2012’s Best Songs - A Top 10 List for Music Lovers

2012 was a year of great music, with many artists releasing hit songs that resonated with audiences across the world. From electronic pop to rock, R&B and country, there was something for everyone in the top 10 songs of the year. In this article, we will explore the 10 best songs of 2012 and what made them so popular.

One of the biggest trends of 2012 was the rise of electronic pop, with artists like Carly Rae Jepsen, Gotye, and fun. dominating the charts. At the same time, rock and alternative music also saw a surge in popularity, with bands like Imagine Dragons and The Lumineers making their mark. Urban and R&B music continued to evolve, with artists like Frank Ocean and Miguel pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds.

Overall, 2012 was a year of great music that reflected the diverse tastes and interests of audiences around the world. From catchy pop songs to soulful ballads and everything in between, the top 10 songs of 2012 were a testament to the power of music to bring people together and inspire them to sing, dance, and celebrate life.

Key Takeaways

2012 was a year of great music, with diverse genres and styles represented in the top 10 songs.
Electronic pop, rock, alternative, R&B, and country were among the most popular genres of the year.
The top 10 songs of 2012 reflected the diverse tastes and interests of audiences around the world, and showcased the power of music to bring people together.

The Rise of Electronic Pop

In 2012, electronic pop music took the world by storm, dominating the charts and becoming a staple at parties and clubs. The fusion of electronic beats and pop melodies created a unique sound that captured the hearts of fans around the globe. This section explores the rise of electronic pop, highlighting the chart-topping singles, iconic party anthems, breakthrough artists and collaborations, electronic dance music hits, and pop and electronic crossovers that defined the genre.

Chart-Topping Singles

2012 saw a plethora of chart-topping singles, with “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen taking the top spot on the UK Singles Chart. The song became a global phenomenon, with its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics resonating with fans of all ages. Other notable chart-toppers include “Titanium” by David Guetta featuring Sia, “Gangnam Style” by Psy, and “Sexy and I Know It” by LMFAO.

Iconic Party Anthems

Electronic pop music became synonymous with party anthems, with hits like “Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO and “We Are Young” by Fun. dominating dance floors around the world. These songs were characterized by their upbeat tempos, catchy hooks, and infectious energy, making them the perfect soundtrack for any celebration.

Breakthrough Artists and Collaborations

2012 was also a year of breakthrough artists and collaborations, with acts like Gotye featuring Kimbra with “Somebody That I Used To Know” and Fun. with “We Are Young” rising to fame. Electronic dance music heavyweights David Guetta and Calvin Harris also collaborated with artists like Rihanna on “Where Have You Been” and “We Found Love,” respectively. These collaborations helped to bridge the gap between electronic and pop music, creating a sound that was both fresh and exciting.

Electronic Dance Music Hits

Electronic dance music (EDM) continued to gain popularity in 2012, with hits like “Starships” by Nicki Minaj and “Domino” by Jessie J showcasing the genre’s versatility. These songs blended electronic beats with pop melodies, creating a sound that was both danceable and radio-friendly. David Guetta continued to dominate the EDM scene, with tracks like “Where Have You Been” and “Turn Me On” featuring Nicki Minaj.

Pop and Electronic Crossovers

The fusion of pop and electronic music became a defining characteristic of the genre in 2012. Artists like Ellie Goulding and Lights showcased their unique sound, blending electronic beats with ethereal vocals. These crossovers helped to broaden the appeal of electronic pop music, attracting fans from both genres.

Overall, 2012 was a groundbreaking year for electronic pop music, with chart-topping singles, iconic party anthems, breakthrough artists and collaborations, electronic dance music hits, and pop and electronic crossovers defining the sound of the year.

Rock and Alternative Surges

The year 2012 saw a surge in the popularity of rock and alternative music, with a number of mainstream and indie/folk-influenced songs making it to the top of the charts.

Mainstream Rock Successes

Rock music continued to dominate the mainstream charts in 2012, with bands like Train, Maroon 5, and The Lumineers scoring big hits with their catchy and upbeat singles. Train’s “Drive By” and Maroon 5’s “One More Night” were both huge successes, spending a combined 30 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Meanwhile, The Lumineers’ “Ho Hey” became an instant classic, with its upbeat folk sound and catchy chorus.

