27 Best Songs From 2011

Today we've compiled a list of the best songs from 2011 for singing, dancing, reflecting, crying, or just jamming out in the car.

Some you may know, but I’m sure you find a few surprise hits in there that are bound to become your new favorites.

1. Born This Way by Lady Gaga

Song Year: 2011

Lady Gaga had many top hits in 2011, including “You and I” and “The Edge of Glory,” but “Born This Way” is one of her most timeless.

It's an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, people with disabilities, people with insecurities, and anyone else who's ever been made to feel othered or less than for any reason.

“Born This Way” is about being proud of who you are and unapologetic, which is why it was the perfect song to let loose on the dance floor!

2. You Make Me Feel… by Cobra Starship, Featuring Sabi

Song Year: 2011

Cobra Starship's ‘You Make Me Feel” was a huge club hit because of its catchy beat and lyrics. The lyrics are simple enough to learn upon a few listens, which is why it was not only fun to dance to but also to sing along to.

The song is about being attracted to someone and expressing your feelings.

3. Paradise by Coldplay

Song Year: 2011

Coldplay's “Paradise” is a beautiful, semi-somber but still somehow uplifting song about dreaming of a better life. Some of the lyrics are melancholy yet powerful and hopeful, and the combination of piano, strings, and drums makes it sound like a classic.

Chris Martin's vocals make the song even more beautiful, as they convey the emotion and sentiment of wanting more out of life. It's an excellent choice for a passionate dance number.

4. We Found Love by Rihanna, Featuring Calvin Harris

Song Year: 2011

Rihanna is known for her multi-genre talent, and her EDM hit “We Found Love” demonstrated how versatile her vocals were.

The song is dynamic in both beats and lyrics. It's about finding love but also about how toxic that love can be when it starts from feeling hopeless and desperate.

Despite the underlying melancholic meaning, it's an intense song that will instantly liven up a club or party. The build-up to the beat drop in the chorus is arguably the best party because it's so hard not to dance (or jump) along with it.

5. Party Rock by LMFAO

Song Year: 2011

If you haven't caught on, there were numerous party hits in 2011, and LMFAO were the kings of the party genre.

“Party Rock” was truly a party anthem and probably the most played song at any party. It's got a fun, repetitive, clap-heavy beat and a catchy chorus, which is why it's been so popular all these years.

Though the lyrics are not particularly special, they're simple and perfect for partying. Playing “Party Rock” is still an easy way to get the party started or to keep it going all night long.

6. How to Love by Lil Wayne

Song Year: 2011

Slowing things down a bit on this list of the best songs from 2011 is “How to Love” by Lil Wayne. Wayne has his fair share of songs with fast beats and hard-hitting bars, but he experiments with a softer, more loving song in this hit.

Wayne sings and raps about a woman who didn't learn how to love and has insecurities because she was never shown real love and instead got into toxic relationships.

Many people were surprised by how heart-touching a song from Lil Wayne was, but it helped prove that he was a versatile artist and made his mark on the music industry even deeper.

7. Till the World Ends by Britney Spears

Song Year: 2011

Britney Spears came back strong in 2011 with the single “Till the World Ends,” which greatly impacted the music industry. It was the second single from her Femme Fatale album, an upbeat, energetic dance-pop track.

This song is about letting loose and not letting anyone hold you back. It has a truly infectious beat that's hard not to move to. She was already the Queen of Pop before this hit, but it helped solidify that truth to the younger generation who might've not grown up listening to her music.

8. What the Hell by Avril Lavigne

Song Year: 2011

Another artist who came back strong with a new vibe in 2011 was Avril Lavigne. She was always known for her dark, punk rock look and somber ballads, but the hit “What the Hell” proved that she was a more dynamic artist than people originally assumed.

The song is about being unapologetic and not always trying to be “good” or “do the right thing” just to please other people, especially in romantic relationships.

It's an empowering, perhaps somewhat controversial anthem that many people can relate to, especially those who have grown up in a strict environment and want to break out of that box.

9. Give Me Everything by Pitbull, Featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack, and Nayer

Song Year: 2011

Some party songs were about drinking, dancing, and having a good time. But the sentiment behind “Give Me Everything” is slightly deeper than that.

The idea is that you should appreciate life and how far you've come and take advantage of every moment you have because you don't know if you will be here tomorrow.

