifth and final verse, “The size of your cock will get you nowhere.” How awesome is that? “Black Rider” is subject to interpretation, including references to mortality – perhaps Dylan’s own – and perhaps, more subtly, politics.

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12. Beyoncé, “Black Parade”

💿 The Lion King: The Gift [Deluxe] • 🏷 Sony • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

Arguably, Juneteenth received much more attention in 2020 than it has in years – maybe ever. Sure, President Donald Trump tried to take credit, but the amplification of the celebration was propelled by protests, fighting for racial equality and justice. 🎙 Beyoncé, woke like so many black musicians during an incredibly tense, released a song celebrating blackness, 🎵 “Black Parade”. The Juneteenth 2020 single fittingly finds a home on 💿 The Lion King: The Gift (Deluxe Edition), as both an extended and shorter version. The big takeaway from the record is celebrating blackness, period. “Black Parade” blends African and international music with R&B, hip-hop, and pop. Also, there’s a clearly a socially conscious sentiment. It also successfully establishes a vibe. There’s lots of gimmickry and repetition, but not only is it embracing the minimalist elements of modern, mainstream music, it also revisits the minimalist elements of world music, which makes it so influential on today’s music. Despite its more simplistic elements, “Black Parade” is actually deeper and more transcendent. It’s polarizing, but definitely art and a great conversation piece.

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11. ROSALÍA, “Juro Que”

🎵 “Juro Que” • 🏷 Sony • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 8 ⬇

🎵 “Juro Que”, courtesy of 🏆 Grammy-winning Spanish pop musician, 🎙 ROSALÍA, is one of the best, most impressive songs of 2020. Honestly, it seems like everything that she releases is a certified bop. Although knowledge or fluency in Spanish isn’t necessary to enjoy “Juro Que,” the title translates as “I Swear that.” Theatrical, “Juro Que” portrays a tale where ROSALÍA’s lover is arrested, and she’s totally devastated. She’s willing to do whatever it takes to be with him, even if it involves her own arrest just to be reunited. Damn! From a musical standpoint, instrumentally, “Juro Que” is quite impressive, considering its minimalism. The way that the guitar is used by 🎙 Joselito Acedo is intriguing while the claps are another awesome touch. Beyond the instrumental itself, ROSALÍA shines with her gorgeous, potent vocals. Generally, she’s assertive and quite commanding, but also knows when to pull back. She’s supported by a ‘choir’ of backing vocalists, which amplify “Juro Que” even more. Ultimately, she brings the heat on this distinct record.

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10. Lady Gaga, “Rain on Me”

Ft. Ariana Grande

💿 Chromatica • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 1 ⬇

“I’d rather be dry, but at least I’m alive / Rain on me, rain, rain…” 🎙 Lady Gaga and 🎙 Ariana Grande on the same track? Yaaaasssss! The production (🎙 BloodPop®, 🎙 BURNS, and 🎙 Tchami) is potent from the start on 🎵 “Rain on Me”, the crowning achievement from 💿 Chromatica, where Lady Gaga fully embraces her dance, electro-infused pop roots. Both her and Grande deliver strong, compelling vocals. Gaga asserts herself early on. There are ‘water works’ you might say (“I never asked for the rainfall / At least I showed up, you showed me nothing at all”). Grande unleashes high-flying, contrasting vocals on the second verse, extending the ‘water works’ and most importantly, being honest from an emotional standpoint. “I can feel it on my skin,” she sings on the pre-chorus, continuing, “Teardrops on my face / Let it wash away my sins.” Both collaborate together throughout the remainder of the record. One of the best moments is the bridge, where the positivity and uplifting vibes are a huge selling point. “Rain on Me” is a total bop – among the best songs of 2020 – with two awesome artists at the tip-top of their game.

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9. DaBaby, “Rockstar”

Ft. Roddy Ricch

💿 BLAME IT ON BABY • 🏷 Interscope • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“Let’s go / Brand new Lamborghini, fuck a cop car / With the pistol on my hip like I’m a cop / Have you ever met a real nigga rock star? / This ain’t no guitar, bitch, this a Glock.” 🏆 Grammy-nominated rapper 🎙 DaBaby enlists his fellow 🏆 Grammy-nominated rapper 🎙 Roddy Ricch on his dominant no. 1 hit “Rockstar” (💿 BLAME IT ON BABY). This is a more melodic rap performance, adding pop and R&B sensibilities. No worries, as 🎙 SethInTheKitchen ensures the production is anchored by trunk rattling drums. Even with a sense of melody under his belt, DaBaby isn’t soft – he’s riskier and more reckless if possible, as the aforementioned chorus confirms. Crowd pleaser that’s an undeniable gem any way you look at it.

