Do you remember plugging your headphones into your iPod and settling into the backseat of a car before a long road trip? Man, times used to be so simple.
Listening to the music of the past is a great way to "time travel", and re-experience old memories and moments. And when listening to our playlists, you'd be surprised how many old classic songs you forgot even existed.
As we get older, our taste in music changes, but that doesn't mean we can't still enjoy the classics from our childhood and teenage years.
And honestly, there's something about a throwback song that just makes you feel good. Here are some of the very best throwback songs from each genre that will take you back in time. Enjoy!
Our Throwback Playlists
We have multiple throwback playlists tailored to various genres. Let's begin with our ultimate collection of good throwback songs from every genre.
Throwback Bangers
Leaving no stone unturned, we have compiled over 1500 songs, only the best music prior to 2015, with music from all genres. Pop, Rap, R&B, Rock, EDM, you name it.
We have the hits from the 80s, 90s, 2000's and early 2010s. We also have the songs you forgot about which got radio play back in the day.
Listen to our Throwback Bangers playlist to rediscover all of your favorite songs of the past!
2000s White Girl Songs
Pop music used to hit... different. The unique melodies and styles from the early 2000s are rarely replicated anymore nowadays.
That's why this collection of over 200 pop songs from 2000 - 2014 is so special. With so many ionic songs of the 2000s, this playlist features tracks from Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Kesha, Taylor Swift, Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, and Destiny's Child... among many others!
Listen to our 2000s White Girl Songs playlist to rediscover your favorite pop songs of the past!
Classic Rock
Classic Rock was once the dominate genre of popular music. Bands like Aerosmith, Fall Out Boy, and Nickelback defined a generation with their hard-hitting sound and rebellious attitude.
However, by the late 1990s, classic rock had begun to fall out of favor with the mainstream modern versions of Pop Punk. However, some of our favorite throwback songs can be found from this once dominant genre of music.
Listen to our Classic Rock playlist to rediscover your favorite rock songs of the past!
Rap Throwback Songs
In the early 2000s, hip hop began to gain prominence and grow rapidly in popularity, gaining mainstream appeal. This was due in part to the success of artists like Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Jay Z, Kanye West, and of course many others.
In addition, the rise of social media made it easier for fans to connect with each other and share music. As a result, hip hop quickly became one of the most popular genres of music in the world.
The genre has shifted and broken into various subgenres with drill rap, crunk music, melodic rap, among others. However, the raw style and energy found in an older rap song is rarely duplicated with current tracks.
Listen to our Rap Throwback playlist to rediscover the best hip hop songs of the past!
Highlighting some of our Favorite Old School Tracks:
We hope our meticulously handcrafted playlists of throwback music deliver in quality. Now, let's further examine some of biggest hits of the 200s in each genre.
We will take a look at five iconic songs alongside some less known throwbacks. (Yet equally great!) Let's dive right in.
Rap Songs:
Hit 'Em Up by 2Pac
Let's begin by going all the way back to 1998, and honoring Tupac Amaru Shakur.
When it comes to rap music, there are few artists who can match the sheer intensity of 2Pac, one of the most influential artists of the time.
On Hit 'Em Up, 2Pac certainly brings that intensity in a diss track aimed at his former friends and collaborators, the East Coast-based rap group known as the Outsiders.
Over a thumping beat, 2Pac delivers lines with a venomous delivery, accusing the Outsiders of betraying him and stealing his music. But what makes the song truly great is its refusal to back down from its fighting words. Rest in Peace to this legend.
Underrated 2Pac tracks you should also listen to: Baby Don't Cry & Hellrazor
In Da Club by 50 Cent
A staple in rotations of club music everywhere, 50 Cent's "In Da Club" is a song with both a memorizing instrumental and catchy lyrics. This huge hit has over a billion streams. I mean, wow.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is going to the club to celebrate his birthday, and they are full of references to popular culture, mentioned 2Pac and Eminem among others.
