27 Best Songs From 2015

2015 was a special year for music, with a number of songs getting over a billion views on Youtube.

While picking good music can be subjective, here’s a list of the best songs from 2015.

“Hello” by Adele

Song Year: 2015

Hello is a hit by Adele from her album, 25, that speaks of missing someone the narrator used to be in a romantic relationship with.

The dynamic chords and Adele's passionate voice combined made for an incredibly emotional and riveting ballad that the world simply couldn't get enough of, sparking Adele into even more stardom.

“Earned It” by The Weeknd

Song Year: 2015

The Weeknd recorded “Earned It” for the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack. As you might expect if you know anything about this film, this track is sultry and sexy.

The slow but striking instrumentals play a key role in how seductive the song is, but Weeknd's smooth and dreamy falsetto seals the deal. The lyrics also praise a lover, saying how much they are worth your time, energy, and love.

“Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap

Song Year: 2015

Fetty Wap's Trap Queen took the country by storm, especially in clubs and college campuses. It starts with a seemingly simple beat, which helps highlight, but once the chorus hits, the bass starts booming, and you can tell why it became a big party song.

It's also notable for being an intriguingly unique romantic song. It doesn't sound like one from the first time you hear it, but the lyrics are quite sweet. 

“FourFiveSeconds” by Rihanna, Kanye West, and Paul McCartney

Song Year: 2015

The beauty of “FourFiveSeconds” is that there is a stark contrast between the instrumentals and the lyrics.

Rihanna opens up the song by speaking about how she is feeling taken advantage of and will likely go wild on someone if they don't start to listen to her or take her seriously.

That theme plays out throughout the song, with a light, somewhat upbeat guitar tune humming along in the background.

“What Do You Mean?” by Justin Bieber

Song Year: 2015

Like “FourFiveSeconds,” Bieber's “What Do You Mean” also contrasts beat and lyrics, with a vibrant dance tune juxtaposed with lyrics expressing frustration over a relationship.

The lyrics can resonate with anyone who's been in a relationship with someone who is either passive-aggressive or doesn't quite know how to express their feelings.

“See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa, Featuring Charlie Puth

Song Year: 2015

A soft, elegant piano instrumental opens up “See You Again,” with Charlie Puth's equally soft and graceful voice singing on top.

Then once Wiz Khalifa begins rapping, the instrumental becomes more upbeat and passionate, which reflects the passion in the lyrics about missing someone you love. This is a beautiful song for anyone who has lost someone, either through a breakup, a big move, or someone passing away.

“Good For You” by Selena Gomez

Song Year: 2015

In 2015, Selena Gomez proved more than ever before that she wasn't just this innocent former Disney actress but a grown woman who could sing about more mature topics.

“Good for You” is one of the perfect examples, as it's a sultry song about dressing up nicely in skin-tight clothing and looking good for your lover. She also alludes to taking off those same clothes and leaving them on the floor, making the hit even sexier.

“Where Are U Now” by Diplo and Skrillex, Featuring Justin Bieber

Song Year: 2015

Diplo and Skrillex are world-renowned DJs who combined their artistry for this huge EDM hit featuring another world-renowned artist, Justin Bieber.

Like many hit songs of 2015, the track opens up slow and dream-like to invite the listener to tune in and pay attention, then there's a more upbeat, dance-worthy instrumental drop.

The song speaks to someone giving their all in a relationship but not receiving the same level of love and support back, especially in times of need.

“Coffee” by Miguel

Song Year: 2015

Miguel is known for his dynamic, seductive songs about love, sex, and passion; “Coffee” is a great example of this.

He tests out a faster-pace, almost rap-like singing over a spirited and futuristic instrumental. The song illustrates a relationship that's just as dynamic as the song, doing big and adventurous things at times but also simply enjoying coffee every morning.

It's the little things that count in relationships at the end of the day.

“Worth It” by Fifth Harmony, Featuring Kid Ink

Song Year: 2015

The song “Worth It” became a quick anthem for women's empowerment. It's about knowing your worth, understanding what you want, and confidently going after it.