Indie and Folk Influences

Indie and folk-influenced music also had a strong presence in 2012, with bands like Mumford & Sons and Phillip Phillips gaining mainstream success with their unique sound. Mumford & Sons’ “I Will Wait” and “The Cave” both became instant classics, with their upbeat folk sound and catchy lyrics. Similarly, Phillip Phillips’ “Home” became a huge hit, with its uplifting lyrics and catchy melody.

Overall, 2012 was a great year for rock and alternative music, with a diverse range of artists and styles gaining mainstream success. Whether it was the catchy pop-rock of Train and Maroon 5 or the indie-folk sound of Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, there was something for everyone in 2012’s music scene.

Urban and R&B Evolution

The year 2012 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Urban and R&B music. The genre saw a surge in popularity, with many artists experimenting with new sounds and styles. In this section, we will explore some of the highlights of the year, including the rise of R&B and Hip-Hop crossovers and the emergence of rap collaborations.

R&B and Hip-Hop Crossovers

One of the defining features of 2012 was the blend of R&B and Hip-Hop sounds. This fusion was evident in the music of artists such as Usher, Kanye West, and Rihanna. Usher’s hit single “Climax” was a standout track that showcased the singer’s ability to blend R&B and electronic music. The song’s soaring vocals and pulsating beat made it an instant classic.

Kanye West was another artist who experimented with R&B sounds in 2012. His hit single “Mercy” featuring Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz was a prime example of this fusion. The song’s dark, brooding beat and catchy chorus made it a club favourite and cemented West’s status as one of the most innovative artists of the year.

Rap and Collaboration Highlights

Collaborations were also a huge part of the Urban and R&B scene in 2012. One of the most notable collaborations of the year was between Wiz Khalifa and Maroon 5 on the hit single “Payphone”. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it a chart-topper, and it remains a popular track to this day.

Jay-Z and Kanye West were another powerhouse duo that dominated the charts in 2012. Their collaboration on the hit single “N****s in Paris” was a standout track that showcased their lyrical prowess and ability to create infectious beats.

In conclusion, 2012 was a year of experimentation and innovation in the Urban and R&B scene. The fusion of R&B and Hip-Hop sounds, as well as the rise of collaborations, marked a new era in the genre’s evolution. With artists like Usher, Kanye West, and Jay-Z leading the charge, it was a year that will be remembered as a turning point in Urban and R&B music.

Country Crosses Over

In 2012, country music continued to expand its reach beyond its traditional roots, with many artists experimenting with new sounds and fusions. Here are a few of the standout country crossover tracks from that year.

Country-Pop Fusions

The most successful crossover hit of 2012 was undoubtedly Taylor Swift’s “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” from her album “Red”. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three weeks and also spent nine consecutive weeks at number one on the Hot Country Songs chart, a record-breaking run for a solo female singer. The track showcased Swift’s evolving sound, moving away from her earlier country roots towards a more pop-infused sound.

Another notable country-pop fusion from 2012 was Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away”. The song, which tells the story of a woman seeking revenge on her abusive father, was a commercial and critical success, earning Underwood a Grammy Award for Best Country Solo Performance.

Country Ballads and Upbeat Tracks

Country ballads have always been a staple of the genre, and 2012 was no exception. Luke Bryan’s “Drunk on You” was a standout, with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about falling in love. The song spent several weeks at the top of the Hot Country Songs chart and helped to solidify Bryan’s place as one of the genre’s most popular artists.

Other standout country ballads from 2012 included Miranda Lambert’s “Over You” and Eric Church’s “Springsteen”. Both tracks showcased the artists’ songwriting abilities and emotional depth, resonating with audiences across the country.

In addition to ballads, there were also plenty of upbeat country tracks that crossed over into the mainstream in 2012. Jason Aldean’s “Take a Little Ride” was a standout, with its driving beat and catchy chorus. The song spent several weeks at the top of the Hot Country Songs chart and helped to establish Aldean as a major force in the genre.

Overall, 2012 was a year of experimentation and growth for country music, with artists pushing the boundaries of the genre and exploring new sounds and fusions. Whether it was through country-pop fusions or heartfelt ballads, the best country tracks of 2012 showcased the genre’s versatility and enduring appeal.

Ballads and Love Songs

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2012 was a year of love and heartbreak, as evidenced by the many ballads and love songs that topped the charts. Here are some of the most memorable ones:

Romantic Hits

Adele’s “Someone Like You” was undoubtedly the ultimate love song of 2012. With Adele’s incredible range, listeners were able to feel all the ups and downs of being in love. Bruno Mars’ “Just The Way You Are” was another romantic hit that was popular in 2012. The song’s catchy melody and sweet lyrics made it a favourite among couples.

Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” was a love song with a twist. The song’s empowering lyrics and upbeat tempo made it a popular choice for those who had just been through a breakup. Pink’s “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” was another song that was both romantic and empowering. The song’s lyrics encouraged listeners to let go of toxic relationships and move on to something better.

Heartbreak and Empowerment Anthems

Heartbreak and empowerment were common themes in 2012’s ballads and love songs. Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” was not only a romantic hit but also an empowering anthem. The song’s lyrics encouraged listeners to be strong and move on from a failed relationship.

Pink’s “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” was another song that was both romantic and empowering. The song’s lyrics urged listeners to let go of a toxic relationship and find something better. Adele’s “Someone Like You” was a heartbreak anthem that resonated with many listeners. The song’s lyrics captured the pain of lost love and the hope of finding someone new.

Overall, 2012 was a year of love and heartbreak, as evidenced by the many ballads and love songs that topped the charts. Whether it was a romantic hit like “Just The Way You Are” or an empowering anthem like “Blow Me (One Last Kiss),” there was a song for everyone.

Year-End Charts and Awards

At the end of each year, various music charts and awards are released to highlight the most successful songs and artists of the year. In 2012, the most prominent charts were the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.

According to Billboard’s Year-End Hot 100 singles of 2012, the top five songs of the year were “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra, “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen, “We Are Young” by fun. featuring Janelle Monáe, “Payphone” by Maroon 5 featuring Wiz Khalifa, and “Lights” by Ellie Goulding.

The UK Singles Chart’s top five songs of 2012 were “Somebody That I Used to Know,” “Call Me Maybe,” “We Are Young,” “Titanium” by David Guetta featuring Sia, and “Gangnam Style” by Psy.

In addition to these charts, various music awards were also presented at the end of 2012. The American Music Awards, for example, named Justin Bieber as the Artist of the Year, while One Direction won the award for Favorite Pop/Rock Album. The Grammy Awards, which were held in February 2013, awarded the Record of the Year to “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra, and the Song of the Year to “We Are Young” by fun. featuring Janelle Monáe.

Overall, 2012 was a successful year for music, with many memorable songs and artists making their mark on the charts and in the industry.

Music Industry Changes

The music industry has undergone significant changes in the past decade, with the rise of digital sales and streaming leading the way. This shift has been driven by the increasing popularity of online music services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

Digital Sales and Streaming Growth

In 2012, digital sales and streaming were already on the rise, with many artists and labels embracing the new distribution model. This was reflected in the charts, with many of the year’s biggest hits being released digitally. According to Billboard, Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” was the best-selling digital single of the year, followed closely by Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know.”

The growth of digital sales and streaming has also led to changes in the way the charts are calculated. In 2012, the Billboard Hot 100 began incorporating data from digital downloads and streaming services into its rankings, reflecting the changing landscape of the music industry.

Social media has also played a significant role in the music industry’s evolution. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have provided artists with new ways to connect with fans and promote their music. In 2012, social media played a major role in the success of many songs, with viral videos and online memes helping to propel certain tracks up the charts.

One example of this was Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe,” which became a viral sensation thanks to a video featuring Justin Bieber and his friends lip-syncing to the song. The video quickly went viral, racking up millions of views on YouTube and helping to propel the song to the top of the charts.

Overall, the music industry has seen significant changes in the past decade, with digital sales and streaming leading the way. Social media has also played an important role in the industry’s evolution, providing artists with new ways to connect with fans and promote their music.

Notable Music Videos

In addition to their catchy tunes, some of the best songs of 2012 also had music videos that captured the attention of viewers around the world. Here are a few notable music videos from that year:

“Gangnam Style” by Psy: This South Korean rapper’s music video for “Gangnam Style” became a worldwide sensation, with its quirky dance moves and colourful visuals. It quickly became the most-watched video on YouTube at the time, and has since amassed over 3 billion views.
“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” by Taylor Swift: This music video features Taylor Swift in a series of quirky outfits, singing about a past relationship. The video has a playful, whimsical feel, with colourful graphics and a fun, upbeat vibe.
“Diamonds” by Rihanna: This music video for Rihanna’s hit song “Diamonds” features the singer in a variety of settings, from a desert landscape to an underwater scene. The video has a dreamy, ethereal quality, with slow-motion shots and moody lighting.