However, there is also a deeper meaning to the lyrics. They can be interpreted as being about how materialism and greed can lead to emptiness and loneliness. In this way, "In Da Club" is both a fun party song for the dance floor, and also a thoughtful commentary on society.
Underrated 50 Cent tracks you should also listen to: Back Down & I'll Still Kill
The Way I Are by Timbaland (Feat. Keri Hilson & D.O.E)
Timbaland as a producer is undeniably one of the greatest in the genre. His worldwide hit The Way I Are was no exception, as the elite instrumental propelled this song into a worldwide hit.
I remember playing NBA Live 2008 and losing my mind every time this song came on. The beat is infectious and the lyrics are simple but effective.
The song is about being confident and comfortable in your own skin, no matter what others think. It is a great anthem for anyone who has ever felt self-conscious or out of place.
The lyrics encourage listeners to "just be yourself" and "let your hair down." The Way I Are is a feel-good song that will make you want to get up and dance, no matter where you are or who you are with.
Underrated Timbaland tracks you should also listen to: Know Bout Me & Come and Get Me
Run This Town by Jay-Z (feat. Kanye West & Rihanna)
Next, we'll show some love to the Grammy nominated song, Run This Town. Jay-Z and Kanye West provide great lyricism, boasting various flows and punchlines. And, of course, Rihanna is no stranger to providing soaring vocals in a catchy chorus, as she did so often on some fan favorite hip hop classics.
The song starts with a drum beat that gets faster as the verse goes on, representing the adrenaline rush of taking risks. Run This Town is an boastful, upbeat song that encourages listeners to live their lives to the fullest.
Underrated Jay-Z tracks you should also listen to: HAM & Moment of Clarity
Black and Yellow by Wiz Khalifa
Moving to the early 2010s, Rolling Papers was one of my favorite albums to listen to while playing Call of Duty, and it still maintains that replay value today, a decade later.
Most notably from the album, Black and Yellow is one of the catchiest songs of the past decade. It's a pop influence can be heard in it's catchy hook.
The Grammy nominated song was released in early 2010, and it quickly became a smash hit, reaching the top of the charts in various countries. The song is an ode to Khalifa's hometown of Pittsburgh, and it features a catchy hook and some great wordplay. The lyrics are also surprisingly deep, discussing themes of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Oh and lasty, the remix, or the "G-Mix", featuring Juicy J, Snoop Dogg, and T-Pain is also a masterpiece.
Underrated Wiz tracks you should also listen to: Say Yeah & This Plane
Honorable Mentions:
We promised we'd shine light on some underrated Rap Songs of the 2000s, and that's what we will end with here.
For each iconic song listed above, we also made sure to include two other tracks with less attention that we would recommend you check out from each superstar.
However, let's explore a few underplayed BANGERS. Prepare to nod your head to the beat...
I Like That by Houston (feat. Chingy, Nate Dogg, & I-20)
Ain't I by Yung L.A. (feat Young Dro & T.I.)
Ridin' Rims by Dem Franchize Boys
That's Right by Three 6 Mafia (feat. Akon)
Face Down by Mustard (feat. Lil Wayne, Big Sean, YG, & Boosie Badazz)
Get Buck In Here by DJ Felli Fel (feat. Diddy, Ludacris, Akon, & Lil Jon)
Numb by August Alsina (feat. B.o.B. & Yo Gotti)
Get the Feeling by The D.E.Y.
Get Like Me by David Banner (feat. Chris Brown & Yung Joc)
Set It Off by Boosie Badazz
To hear all of these old school rap songs and more, check out our throwback rap songs playlist by clicking here.
Summary:
Whew, ok that was a lot of music. We hope you found your new favorite old hip-hop song, or were at least amused to hear a few nostalgic banger songs.
Next up, let's examine some of the best throwback songs in the pop genre.
Pop Songs:
Hot N Cold by Katy Perry
Off of her debut album One Of The Boys, her 2008 hit "Hot N Cold," Katy Perry sings about the contradictory behavior of a former lover. One moment he's hot, the next he's cold; one moment he's yes, the next he's no.
