Top 20 Songs That Should Be on Your Playlist

The Power of Music and Why It Matters

Music is more than just fun; it can make you feel better, help you get things done, and be there for you through good times and bad. It makes us feel things, helps us celebrate, and sometimes even makes us cry. A well-curated playlist can set the mood for your day, whether you’re working out, studying, driving, or just hanging out at home.

We’ve put together a list of 20 must-have songs from different genres, including pop, R&B, hip-hop, Afrobeats, and more, to help you enjoy your music more. All of these songs have been at the top of the charts, gone viral on social media, and gotten great reviews, so they are must-haves for any music lover’s playlist.

20 Must-Have Songs for Every Music Lover

“The Weeknd” by Blinding Lights

“Blinding Lights,” which came out in 2019, is one of the biggest hits of the past ten years. The Weeknd has made an anthem that is great for late-night drives, workouts, or dance floors. It has a high-energy synth-pop sound, a pulsing beat, and a nostalgic ’80s feel. The song is not only upbeat and happy, but it has also become a modern classic with over 3.5 billion streams on Spotify. It’s a great way to get your heart rate up and your mood up at the same time. Listen to it on Spotify.

Harry Styles’ “As It Was”

“As It Was” by Harry Styles, which came out in 2022, is a catchy and sad song about change and remembering the past. The dreamy synths and emotional lyrics make the perfect setting for quiet times of reflection. People can relate to the themes of personal growth in this song, which makes it a calming but upbeat addition to any playlist. It has been streamed more than 2 billion times on Spotify, which shows how popular the song is. You can listen on Spotify.

“Good Days” by SZA

Released in 2020, SZA’s “Good Days” has a dreamy sound that makes you think and reflect. The soulful singing and calm production make the perfect background for times of peace and self-reflection. This song perfectly captures complicated feelings, so it’s great for relaxing evenings or times when you want to unwind. Listen on Spotify.

Wizkid’s “Essence” (feat. Tems)

Since its release in 2020, Wizkid’s “Essence,” which features Tems, has taken the world by storm. This smooth mix of Afrobeats and R&B is not only catchy, but it also makes you feel happy like it’s summer. The song’s catchy beat makes it a popular choice for parties and other social events, where it shows off love and chill vibes. Many people can relate to this song, and it makes any playlist better. Spotify has it.

“Stay” by Justin Bieber and The Kid LAROI

“Stay” came out in 2021 and quickly became an anthem for many people. The catchy chorus that talks about love and dependence comes from the smooth mix of pop and hip-hop elements. The song is great for parties or driving because it has a lot of energy. This collaboration has also helped the artists stay relevant in the music scene. Check it out on Spotify.

Feel-Good and Upbeat Songs to Boost Your Mood

“Levitating” by Dua Lipa (with DaBaby)

Dua Lipa’s “Levitating,” which came out in 2020, is a great party song because it mixes pop and disco sounds in a way that makes you want to dance. DaBaby’s verse adds an extra layer of fun, making this song a must-have for any upbeat playlist. It captures the spirit of joy and celebration, so it’s great for dance floors and fun nights out. Listen on Spotify.

“Peaches” by Justin Bieber, featuring Daniel Caesar and Giveon

“Peaches,” which came out in 2021, has smooth vocals and a chill vibe, making it a great song for hanging out with friends or on lazy afternoons. This collaboration between Justin Bieber, Daniel Caesar, and Giveon makes a sound that perfectly captures the spirit of summer. People who want to relax and enjoy the moment love this song. Listen on Spotify.

Doja Cat (feat. SZA) sings “Kiss Me More.”

“Kiss Me More,” which came out in 2021, is a fun and catchy song that shows how well Doja Cat and SZA get along. It has flirty lyrics and a catchy hook that make it a fun addition to any playlist. This collaboration captures the spirit of modern pop music while still being interesting and relatable. Listen on Spotify.

“Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” — Lil Nas X

“Montero,” which came out in 2021, is a powerful song about celebrating who you are and accepting yourself. Lil Nas X has made a song that goes against the rules and speaks to a wide range of people. Its catchy tune and infectious beat have made it a cultural phenomenon that fans all over the world love. Listen to it on Spotify.

