By Lyka Peng, G10
Sometimes, we need a break from the present to go back in time and revisit our childhoods. This could be in the form of anything– maybe a favorite movie, or book. Some of us do so by listening to music that brings back memories and nostalgia.
Here are 35 throwback tracks for you to go back 10 years before the stress of summatives (and for some of us, E-Learning). Guaranteed, this will be pretty much a cure for anything. So sit back, relax, and put these songs on full blast.
POP:
- (2002) Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton:
This song brought a whole new level to the 2000s music era. It is soft and bubbly, yet has influences of rock, juxtaposing heavy drums with the iconic piano line.
- (2012) Kiss You – One Direction:
Hate them or love them, you can’t deny that they are one of the most iconic boy bands of 2010 (or possibly of all time). This song screams ‘boy band’ with the funky guitars and catchy chorus.
- (2009) TiK ToK – Kesha:
Autotune is probably one of the biggest no-nos in the music industry, but Kesha uses it to add more dimension to this song. It is electronic and spunky, one of everyone’s party go tos.
- (2010) Teenage Dream – Katy Perry:
Everyone probably had some form of a Katy Perry phase when they were younger. This song is upbeat and fun, with a slight retro sound as well with the strum and guitar.
- (2012) We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together – Taylor Swift:
Taylor Swift is one of the most famous singer/songwriters of our generation. She’s evolved from her country roots and broke (or repaired, whatever) our hearts with this 2010s pop classic.
- (2012) Want U Back – Cher Lloyd:
Every time this song comes on, you will immediately feel the urge to get up on your feet and dance. This song is upbeat and the definition of pop, sassy and catchy in all the right places.
- (2009) Fireflies – Owl City:
Fireflies was definitely a song that was ahead of its time. With a fully electric sound and lyrics that are just as brand new, this song explores our imagination and takes us to a futuristic world.
- (2010) Dynamite – Taio Cruz:
One of the most dance-y, feel good songs to ever exist. The combination of Hip Hop and electronic sounds is what makes this song so iconic to the era.
- (2003) Toxic – Britney Spears:
Britney Spears was the epitome of the 2000s, making songs that are defined her femme fatale persona. Catchy, fun, and sultry, this hit song is still playing frequently to this day.
- (2009) Party In The USA – Miley Cyrus:
This is the type of song that transports you to places that you’ve never been. It makes you want to roll your windows down and sing to your heart’s content with the nostalgic sound.
R&B:
- (2006) So Sick – Ne-Yo:
When asked ‘name an R&B song’, this would probably be the first song that most people would say. This song really fits into its genre, with the hip hop influenced beats and smooth vocals.
- (2007) Irreplaceable – Beyonce:
One of the most iconic R&B songs, as well as one of the most iconic Beyonce songs. It’s softer than most songs in the genre, but still perfectly fits with the beat and chord progression.
- (2004) My Boo – Usher (feat. Alicia Keys):
This song is a collaboration between two of the biggest names in R&B. With the sultry vocals in combination with the hip hop beats, it is a perfect match made in heaven.
- (2005) We Belong Together – Mariah Carey:
This song walks the line between soulful R&B and a ballad– easy to listen if you’re new to the genre. Mariah Carey’s vocals are undeniably smooth and gorgeous, as always.
- (2002) Dilemma – Nelly (feat. Kelly Rowland):
You’ve probably heard this song on the radio before, and could not pinpoint exactly what the title is (and now you know). This is an iconic song, known for pairing melodious singing with rap.
ROCK/PUNK:
- (2006) Welcome to the Black Parade – My Chemical Romance:
One of the songs that shaped the 2000s rock and roll scene, as well as the rest of us. You’ve probably listened to this song at least 10 times, and cried to it more than that.
- (2012) Everybody Talks – Neon Trees:
Spunky, rebellious, and teenage angst all compiled into a song that barely reaches the standard 3 minutes. This song makes you want to sing your heart out, and we recommend doing so.
- (2004) Mr Brightside – The Killers:
One of the most popular rock songs of all time, and most of us probably know the lyrics to it. It’s composed of heavy drums and vocals that are strong yet surprisingly heartfelt at the same time.
- (2005) I Write Sins Not Tragedies – Panic! At the Disco:
This song is iconic, especially for its catchy lyrics and an upbeat yet villainous, dark tone to it’s sound. We’ve moved onto other bands, but Panic! at the Disco will forever remain in our hearts.
- (2005) Sugar, We’re Going Down – Fall Out Boy:
Catchy, angsty, and fun, this still remains one of our all time favourite Fall Out Boy songs. With the aggressive drumline and guitar, it truly defines the signature sound of the punk rock genre.
BALLAD/SLOW SONGS:
- (2012) Stay – Rihanna (feat. Mikky Ekko):
Accompanied with only a melancholy piano arrangement, this song is incredibly emotional and heartfelt combined with Rihanna and Mikky Ekko’s vocals.
- (2011) Turning Tables – Adele:
Another piano ballad that completely sweeps you off your feet. It hits you with such a beautiful soulful, and heartbreaking sound, remaining one of my favorite Adele songs.
- (2011) Kiss Me – Ed Sheeran:
This song has an acoustic feel, allowing more intimacy with the instrumental and vocals. Ed Sheeran has a knack for making songs that makes you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.
- (2012) I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz:
Another song that has an acoustic feel, paired with Jason Mraz’ raw and genuine vocals. Besides ‘I’m Yours’ or ‘Lucky’, this song shines even if it doesn’t get as much recognition.
- (2014) Try – Colbie Caillat:
Try is one of those songs that immediately puts you in an emotional mood. The vocals, lyrics, and melody makes the song so much more meaningful and heartfelt.
K-POP:
- (2010) Hello – SHINee:
This song was many people’s first gateway and introduction to K-Pop. It has influences of Western Hip-Hop and Pop, whilst still sounding fresh and preppy.
- (2010) Gee – Girls Generation:
One of the most iconic K-Pop songs from the most iconic K-Pop girl group to ever exist. If you’ve lived in Cambodia for a while, you will remember this song playing 24/7 on television.
- (2011) I Am the Best – 2NE1:
This song perfectly portrays 2NE1’s edgy and rough image, with the hip hop influenced beats and electronic melody mixed with the combination of rap and vocals.
- (2013) Growl – EXO:
When EXO made their comeback with Growl, fans around the world fell in love with the song. With their powerhouse vocals mixed with a funky sound, you’re bound to like it too.
- (2010) I Need A Girl – Taeyang:
Perhaps one of the most iconic solo songs in the K-Pop music industry, combining soft, romantic notes with hip hop influenced beats. Taeyang’s voice is simply one not hard to miss.