Yes, quite literally, lol.
With an album track list that impressively rivals her other two classic albums Teenage Dream (2010 - second studio album) and PRISM (2013 - third studio album), Katy Perry just has a knack for producing a massive hit.
Hot N Cold is her second ever released song, following her debut single Ur So Gay. Hot N Cold captures the feeling of chilly indifference in a somewhat toxic relationship.
This may not be one of those 2000s songs you forgot about, as the official music video has over a billion views. Looking past the lyrics, this track is one of those songs to jam to whenever, wherever. Hot N Cold is a timeless pop song, that fits neatly into some of the iconic songs of the 2000s.
Underrated Katy Perry tracks you should also listen to: Waking Up In Vegas & Not Like The Movies
The Sweet Escape by Gwen Stefani (Feat. Akon)
The Sweet Escape was released in December 2006 as the second single from Stefani's second studio album, with the same title, The Sweet Escape (2006). Gwen Stefani already put her fingerprint all over the pop genre with hits like Hollaback Girl and Rich Girl in her debut album, but The Sweet Escape even further launched her into stardom.
The song entered the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and peaked at number three, becoming Stefani's second top-ten single as a solo artist and her first since "Rich Girl" (2004). It was also nominated for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Female at the 50th Grammy Awards.
The Sweet Escape talks about a relationship that ended suddenly and unexpectedly. Stefani is trying to find her way back to her love, but she knows it's going to be difficult. Akon's verse compares the situation to being in prison. Despite the challenges, Gwen Stefani is determined to make the sweet escape and get back to her love.
The song is catchy and upbeat, with a simple but effective hook. The production is fresh and uncomplicated, with a great use of space. Overall, The Sweet Escape is a fun pop song with a great message about never giving up on love.
Underrated Gwen Stefani tracks you should also listen to: 4 In The Morning & Cool
One Time by Justin Bieber
Well here I am, writing about Justin Bieber. Funny enough, the first time I heard this song was on at a basketball summer camp, and I thought it was a girl singing the vocals. It took a second listen to the lyrics to realize it was a boy singing the song. Who cares if it was a trend to hate on Justin Bieber in the early 2010s, I can still acknowledge this is a great song.
Anyways, One Time was released as the lead single from Bieber's debut album, My World, on May 18, 2009. The song received mixed reviews from music critics, who praised its production but criticized its lyrical content.
Commercially, the song peaked at number seventeen on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and number twelve on the Canadian Hot 100 chart. The official music video for the song was directed by Colin Tilley and features Bieber singing and dancing in various locations in Miami, Florida.
As of September 2015, the song had sold over 750,000 copies in the United States alone. In April of 2020 while in self-isolation due to Covid-19, Justin Bieber uploaded an at-home performance of "One Time" to Instagram live. This performance included a new arrangement with piano accompaniment. This nostalgic callback to his debut album brought joy to fans old and new during the difficult early pandemic times.
Even though our worlds look different now than they did when the album first came out, it's nice to know that some things never change - like Justin Bieber's ability to make great music.
Underrated Justin Bieber tracks you should also listen to: Baby Don't Cry & Hellrazor
Just Dance by Lady Gaga (feat. Colby O'Donis)
One of the defining songs of the late 2000s, Just Dance by Lady Gaga was an instant smash hit upon its release in 2008. The catchy synth-pop tune propelled Gaga to superstardom and helped to launch a new wave of fun dance music.
Featuring a simple yet effective hook, the song is great at getting people up on their feet and moving. Whether you're at a club or just dancing around your living room, the song is sure to get you moving.
And with its positive message of self-acceptance and embrace of individuality, "Just Dance" is also an empowering anthem for anyone who feels like they're running out of steam.
Old Gaga music hits different, as her albums The Fame Monster & Born This Way feature some of the best pop songs from 2000 - the mid 2010s.
