2015 was certainly a good year for music in every genre, from indie to rap and even pop. Artists like Fetty Wap put their name out there while favorites like Adele and Justin Bieber proved they still have what it takes to stay on top. While it's hard to sum up every great song of the year, here's a few of the best to wrap up 2015.
1. "The Wolf" – Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons changed things up on their new album "Wilder Mind". While the album departs from banjos and a folk sound, the fun, electronic sound make songs like "The Wolf" everyone's favorite new go-to dance song. Accompanied by a candid Bonnaroo music video, "The Wolf" proves that Mumford & Sons can change things up while still catering to their loyal fan base.
2. "FourFiveSeconds"– Rihanna, Kanye West, Paul McCartney
While this song definitely wasn't "Bitch Better Have My Money" the cute duo between Rihanna and Kanye was still satisfying. Accompanied by McCartney strumming away on guitar, the song has down-to-earth lyrics about how we're all just working for the weekend.
3. "Hello"– Adele
Adele's new album "25" was easily one of the most anticipated albums of the year and it didn't disappoint. With a somber music video that reached record views on YouTube, fans were happy to say hello to new music by the British star.
4. "Magnets"– Disclosure feat. Lorde
Slightly different from hits such as "White Noise" and "You & Me" on Disclosure's prior album "Settle", "Magnets" gave off a cool, techno vibe and paired nicely with Lorde's beautifully familiar haunting vocals.
5. "Cool For The Summer"– Demi Lovato
Earlier this year people were sitting around wondering "where's my fun, pop summer anthem?" Luckily Lovato came through for us. A strong chorus, memorable piano theme, and flashy video make Demi Lovato's song the best anthem of its kind since Katy Perry's 2008 hit "I Kissed A Girl".
6. "Baby Blue"– Action Bronson feat. Chance the Rapper
Chance the Rapper and Action Bronson are like a match made in hip hop heaven on "Baby Blue". While the overall message is one of heartbreak and not being treated right, the scratchy yet smooth chorus, bright ending horn line, and Chance's list of sweet karma make the song perfect for anyone going through heartbreak or just trying to enjoy some good music.
7. "Crash and Burn"– Thomas Rhett
Country music fan or not, everyone can enjoys Thomas Rhett's catchy post-breakup song. Because we've all "let another lover crash and burn," Rhett's song is just as much relatable as it is fun. Someone make sure to tell Taylor Swift that this is how a country artist (correctly) does pop music.
8. "Dreams"– Beck
The only thing cooler than Beck's new song "Dreams" is the fact that the singer's still managed to see success after all these years. While this song is a long way from "Loser", it's fluid, pop vibe is reminiscent of tunes from other artists such as Charlie XCX and MGMT. Complete with a breakdown and cool guitar riffs thrown in here and there, Beck's "Dreams" proves he's still as talented as ever (whether Beyonce fans like it or not).
9. "The Hills"– The Weeknd
Saying that "The Hills" wasn't one of the year's best songs would be like saying people don't need oxygen to live– it's just absurd. As one of the best new artists of the year, The Weeknd knows how to create a sultry slow jam and then turn it around with a danceable favorite like "Can't Feel My Face".
10. "Pedestrian At Best"– Courtney Barnett
Stream of conscience lyrics, a garage-band rock sound, and Nirvana-esque guitar moments helped skyrocket Courtney Barnett's rock anthem to the top of the charts. It's as if L7 and Garbage got together and put out new music. Hopefully we can expect more from this Aussie rock princess in the near future.
11. "Feeling Electric"– Parade of Lights
Parade of Light's fun hit "Feeling Electric" is that song that you blast while cruising around with your friends on a Friday night. It's got an elevated chorus, smooth vocals, and a quintessential piano accompaniment-all element of a great song.
12. "Renegades"– X Ambassadors
X Ambassadors opened up to the music world this year with their acoustic song "Renegades", available on their debut album VHS. The song provides a feel good message and with multiple instrumental elements the listener is able to find something new every time they hear it.
13. "Hotline Bling"-Drake
It's hard to deny that "Hotline Bling" was one of 2015's most viral songs. A simple rhythmic backing and classic "sad boy" Drake lyrics make it a classic while Drake's interesting dancing makes the video unforgettable. Along with "Know Yourself" and other tracks from his album, If You're Reading This It's Too Late, Drake took over 2015.
14. "Sorry"-Justin Bieber
The second wave of Bieber fever is here. Little Justin Bieber is all grown up in his new song "Sorry". The track features multiple EDM elements and showcases the teen heartthrob's new, mature vocals. Even if you aren't a fan of the Biebs, "Sorry" is definitely something to hear.
15. "Trap Queen"-Fetty Wap
With tracks like "Come My Way" and "679", Fetty Wap made a name for himself in 2015. However, "Trap Queen" was the song that seemed to be his defining track. If you still aren't sure of its success, just put it on in a crowded room and see how long it takes for everyone to start singing along. We all just want to have a baby we can ride with and cook pies with.
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