50 Best Songs of 2016 | Year in Review Playlist

41. Aminé, “Caroline”

There are numerous songs about guys lusting after girls. However, viral hit “Caroline” is perfectly captures a familiar scenario with indisputable freshness and swagger.  “Caroline” lacks complexity and depth, but doesn’t require either.

41. Solange ft. Sampha, “Don’t Touch My Hair”

(A Seat at the Table)

“Don’t Touch My Hair” (featuring Sampha) plays on stereotypes and naivety. Even so, it’s metaphorical as well, transcending any stereotypes. The jazzy neo-soul record tackles invasiveness, racial profiling, and pride.

43. Beyoncé ft. Kendrick Lamar, “Freedom”

(Lemonade)

On Freedom” Beyoncé tackles black social issues.  For years, Beyoncé was known primarily for her dance-pop, hip-hop infused R&B music (and looks).  Lemonade eliminates pigeonholing her; Beyoncé uses numerous songs as a call-to-action, including this Grammy-nominated gem.

44. The Avett Brothers, “Ain’t No Man”

(True Sadness)

The Avett Brothers open their 2016 album, True Sadness, spiritedly with “Ain’t No Man.” An updated folk-rock record, “Ain’t No Man” has broad appeal. A minimal, hard-hitting groove coupled with awesome, assertive vocal harmonies is equivalent to utter exceptionalness!

45. Grace ft. G-Eazy, “You Don’t Own Me”

(FMA)

“You Don’t Own Me” is the crème de la crème.  Grace is joined by G-Eazy, who gives provides awesome contributions.  Grace doesn’t play “second fiddle,” owning the song’s M.O. of importance of the independent woman.

46. Lady Gaga, “Angel Down”

(Joanne)

“Perfect Illusion” and “Million Reasons” have earned the most buzz from Lady Gaga’s latest album, Joanne.  However, ballad “Angel Down” packs a mightier punch. The songwriting is spot-on, dabbling in racism, social injustice, and gun control.  Gaga tweeted that the inspiration for the song was the murder of Trayvon Martin.

47. Elton John, “Wonderful Crazy Night”

(Wonderful Crazy Night)

Elton John doesn’t get his just due – say what? Sure, John is past his lucrative prime, but his 2016 LP Wonderful Crazy Night rocks hard – real hard.  Likewise, the title track is an electrifying opener, showcasing incredible vocals and the utmost musicianship from the band.

48. Tyler Glenn, “G.D.M.M.L. GRLS”

(Excommunication)

Excommunication is one of the best albums of 2016 that few people are talking about. One of the best moments from the Neon Trees’ frontman’s debut is “G.D.M.M.L. GRLS,” which stands for God Didn’t Make Me Like Girls. Here, like the majority of Excommunication, Glenn gets personal about his sexuality, the hurdles associated with being gay, and leaving the LDS Church.

49. Andy Black, “We Don’t Have to Dance”

(The Shadow Side)

“We Don’t Have to Dance” is the centerpiece of Andy Black’s solo debut, The Shadow Side. Besides being a fun, “adrenaline-filled rock cut,” “We Don’t Have to Dance” is meaningful and relatable.  According to the musician, the song is about social anxiety.

50. Radiohead, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor Rich Man Poor Man Beggar Man Thief”

(A Moon Shaped Pool)

“Burn the Witch” is the centerpiece of Radiohead’s newest LP (A Moon Shaped Pool). Even so, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor Rich Man Poor Man Beggar Man Thief” shouldn’t be neglected. Thom Yorke tackles environmental issues, concerned about the well-being of the animals and forests.

Photo Credit: Def Jam