Underrated Lady Gaga tracks you should also listen to: Right Here & What's Hatnin'
TiK ToK by Kesha
Last, but certainly not least, let's give some props to a pop culture icon Kesha.
Kesha's song TiK ToK is a pop anthem for the ages. It's catchy, it's fun, and it encourages listeners to let loose and enjoy themselves. The production is top-notch, with a thumping beat that will get you moving.
The song's message is simple but powerful: don't worry about what other people think, just dance and have a good time. (Seeing the common theme in these 2000s pop songs yet?)
Underrated Kesha tracks you should also listen to: Dancing With Tears In My Eyes & Blind
Honorable Mentions:
We promised we'd shine light on some underrated Pop Songs of the 2000s, and that's what we will end with here.
For each iconic song listed above, we also made sure to include two other tracks with less attention that we would recommend you check out from each superstar.
However, let's explore a few underplayed pop BANGERS. Prepare to dance with these jamming songs...
Something To Dance For by Zendaya
Poison by Nicole Scherzinger
Already Gone by Kelly Clarkson
Pretty Girls by Iyaz (feat. Travie McCoy)
Tell Me Something I Don't Know by Selena Gomez & The Scene
Run This Town by Lucy Hale
Stuttering by Fefe Dobson
If I Had You by Adam Lambert
Shake It Up by Selena Gomez
Hold It Against Me by Britney Spears
To hear all of these classic old pop songs and even more, check out our throwback pop songs playlist by clicking here.
Summary:
Ok, let's take another quick breather. We hope you found one of your new favorite pop songs from 2000, or were at least happy to hear a nostalgic pop song people forgot about.
Next up, let's examine some of the best throwback songs in the rock genre.
Classic Rock Songs:
Its My Life by Bon Jovi
It's My Life is a song that has resonated with people of all ages since it was released in 2000. The lyrics are empowering and reflect a positive outlook on life, which is something we can all benefit from.
The song is also catchy and easy to sing along to, making it a great anthem for living your best life. It's My Life is a reminder that we should seize the day and make the most of every opportunity. It's a feel-good song that puts a smile on your face and makes you want to dance.
Use Somebody by Kings of Leon
Use Somebody is a song by American rock band Kings of Leon. It was released in 2008 as the second single from their album Only by the Night. Although often overshadowed by the smash hit Sex on Fire, which is on the same album, Use Somebody did receive its fair share of positive reviews from music critics and won three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. The song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2009 and has sold over five million copies in the United States.
The song is about lead singer Caleb Followill's experience of meeting and falling in love with a woman he met at a music festival. The lyrics were originally written to discuss the topics of loneliness and longing for companionship.
"Use Somebody" has been covered by numerous artists, including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Bon Jovi. The song has also been used in television shows, movies, and commercials. A certified classic, period.
Somebody Told Me by The Killers
Somebody Told Me is a song by American rock band The Killers. It was released as the second single from their 2004 debut album Hot Fuss. Similar to Use Somebody, Somebody Told Me is not the most popular on the project, as Mr. Brightside has certified itself as one of the biggest classic rock hits ever.
According to leader singer Brandon Flowers, Somebody Told Me was inspired when he overhead two guys talking about a woman they both had slept with. The guitar solo is performed by former Thin Lizzy guitarist Snowy White.
The official music video for "Somebody Told Me" has over 200 million views, and was directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino. It features the band performing in front of transparent screens on which images are projected. These include shots of a young couple undressing in a bedroom and footage of bombs exploding.
The song has been used extensively in popular culture including appearances in films such as Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Ted 2; television shows such as CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Glee, How I Met Your Mother, and many more.
Don't You Want Me by The Human League
Don't You Want Me by The Human League is a song that has stood the test of time. It was released in 1981 (yeah, its old) and went on to become one of the biggest hits of the decade.
The song is about a relationship that has run its course, and the man is trying to convince the woman to stay with him. However, the woman is not convinced, and she ultimately leaves him. The song is a great example of how relationships can change over time, and how sometimes we need to let go of what we want in order to be happy.