The lyrics are sexually suggestive, speaking to the fact that the singers want a man who can give their all in a sexual scenario. However, you can apply the overall theme of getting what you want to many different scenarios.

“Love Me Like You Do” by Ellie Goulding

Song Year: 2015

Ellie Goulding is known for her sweet yet striking vocals, which go swimmingly with the passionate instrumentals in “Love Me Like You Do.”

The beat escalates over the first verse, reflecting the idea of building a connection between two people.

As Goulding continues to sing about physically and emotionally interacting with her lover, her voice gets more passionate until the booming chorus represents a climax.

“Lips Are Movin” by Meghan Trainor

Song Year: 2015

Meghan Trainor has some of the best songs from 2015 for people who love the combination of cheerful instrumentals and sassy, relatable lyrics.

The song ‘Lips Are Movin” is about a relationship gone sour. The narrator's partner has cheated on her but continues to keep trying to lie about it. She's not dumb, and she won't keep falling for their lies.

It's incredible that Meghan Trainor can write and sing about what may seem like a devastating situation but make it sound so happy and gleeful. It shows that you can't always control what happens, but you can control how you respond to it.

“Cool for the Summer” by Demi Lovato

Song Year: 2015

Demi Lovato's “Cool for the Summer” is a riveting hit that combines elements of pop, dance, and rock music into one “cool” track.

It's one of those songs that are perfect for listening to while cruising along the highway on a warm summer day or hanging out with your friends at a pool party.

Demi sings lyrics that convey confidence, sexiness, and power.

“Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)” by Silento

Song Year: 2015

Another song that blew up in the summer was the one that made everyone – and we mean everyone – do a fun dance where you throw your fisted hands from facing up to facing dance in a whipping fashion.

What made this song fun for dancing was that the primary dance was the Whip/Nae Nae, but the verses instructed listeners to a whole other list of relevant dances as well. This made the song great for parties, school functions, weddings, and everything in between.

“Back to Back” by Drake

Song Year: 2015

“Back to Back” was Drake's diss track against Meek Mill during their media-publicized feud. Meek Mill had commented about Drake using a ghostwriter and not writing enough of his lyrics, and Drake addressed those allegations head-on.

Usually, diss tracks aren't very popular hits, but the beat and lyrics of this song were so appreciated that many Drake fans played it just as much as his regular album songs at the time.

“Slow Motion” by Trey Songz

Song Year: 2015

Trey Songz is well-known for writing ultra-sexy hits that don't shy away from being exceptionally suggestive.

This song is all about taking your time in the bedroom, even when you have plans to do other things like go out to the club.

The storyline is quite intriguing because it paints the picture of choosing a lover's body and energy over any other plan you might've had because they are just that sexy and appealing. Not only that, but you're still choosing to take it slowly instead of feeling rushed to finish.

“Lean On” by Major Lazor and DJ Snake, Featuring MØ

Song Year: 2015

Although the video got some criticism due to its culturally appropriative themes and use of Indian dancers, with even the Danish singer MØ admitting to its cultural appropriation, the song “Lean On” was a huge hit for parties and clubs.

In any case, the song has a very upbeat vibe that's fun to dance to and lyrics that speak on the significance of leaning on other people and having a supportive community.

“How Deep Is Your Love” by Calvin Harris and Disciples

Song Year: 2015

Another huge party song from 2015 was “How Deep Is Your Love” by Calvin Harris, one of the most popular DJs and producers of all time.

To many people, good music from 2015 had to have an enticing beat that makes you want to get up and dance, and “How Deep Is Your Love” did just that. It's catchy while still feeling unique and energetic without feeling overwhelming.

These qualities make it a timeless piece that people still dance to today.

“I Don't F*ck With You” by Big Sean, Featuring E-40

Song Year: 2015

Big Sean is no stranger to bold lyrics, but I Don't F*ck With You is still one of his most explicit and daring hits. The reason it worked so well is that although vulgar, the lyrics resonated with many people.

Many of us have been so hurt and aggravated by someone, especially a romantic partner, that we've been very angry, annoyed, or indifferent about someone we used to love.

The beat is also catchy and easy to dance to, which always helps a song become a hit.