“Heat Waves” by Glass Animals

“Heat Waves” by Glass Animals, which came out in 2020, has an atmospheric mix of indie pop and lyrics that make you think. This song is great for long drives or lazy afternoons because it makes you think while still being fun. Its interesting sound has made it a favourite among music fans, and it is still a great song. Listen on Spotify.

Best Songs for Reflection and Relaxation

“driver’s licence” by Olivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo’s first big hit, “driver’s licence,” came out in 2021 and is a moving ballad about heartbreak and desire. The personal stories and strong vocals make this song really connect with people, making it a great choice for times when you need to think and be open. When this song came out, it got a lot of attention and praise. Listen on Spotify.

“Butter” by BTS

Their catchy hit “Butter,” which came out in 2021, is another example of how BTS is changing the face of pop music around the world. This song has catchy hooks and fast beats that make people want to dance and sing along. It’s a song that makes you happy and excited, so it’s a must-have for any feel-good playlist. Listen on Spotify.

“Rain on Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande

In 2020, Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande worked together to make “Rain on Me,” a happy song about being strong and together. This dance-pop song is perfect for parties and will lift your spirits even when things are tough. It’s a lively song that tells people to keep going, no matter what life throws at them. Listen to it on Spotify.

Camila Cabello’s “Don’t Go Yet”

Camila Cabello’s “Don’t Go Yet,” which came out in 2021, is the perfect summer song because of its catchy beat and happy mood. With Latin influences, this song shows off Cabello’s unique sound and energy. It’s a great song to add to your playlist for sunny days. Listen on Spotify.

“Cold Heart” by Elton John and Dua Lipa

“Cold Heart” is a groovy song that mixes old and new pop sounds. It features musical legends Elton John and Dua Lipa. Released in 2021, its catchy beat and spirit of collaboration make it a must-have for any music lover’s playlist. This song is a celebration of the best of both artists. Listen on Spotify.

“Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa

“Don’t Start Now,” another great song by Dua Lipa that came out in 2019, is an empowering anthem about moving on and being free. The disco-inspired sound, catchy beat, and strong lyrics will lift your spirits and make you want to dance, making it the perfect song for a fun night out. Listen on Spotify.

“Shivers” by Ed Sheeran

The upbeat tempo and romantic feel of Ed Sheeran’s “Shivers,” which came out in 2021, are very appealing. This song makes you want to sing and dance along, which shows how versatile Sheeran is as an artist. It’s a great addition to any playlist that needs some fun and energy. Listen on Spotify.

“Leave The Door Open” by Silk Sonic

“Leave the Door Open,” a song by Silk Sonic, the duo of Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, came out in 2021 and had a smooth feel. This sexy song is great for a romantic night or for relaxing after a long day. It shows how well the two work together and how good they are at music. Check it out on Spotify.

The Weeknd’s “Save Your Tears”

“Save Your Tears” by The Weeknd, another hit from his 2020 album, has a catchy and emotional story set to an upbeat beat. This song is great for dancing and makes you think about your past relationships. It has become a mainstay of modern pop music. Listen to it on Spotify.

“Butterflies” by MAX (with T-Pain)

MAX’s song “Butterflies,” which came out in 2021 and features T-Pain, perfectly captures the feelings of love and excitement. This song is a great addition to any playlist about love, joy, and celebration because it has so much energy and life. You can listen on Spotify.

Final Thoughts on Building the Perfect Playlist

This wide range of songs has something for everyone, whether you want to get pumped up for a workout, relax after a long day, or lift your spirits when you’re with friends. These songs will help you make the best playlist that shows not only the music that’s out right now, but also the different feelings and experiences that music brings into our lives. Have fun making your playlist!

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FAQs About Music Playlists

What makes a good playlist?

A good playlist blends songs with different moods and tempos while keeping a smooth flow that fits your activity or emotion.

How can I find new songs easily?

Use platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music that recommend songs based on what you already like.

Why do certain songs boost mood?

Songs with upbeat tempos, nostalgic lyrics, or familiar rhythms release dopamine, which can naturally elevate your mood.