21 Best Songs From 2004

“My Prerogative” by Britney Spears

Song year: 2004

Britney Spears faced a lot of media attention in the early 2000s, and “My Prerogative” spoke directly to her haters.

The song got released in a collection of her greatest hits called Greatest Hits: My Prerogative. “My Prerogative” is all about Britney expressing that she has a right to her own opinions and way of living. Meanwhile, it expanded the vocabulary of millions of listeners.

“1985” by Bowling For Soup

Song year: 2004

American indie-pop band Bowling For Soup looked back to the past in their hit song “1985” on their 2004 album A Hangover You Don't Deserve.

The song tells the story of a woman named Debbie who feels out of touch with her wild side now that she’s a mom and has grown older. The moment the opening “Oohs” start with this song, listeners will want to sing along to the memorable lyrics and chorus about being stuck in the past.

“Don’t Tell Me” by Avril Lavigne

Song year: 2004

Canadian singer and songwriter Avril Lavigne released the angsty break-up smash hit “Don’t Tell Me” in 2004. This pop-punk song is from Avril’s second album, Under My Skin.

“Don’t Tell Me” won two awards at the 2004 MuchMusic Video Awards for Best International Video By A Canadian and People's Choice Favourite Canadian Artist.

“Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw

Song year: 2004

One of the best country songs from 2004 is Tim McGraw’s “Live Like You Were Dying.” This emotional song shares the story of someone who is diagnosed with a terminal illness and given an expiration date. Instead of being disheartened, the inspiring song shares that they do everything they ever wanted that they were too afraid to try before.

If you’re looking for an emotional country song from the 2000s, “Live Like You Were Dying” is a must-hear.

“Lose My Breath” by Destiny’s Child

Song year: 2004

Before Queen B was a solo artist, she was part of the girl group Destiny’s Child, and “Lose My Breath” is one of their most popular songs from 2004.

This classic dance song has intricate and hypnotic marching band drum beats alongside the iconic vocals of Kelly, Michelle, and Beyonce. The song peaked in the top five on music charts globally as a dance anthem of the decade.

“Just Lose It” by Eminem

Song year: 2004

Eminem was incredibly popular in the early 2000s. “Just Lose It” was a controversial song from his 2004 album Encore. The song and music video both begin by ripping on Michael Jackson and continue to make obscene comments, in typical Eminem fashion, throughout the song.

“Just Lose It” is one of the best songs from 2004, with fast-paced lyrics and witty rhymes that listeners and rappers still try to emulate today. The controversial music video was not well received by Michael Jackson and his fans, leading BET to drop the video from their rotation momentarily.

“Goodies” by Ciara feat. Jive

Song year: 2004

Ciara released her debut album and single of the same name, Goodies, in 2004. “Goodies” is one of the best crunk dance songs from 2004. The song features synthesizer background instrumentals with Ciara’s angelic voice and Jive’s raps.

In 2004, “Goodies” by Ciara and Jive peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs weekly music charts.

“Rich Girl” by Gwen Stefani feat. Eve

Song year: 2004

Gwen Stefani debuted her first solo album in 2004 after a long career as the lead singer for No Doubt. “Rich Girl” is from Stefani’s Love. Angel. Music. Baby. album and was a massive success in the early 2000s.

Stefani took inspiration from Fiddler on the Roof when writing this song about all the things the pop star would do with her millions. Eve comes in on the bridge with a flawless rap before Gwen dives back into the catchy chorus. The music video features the two as pirates on a ship filled with gold and jewels.

“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers

Song year: 2004

2004 was an amazing year for The Killers with the successful hits “Somebody Told Me” and “Mr. Brightside” from their debut album Hot Fuss.

“Mr. Brightside” is one of the best songs from 2004 and continues to get ample airplay on radio stations internationally. With an upbeat tempo and fun-to-sing lyrics, this happy tune is a must-have on a 2000s-themed music playlist.

“I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” by My Chemical Romance

Song year: 2004

My Chemical Romance were the heroes in emo culture, and their second studio album, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, embodied everything 2004 listeners wanted in angsty music. “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” was a huge success with lyrics and a catchy chorus that are a clear cry for help.

“I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” is an example of good music from 2004 that peaked in the top five of the US Billboard Alternative Airplay weekly charts. The music video features the band donning emo attire and makeup while singing at a stereotypical high school.

Top Songs From 2004, Final Thoughts

Listen to these top songs from 2004 to relive the musical moments that shaped a generation.

From Britney to Snoop Dog to My Chemical Romance, this list includes remarkable examples of good music from 2004 for all types of music listeners. Many of these popular songs still get radio play and have returned to the limelight in recent years as trending TikTok sound bites.