8. BTS, “Dynamite”

💿 Be • 🏷 BigHit Entertainment • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

🎙 BTS have carved out ample success in the United States. Quite prolific, the boys returned in 2020 with a single performed exclusively in English, 🎵 “Dynamite”. “Dynamite” is hella likable, thanks to being carefree, positive and sunny to the nth degree. The vocals are incredibly potent, particularly the falsetto. The lyrics are fun, with tongue-n-cheek and some gimmickry with repetition. The crowning achievement, unsurprisingly, is the catchy, infectious chorus; it instantly gets stuck in your head (“Shining through the city with a little funk and soul / So I’ma light it up like dynamite, woah-oh-oh.”)! Also, worth praising is the sleek production, something we’ve come to expect from BTS and K-Pop music in general. This contemporary disco-pop single is a nice blend of retro, modern pop and contemporary R&B – sweet! Furthermore, I must say, I appreciate the key change that comes at the end of the record; we only rarely get modulations in pop music these days. A surefire winner in my book!

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7. Taylor Swift, “Exile”

Ft. Bon Iver

💿 Folklore • 🏷 Taylor Swift • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“I think I’ve seen this film before / And I didn’t like the ending / You’re not my homeland anymore / So what am I defending?” 💿 Folklore is the very best 🎙 Taylor Swift to date– 💯. Honestly, any of the 16 songs that appear on the album would’ve been at home on this fancy tickling list. That said, it is 🎵 “Exile” featuring 🎙 Bon Iver is arguably the crowning achievement of folklore, that represents the tour de force here. First and foremost, the musicianship truly stands out on “Exile,” with the expressive vocals of 🎙 Justin Vernon complementing Swift exquisitely. Swift never forces things from a vocal perspective, and it really pays off here. The songwriting is gorgeous, both lyrically and instrumentally. The crème de la crème? The chorus is exceptional, but maybe the nod goes to the extended outro, where we’re blessed with that incredible chemistry established between Swift and Vernon (“All this time / We always walked a very thin line / You didn’t even hear me out (Didn’t even hear me out)”). Brilliant!

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6. Lil Baby, “The Bigger Picture”

🎵 “The Bigger Picture” • 🏷 Quality Control Music • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 6 ↔

🎙 Lil Baby has had an incredibly successful year. His best work comes on the deep and insightful 🎵 “The Bigger Picture”. Not only is it his best song, it’s also among the best of 2020. Following the intro with its news clips about the protests in Minneapolis, Lil Baby comes in on autopilot, blending conscious rap with his beloved trap flow. Throughout the course of a couple of verses, he’s very honest, thoughtful, and incredibly insightful about the events that have turned the world upside down. “I find it crazy the police’ll shoot you and know that you dead, but still tell you to freeze / Fucked up, I seen what I seen,” he spits on the first verse, continuing, “I guess that mean hold him down if he say he can’t breathe.” There are countless instances where Lil Baby nails it. He references the fears blacks have toward the police, based on an ugly history. He supports protests, but sensibly acknowledges not all cops are bad. Among the best lines comes on the third verse, as he acknowledges protests made COVID-19 slip to the back burner. He brilliantly sums things up on the chorus. “The Bigger Picture” marked a big moment for Lil Baby.

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5. Cardi B & Megan Thee Stallion, “WAP”

🎵 “WAP” • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 🆕

“There’s some whores in this house! / There’s some whore’s in this house!” 🎵 “WAP” definitely had everyone’s undivided attention! 🎙 Cardi B and 🎙 Megan Thee Stallion are known for their fiercely, sexed-up personas, and “WAP” shows them straight-up flexing. Modesty is never the modus operandi on this former no. 1 it with “whores” being the first word of the song on the intro (the record samples 🎵 “Whores in This House” by 🎙 Frank Ski). Cardi B asserts at the end of the intro, “Wet-ass pussy, make that pullout game weak, woo.” She goes on to speak about the wetness on the chorus, while on the first verse, she asserts, “Hop on top, I wanna ride / I do a Kegel while it’s inside.” As for Megan Thee Stallion, on the second verse, she begins with a bang: “Gobble me, swallow me, drip down the side of me / Quick, jump out ‘fore you let it get inside of me.” It doesn’t stop there as both have additional verses with absolutely shocking, highly sexual lyrics. The ‘freaky’ perspective won’t be relatable or win everyone over but give them credit for such a raw joint where the women freely express their sexual desires like the men frequently do.

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4. Roddy Ricch, “The Box”

💿 Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial • 🏷 Atlantic • 🗓 2019

Previous Rank: 4 ↔

🎙 Roddy Ricch had a breakout year in 2019 with his debut studio album, 💿 Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial. One of the reasons for the album’s success is the dominant, multiplatinum Billboard Hot 100 no. 1 hit, 🎵 “The Box.” “The Box” is a contemporary classic, beginning with the endearing, signature vocal sample by Ricch, before he goes H.A.M. on the absolutely memorable chorus, which includes “Had to put the stick in the box, mmh / Pour out the whole damn seal, I’ma get lazy…” Sigh, hee does all of this over terrific, minor-key production by 🎙 30 Roc and 🎙 Datboisqueeze, supercharged by a fierce 🎙 Ciara sample (🎵 “Love Sex Magic”). Beyond the chorus, Ricch is on autopilot on the verses as well, rapping about drip, violence, and sex. Of course, there’s no shortage of the sexual context, exemplified by one of my favorite, ‘X-rated’ lines: “She sucked a nigga soul, gotta Cash App.”

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3. Fiona Apple, “Shameika”

💿 Fetch the Bolt Cutters • 🏷 Epic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 3 ↔

🎙 Fiona Apple only releases an album “once in a blue moon,” hence why her fifth studio album, 💿 Fetch the Bolt Cutters, arrived after an eight-year hiatus! The good news is that the 🏆 Grammy-winner never releases a bad album. One of the reasons Fetch the Bolt Cutters is so accomplished? The incredibly memorable 🎵 “Shameika”. “But Shameika said I had potential / But Shameika said I had potential,” Apple sings on the infectious chorus. About someone she met as a kid, but doesn’t describe as a friend, Shameika certainly had an influence on Apple – one of many stories that adds to the sheer excellence of Fetch the Bolt Cutters. Throughout, she recounts her childhood experiences, not to mention throwing in a colorful lyric inspired by bassist, Sebastian. Musically, the listener is blessed with acrobatic piano lines, and quick, rhythmic, and playful melodic lines. Sometimes, they’re not even melodic – chanted, spoken word. This is art pop with a lot of approaches idiomatic of jazz.

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2. Megan Thee Stallion, “Savage”

💿 Suga [EP] • 🏷 300 Entertainment • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 5 ⬆

“I’m that bitch / Been that bitch, still that bitch / Will forever be that bitch.” High in demand, 🎙 Megan Thee Stallion has had a hell of a year in 2020. Her biggest moment, as the lead artist, was none other than 🎵 “Savage.” The aforementioned lyrics from the intro certainly confirm the savagery of “Savage.” OF course, there are ample examples, whether Megan is a “Bad bitch, still talking cash shit / Pussy like water, I’m unbothered and relaxing,” or urging him to “Eat me and record it, but your edge-up all I’m showing…” Further amplifying the savagery is the banging production work by 🎙 J.White. The centerpiece comes by way of the kick ass chorus, which cements the certified bop: “I’m a savage / Classy, bougie, ratchet / Sassy, moody, nasty / Acting stupid, what’s happening? / Bitch, what’s happening?” Also, doesn’t hurt that the remix adds 🎙 Beyoncé, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 📉. Strong case for the best song of 2020.

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1. The Weeknd, “Blinding Lights”

💿 After Hours • 🏷 Republic • 🗓 2020

Previous Rank: 2 ⬆

And the best song of 2020 is… 🎵 “Blinding Lights” (💿 After Hours) by 🎙 The Weeknd. That’s right, the former Billboard Hot 100 no. 1 hit 📉 ascends on the final 100 Best Songs of 2020 🎧 to the top spot, deservedly! Somehow, the 🏆 Grammy-winning Canadian R&B artist found himself snubbed when the 2021 Grammy nominations were released – unacceptable! Despite the lack of acknowledgement, he’s given us a truly epic pop song. It commences enigmatically with a minor key (eventually settling into major) and moody synths. This is before the groove settles in, one of the biggest selling points. There’s plenty to ❤ about this single, starting with its pop/pop-rock vibe. 🎙 Max Martin and 🎙 Oscar Holter produce alongside The Weeknd.

“Blinding Lights” features beautiful vocals, the form is pretty straightforward, while the centerpiece should come as no surprise – the chorus:

“I said, ooh, I’m blinded by the lights
No, I can’t sleep until I feel your touch
I said, ooh, I’m drowning in the night
Oh, when I’m like this, you’re the one I trust
Hey, hey hey.”

Thematically, The Weekend focuses on love, relationships, and sex – predictable, but always effective. All in all, “Blinding Lights” is superb, showing his versatility on this sick, utterly infectious, pop record.

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