“The Wolf” by Mumford and Sons

Song Year: 2015

Mumford and Sons are one of the most popular folk-rock bands of all time and have been making hits for years.

Their 2015 track “The Wolf” is similar to some of their other hits with its uptempo instrumentals and passionate vocals.

The song is about trying to help and protect the people you know from straying away from their values and who they are. It reminds the listener of the people that they care for as well and speaks to the significance of true friendship.

“Truffle Butter” by Nicki Minaj, Featuring Drake and Lil Wayne

Song Year: 2015

In “Truffle Butter,” Nicki Minaj teams up with her Young Money companions Drake and Lil Wayne for a trendy hit.

They each have their own verse, where they demonstrate creativity, catchy punchlines, intriguing illustrations, and unique flows.

The beat is melodic and repetitive, only changing for a few bars between verses. This type of consistent beat is perfect for this type of song because it helps the listener pay attention to the lyrics and flow while maintaining a good dance-worthy beat.

“She Knows” by Ne-Yo

Song Year: 2015

The bass in “She Knows” stands out, making it an instant club hit. The song pays respects to both casual dancers and professional strippers, as does the video.

Anyone who knows they can dance and get loads of attention when they do it will have a lot of fun dancing to this song and singing along with the lyrics.

Juicy J's unique voice and hyped-up lyrics give this song an extra boost, making it even more perfect for the club scene in 2015.

“Kick the Dust Up” by Luke Bryan

Song Year: 2015

Luke Bryan is one of the most popular country-pop artists of all time, so it's no surprise that his song “Kick the Dust Up” makes the list of the best songs from 2015.

Like many country songs of the 2000s, elements of popular hip-hop songs are displayed within this song, such as lyrics suggesting the listeners act in certain ways – backing it up, filling their cup up, and tearing it up.

Of course, Bryan adds much country-like imagery to it, such as barns, cheap beers, and corn fields. Instead of tearing the club up like a hip-hop artist might suggest, they are kicking the dust up in the backcountry.

“Drag Me Down” by One Direction

Song Year: 2015

One Direction has had many top hits, but their fan-favorite in 2015 was none other than “Drag Me Down.” This hit highlights each of the boy band's talents, from catchy lyrics to great vocals and pumping instrumentals.

Listeners can easily understand the idea behind the song from just the chorus, which is about nobody being able to stop them from achieving what they want, especially when they have their special person by their side.

Love and support from a significant other can make all the difference in how confident and strong someone can feel.

“High By The Beach” by Lana Del Rey

Song Year: 2015

If you only listen to the chorus of “High By The Beach,” you may incorrectly assume it's a shallow song about doing drugs on vacation. But this song is so much deeper than that.

Like many of Lana Del Rey's greatest hits, it paints a complicated yet relatable picture of a relationship.

The narrator is seeking simplicity in life, but her relationship with this person has become overly complicated. The song speaks to the desire to start things on a fresh path.

“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson, Featuring Bruno Mars

Song Year: 2015

“Uptown Funk” is one of the best songs to dance to because it has a catchy, lively, cheerful, and funky beat.

It's challenging even for the shyest people to not at least bop their heads when “Uptown Funk” comes on, which is why it quickly became one of the biggest Billboard hits of the year.

The music video was almost equally as popular, with Bruno Mars showing off some of his best dance moves.

“Firestone” by Kygo

Song Year: 2015

Kygo's “Firestone” was an instant hit for tropical house and dance-pop lovers. It has an exceptionally catchy tune, with unique, high-pitched vocals to give it an extra appeal.

Given the dynamic instrumentals, the song is very versatile, and people can play it in many different environments.

It starts slow and builds to an eclectic, melodic, and riveting instrumental that's fun to dance to, sing along with, or just play while relaxing by the pool.

Top Songs From 2015, Final Thoughts

The best songs from 2015 were all about being cheerful and spirited, even when discussing harder issues. Instrumental buildups, high-pitched vocals, dance-worthy tunes, and sassy lyrics all played key roles in defining this year of music. So if you’re looking for some new songs to listen to, we hope this list has given you a few ideas.