There are also sexual lyrics in the chorus, suggesting for the listener to grab someone attractive, and it also still has themes of drinking and dancing. But the overall meaning is relatively impactful for a club hit.

10. Black and Yellow [G-Mix] by Wiz Khalifa, Featuring Snoop Dogg, Juicy J, and T-Pain

Song Year: 2011

Wiz Khalifa is from Pittsburgh, so it's not surprising that the hit “Black and Yellow” was all about repping his hometown, as those are the colors of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In addition to the Steelers, Khalifa makes other references to these colors, such as his black luxury cars and his gold (or “yellow”) jewelry pieces.

The original song is good on its own, but the G-Mix features big artists, like Snoop Dogg, who made the hit song even more popular.

11. We R Who We R by Kesha

Song Year: 2011

If you were in college during 2011, you're likely familiar with “We R Who We R.” This song was about dressing up, going out, tearing up the dance floor, and getting crazy for the heck of it.

It speaks directly to young people but also to people getting older who want to maintain their youthful vibes.

All you need is glitter, ripped stockings, and a fun party to go to!

12. Someone Like You by Adele

Song Year: 2011

Adele’s song “Someone Like You” was a major hit all over the world. It speaks about a failed relationship in the past, but it also has themes of recovery and moving on.

This slow ballad is incredibly powerful, as Adele sings about her pain in a way that anyone who's been through heartbreak can relate to. It doesn't get any more genuine than this.

This song helped solidify Adele's place as a music powerhouse and became the soundtrack for many people's breakups, especially when they're still in love with their ex-partner.

13. Barefoot Blue Jean Night by Jake Owen

Song Year: 2011

Country music is often about having a good time, and this song from Jake Owen fits that bill. He sings about the joys of going barefoot, being with friends, and having a fun, casual night out filled with attractive people and ice-cold beers.

The lyrics are simple but effective, as they accurately capture the feeling of freedom and youth from a night out with friends.

It's a great, feel-good song that reminds people to make the most of their time and not take life too seriously.

14. Motivation by Kelly Rowland, Featuring Lil Wayne

Song Year: 2011

In addition to party hits, 2011 had many sensual songs meant for the bedroom, and “Motivation” was one of the best.

Kelly uses her sultry, powerful voice to sing about encouraging her lover to go harder, longer, deeper, and slower for her.

Lil Wayne is the perfect artist to feature in this song, as he's well-known for sexually suggestive lyrics, and his verse is creative while perfectly fitting the theme of the song.

15. Price Tag by Jessie J, Featuring B.O.B.

Song Year: 2011

Jessie J has one of the music industry's most unique and powerful voices. And although “Price Tag” might not demonstrate the true range and versatility of her vocal abilities, it's a deeply meaningful and socially impactful hit that made people think.

The song points out how the music industry (and society in general) is becoming increasingly superficial and obsessed with things like money and appearances.

Jessie J uses her song to shut down the idea of only making songs about how much money you have and focus more on the actual music and allowing people to sing and dance.

16. Headlines by Drake

Song Year: 2011

The flow, beat, punchlines, and progression of the song are all noteworthy in “Headlines.” Drake shows his lyrical ability and knack for storytelling as he talks about the highs and lows of fame.

He raps about being proud of his accomplishments and not letting the haters get him down. He also references the importance of having a team behind him who will help and support him when times are tough.

But like most of Drake's songs, the song isn't about just one thing. There are references to other (worse) rappers, girls, and money. Ultimately, the beat and lyrics are timeless, and Drake fans still gladly listen to this track on repeat.

17. Shake It Out by Florence + The Machine

Song Year: 2011

Florence + The Machine isn't necessarily known for their club hits or party bangers, but even they leaned into the 2011 upbeat song theme by making a vibrant, energetic, and soulful track.

“Shake It Out” is the perfect song to help you let go of the past, as Florence asks us to get rid of the “devil” that's metaphorically on our back, so we can get up, dance, and enjoy life to the fullest.

This song is perfect for listening to if you're going through a hard time or just getting out of a bad situation and need the motivation to move forward and push on with strength and confidence.

18. Stereo Hearts by Gym Class Heroes

Song Year: 2011

Not all romantic songs are slow and sensual. In 2011, Gym Class Heroes released “Stereo Hearts,” a song that carries an upbeat, feel-good vibe with it.

But at the same time, it sounds like a hip love letter, with the narrator expressing his loving thoughts with his crush.

The comparison between a heart and a stereo is catchy and memorable since your heart beats just like a stereo system “beats” when music is playing.

19. Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People

Song Year: 2011

“Pumped Up Kicks” is intriguing because it sounds cheerful and bright, but the lyrics are quite menacing.

The song is about a kid that has had enough of being mistreated and is planning a mass shooting at his school.

The song was controversial because some people didn't think it was appropriate to have a song about such a serious topic that had a cheery sound. But despite the controversy, it still remains one of the most iconic songs of the year and even the decade.

20. Tonight Tonight by Hot Chelle Rae

Song Year: 2011

The song “Tonight Tonight” starts with some sad lyrics about having a crappy week and getting cheated on by an attractive girlfriend.

However, the tune and lyrics quickly shift to a more upbeat and positive message.

Whether it's the best way to deal with your issues is debatable, but it's a catchy tune that helps remind people not to take life too seriously and let go sometimes.

21. Without You by David Guetta, Featuring Usher

Song Year: 2011

During the 2008-2014 era of party music, it seemed as if every major singer had collaborated with a major DJ, and “Without You” is a top example.

David Guetta made a feel-good club banger mixed with a melodic, romantic hit with the help of Usher's smooth, sultry, and dynamic vocals.

This song is a great choice for a wedding or anniversary reception because it has both a romantic and celebratory feel.

22. Who Says by Selena Gomez & The Scene

Song Year: 2011

The song “Who Says” is a wonderful song to share with kids, teens, and young adults who are going through a time of pressure or struggling with heavy social comparison.

It's all about understanding your worth and knowing you're beautiful, special, and able to accomplish anything you set your mind to.

It's a beautiful, inspiring song that helped Selena grow her career, as it helped change and save people's lives.

23. Love On Top by Beyonce

Song Year: 2011

There are many excellent aspects of “Love On Top” by Beyonce, but one of the most memorable is the increasing key change towards the end of the song.

She repeats the phrase beginning with “baby, it's you” and gradually increases the key of her singing, adding a dramatic element that reflects how passionate she feels about the lover she's singing about.

It's a powerful song, both lyrically and musically, and so much fun to sing to – or at least attempt to sing!

24. Just a Kiss by Lady A

Song Year: 2011

If you're looking for a good wedding song from 2011, “Just a Kiss” is the perfect option. It's a beautiful and romantic song with a catchy tune about the initial spark of love.

The narrator expresses their desire for the relationship to move forward, and the lyrics also show how the two characters express their love for each other with just a simple kiss.

This song would be especially perfect for a first dance or last dance during a wedding reception.

25. My Last by Big Sean

Song Year: 2011

Big Sean's “My Last” is about living life to the fullest and embracing a fun night instead of worrying about the things that might be upsetting us at the moment.

It's an encouraging song that provides perspective. Instead of being sad, you can take advantage of where you are and be grateful for what you have because you never know what might happen in the future or even if the current night might be your last one.

26. Look At Me Now by Chris Brown, Featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes

Song Year: 2011

“Look At Me Now” is an anthem of confidence, showcasing Chris Brown's slick rhymes and slick moves.

The song features Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes, all spitting bars about their successes.

It's a great song to put on when you're feeling down and need an extra push of confidence. It's also great to dance with friends, as the energy is contagious.

27. On The Floor by Jennifer Lopez

Song Year: 2011

It only makes sense to end a list of some of the best songs from 2011 with another party song, as this was arguably the year's biggest genre.

“On The Floor” has an exceptionally catchy beat and a fun chorus that's sure to get people up on their feet.

Ultimately, this song is a vibrant reminder that no matter who you are or your background, you can just let go and have fun on the dancefloor.

Top Songs From 2011, Final Thoughts

From Lady Gaga hits to Lil Wayne bops and beyond, the list of the best songs from 2011 is long. We hope this compilation has given you some ideas about what top songs from 2011 still stands up today!

Whether it's something to make you dance, reflect on life, or just rock out in your car – there's sure to be something here that will strike a chord with you. Take some time today to listen back through these tracks and enjoy them as much now as we did then!