The early 2000s brought us some truly iconic songs that we still hit the repeat button on. Beyond the songs, it was also the birth of huge artists like Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Rihanna, and Kelly Clarkson. With so much fantastic pop talent, how can you pick which songs make the list of your top favorites?
Well, we did the work for you. We took a look at some of the biggest lists and pulled together the songs we think you should have on every early 2000’s playlist. Keep reading for our favorites and see what we have in common.
Justin Timberlake – “Cry Me A River”
Any teen of the early 2000s will tell you how impactful this video was. It was the first time Timberlake stepped out and stepped up for himself by outting what ruined his high profile relationship with pop starlet, Britney Spears.
Between the video and the hooky melody, this song was a true revenge rager.
Kelly Clarkson – Since U Been Gone
Another great break-up track came in the form of American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson’s first single. The powerhouse vocalist brought all she had to the table with this anthemic track.
It solidified her as one to watch and proved to all of us she was more than just a pretty ballad singer. She could kick some serious vocal a$$ at the same time.
Destiny’s Child – Bootylicious
Before Beyonce was, well, Beyonce, she was a founding member of the girl group, Destiny’s Child. They released considerable hits in the early 2000s, including Bootylicious. A danceable track that got all the ladies on the club floor night after night.
They became synonymous with single lady anthems long before Beyonce released her dynamic solo track of the same name.
Alicia Keys – Fallin’
Who could forget the incredible voice of Alicia Keys on this single? The radio picked it up, and it caught fire, bringing Keys to the forefront of the music industry. Between her incredible talents on the keys and her stunning vocals, it wasn’t a surprise to anyone that she took off. We love to see that she’s still killing us with that voice today.
Rihanna – Umbrella
When Rihanna was just a teen, she released some truly unforgettable singles. The most popular of which was Umbrella. All about the power of friendship and holding down for one another, it showed the softer side of the singer who usually released bombastic club tracks.
Usher – Yeah!
Speaking of club bangers. Yeah! was a massive hit for the already famous R&B crooner, Usher. The song transitioned him from sensual soul singer to party town hottie. For almost a year straight, you couldn’t go anywhere without hearing this song, and we loved it that way.
OutKast – Hey Ya!
What said PARTY more than an OutKast track? The early ’00s were littered with celebrations set to their quirky melodies and crazy lyrics. It’s not a surprise we still consider many of their singles party anthems to this day.
Did your favorite single from the early 2000s make our list of top songs?