The official music video for the song was released later in 2009. This is one of the best songs of the 80s, without question, helping to pioneer a new sound of music.
You Give Love A Bad Name by Bon Jovi
Released in 1986, "You Give Love a Bad Name" is one of Bon Jovi's most iconic and popular songs. The song tells the story of a man who has been burned by love, and it resonated with many listeners who had experienced similar heartbreak.
The lyrics are full of anger and frustration, but they're also ultimately hopeful, as the narrator pledges to "never fall in love again." The song's catchy melody and memorable chorus have helped to make it one of Bon Jovi's most enduring hits, and it remains a staple of their live performances to this day.
Honorable Mentions:
Lastly, let's explore a few underplayed BANGERS. Prepare to long for an older time...
No Surprise by Daughtry
All Downhill From Here by New Found Glory
In Too Far by Acceptance
Monsters by Matchbook Romance
All In by Lifehouse
Bright Lights by Matchbox Twenty
Where I Belong by Simple Plan & State Champs (feat. We The Kings)
Sober by Bad Wolves
Ali In The Jungle by The Hours
Open Your Eyes by Snow Patrol
To hear all of these old school classic rock songs and more, check out our classic rock music playlist by clicking here.
Summary:
Almost through it all! We hope you found your new favorite classic rock song, or enjoyed the trip down memory lane.
Lastly up, let's take quick peek at some of the best throwback songs in the EDM genre.
EDM Songs:
Electronic Dance Music, or EDM, has become one of the most popular genres of music in recent years. Characterized by its fast tempo and obviously electronic sound, EDM is nowadays often played at nightclubs, festivals, and concerts.
While the genre has its roots in the 1970s disco scene, it has undergone a major evolution in recent years, with artists like Skrillex and Deadmau5 helping to lead the way.
Thanks to its high energy and catchy rhythms, EDM is often considered the perfect genre for dancing. In fact, many EDM songs are designed specifically for use in nightclubs and other venues where people are looking to let loose and have a good time. As a result, EDM has become one of the most popular genres of music for young people around the world.
Here are a few notable EDM tracks from the 2000s and early 2010s that helped to pave the path for the genre to grow.
Freeway by Flux Pavilion
Out The Speakers by A-Trak
Alone by Marshmello
Take Me Home by Cash Cash (feat. Bebe Rexha)
Desire by Years & Years (Gryffin Remix)
The Buzz by Hermitude (feat. Mataya & Young Tapz)
Turn Down For What by DJ Snake & Lil Jon
Don't Let Me Down by the Chainsmokers (feat. Daya)
Surface by Aero Chord
Can't Have by Pitbull (feat. Steven A. Clark & Ape Drums)
There are so many sub-genres of EDM and honestly I could expand this list forever. I recommend you check out one of the following EDM playlists below and hit shuffle to get the full experience.
In Conclusion:
The 2000s were a golden era for music. 2000 music hit different, period.
From the early days of Britney Spears and NSYNC to the rise of Eminem and Drake, the music scene was constantly evolving. The 2000s also saw the emergence of new genres like pop punk and crunk rap, as well as the mainstream popularity of alternative rock. With so much variety, there was something for everyone in the 2000s, and I can assume there were even plenty of 2000s songs you forgot about!
Music from the 2000s is cherished and special because it was a time of great change and innovation. Artists were constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds.
This led to some truly unique and timeless music that we still enjoy today. It's hard to imagine a world without music from the 2000s, with some of the best dance songs, we'll forever be grateful for all the great artists who came out of this era. Thank you, 2000s!
Notably, there are so many musicians we have yet to acknowledge in this article, that can be found in our various playlists {anchor to top part of choosing a playlist} but we'll give a quick tip of our cap and mention other important musicians such as Justin Timberlake, Daft Punk, The Black Eyed Peas, Avril Lavigne, Alicia Keys, