We have compiled a list of the best songs of 2018, and with so many amazing songs released throughout an entire year, it was no doubt a challenge to come up with only 20. These songs are the ones that were most impactful to people and defined the year.
- “Tequila” by Dan + Shay
Dan + Shay’s “Tequila” is a massive song that soars sky high as it quite literally takes you on a journey and paints a vivid picture of a memory full of nostalgia.
2. “Shallow” by Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper
Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s “Shallow” is a song with a chorus that will send chills throughout your body, and it’s one of the most powerful ballads in a while.
3. “thank u, next” by Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande takes back the reigns on “thank u, next” as she rewrites the narrative with a song that isn’t about throwing shade but instead learning to love yourself.
4. “In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes
“In My Blood” is a powerfully emotional and raw song that will fill a stadium and marked Shawn Mendes’ growth into the incredible artist that he is.
5. “I Like It” by Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin
Cardi B holds the title for Song of the Summer 2018 with “I Like It” with Bad Bunny and J Balvin thanks to its booming beats and Latin-infused vibe.
6. “Cry Pretty” by Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s “Cry Pretty” proves that everyone is going through something and has to have a good ugly cry every now and then.
7. “The Middle” by Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey
Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey came together from different music worlds to craft “The Middle,” one of the best crossover songs this year.
8. “Better Now” by Post Malone
On an album filled with hits, it’s hard to stand out, but “Better Now” manages with its catchy hook and Post Malone’s rugged vocals.
9. “Meant to Be” by Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line
Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line’s “Meant to Be” has unquestionably been one of the biggest songs of the year uniting forces from the pop and country worlds for a monster of a song.
10. “Eastside” by benny blanco, Halsey & Khalid
Benny Blanco’s debut single “Eastside” with Khalid and Halsey was a hit right out the gate with its bittersweet, back-and-forth lyrics.
11. “SICKO MODE” by Travis Scott (feat. Drake, Swae Lee, & Sheck Wes)
“SICKO MODE” was bound to be a hit from Travis Scott with Drake and Swae Lee featured, but the song is an undeniable banger.
12. “”Sunflower” by Post Malone & Swae Lee
Post Malone’s rough edge and Swae Lee’s smooth voice compliment each other on “Sunflower” over one of the most chill beats ever.
13. “Never Be The Same” by Camila Cabello
Camila Cabello sounds entirely confident on “Never Be The Same” as she slid right into her own sound with its pounding drums and sultry production.
14. “Nice For What” by Drake
“Nice For What” is the type of song that you have to move to with its New Orleans influence, bounce-infusion, and Lauryn Hill sample.
15. “Lonely Weekend” by Kacey Musgraves
Kacey Musgraves’ “Lonely Weekend” speaks to something that everyone can unfortunately relate to about learning to enjoy your own company.
16. “High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco
“High Hopes” will repeatedly boost you with confidence that you can do whatever you want with its triumphant lyrics and optimistic energy.
17. “APES**T” by THE CARTERS
Beyoncé & JAY-Z – collectively THE CARTERS – are a confident unified force on “APES**T” with its high energy production and their flawless delivery of its lyrics.
18. “This Is America” by Childish Gambino
“This Is America” by Childish Gambino is a melting pot of styles that contrast between its catchy melodies and dark trap beats.
19. “The Distance” by Mariah Carey (feat. Ty Dolla $ign)
Mariah Carey teamed up with Ty Dolla $ign for their synth-driven collaboration, “The Distance,” that is modern while maintaining that classic Mariah style.
20. “Drowns the Whiskey” by Jason Aldean (feat. Miranda Lambert)
“Drowns the Whiskey” brings together two of the biggest names in country music – Jason Aldean and Miranda Lambert – for a song about the pain of heartache.