100 Best Songs of 2020: 75 – 51 | Playlist

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

F*CK 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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