Overall, these music videos helped to elevate the songs they accompanied, and became memorable pop culture moments in their own right.

Global Music Events and Live Performances

2012 was a great year for live music performances. Many music stars performed in front of thousands of fans worldwide. One of the most notable live performances was by David Guetta, who played at the London Olympics Closing Ceremony. He performed his hit song “Titanium” featuring Sia, which was a major hit in 2012. The song was a perfect fit for the event, and the performance was a huge success.

Another notable live performance in 2012 was by Jessie J, who performed her hit song “Domino” at the MTV Video Music Awards. The performance was full of energy and had the audience on their feet. Jessie J’s powerful vocals and stage presence made the performance unforgettable.

In addition to these two performances, there were many other live music events in 2012 that were worth mentioning. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held in California, featured many popular artists, including Radiohead, The Black Keys, and Dr. Dre.

Overall, 2012 was a great year for live music events and performances. Fans were treated to some amazing performances by some of the biggest names in music.

Legacy of 2012 Hits

The year 2012 was a significant year in the music industry, with several hit songs that have left a lasting legacy. These songs were ranked based on their popularity, sales, and chart performance. The top 10 singles of 2012 were dominated by pop and dance music, with several artists making their breakthrough in the industry.

One of the most significant achievements of 2012 was the dominance of digital sales, with more than 5.6 million downloads sold in the final sales week of the year. This trend has continued to shape the music industry, with digital sales accounting for a significant portion of music sales.

The Billboard Hot 100 chart was the most prominent chart in 2012, with several songs making it to the top 10. “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra was the best-selling single of the year in the UK, spending five weeks at number one and lasting 18 weeks in the top 10. Other notable songs that made it to the top 10 include “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen, “We Are Young” by Fun featuring Janelle Monae, and “Payphone” by Maroon 5 featuring Wiz Khalifa.

The legacy of these hits has been felt in the music industry to this day, with several artists citing them as inspirations for their work. The songs have also shaped the direction of pop and dance music, with several artists adopting similar styles and sounds.

Overall, the top 10 singles of 2012 have left a lasting legacy in the music industry, shaping the sound and direction of pop and dance music. These songs continue to inspire and influence artists to this day, cementing their place in music history.

Conclusion

The year 2012 was a great year for music, and the top 10 songs of that year were a testament to that. These songs were the ones that dominated the airwaves and the charts, and they are still remembered and loved by many today.

The list of the top 10 songs of 2012 included some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Carly Rae Jepsen, Gotye, and Rihanna. These artists showcased their talent and creativity through their music, and it was evident in the success of their songs.

The songs on this list were diverse in genre and style, ranging from pop to hip-hop to electronic dance music. Each song had its unique sound and message, but they all shared one thing in common: they were all unforgettable.

Overall, the top 10 songs of 2012 were a reflection of the times, capturing the emotions and experiences of the people who listened to them. Whether it was the catchy hook of “Call Me Maybe” or the soulful vocals of “Somebody That I Used to Know,” these songs had a way of connecting with listeners on a deep level.

In conclusion, the top 10 songs of 2012 were a testament to the power of music to move and inspire people. They were a reflection of the times and a celebration of the artists who created them. Today, they continue to be beloved by music fans all over the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which tracks were the top 10 hits of 2012?

According to The Guardian, the top 10 hits of 2012 were:

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe
Usher – Climax
Plan B – Ill Manors
Jessie Ware – 110%
Taylor Swift – We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together
Jai Paul – Jasmine
Frank Ocean – Pyramids
Grimes – Oblivion
Alt-J – Breezeblocks
Miguel – Adorn

What was the most played song in the UK during 2012?

According to Official Charts, the most played song in the UK during 2012 was “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra.

Which single claimed the number one spot in the UK charts in 2012?

According to Wikipedia, the single that claimed the number one spot in the UK charts in 2012 was “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra.

What were some standout songs released in October 2012 in the UK?

Unfortunately, the search results do not provide a relevant answer to this question.

Which song received the title of ‘Song of the Year’ in 2012?

According to Billboard, “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye featuring Kimbra received the title of ‘Song of the Year’ in 2012.

What are some of the best songs from 2011 that remained popular into 2012?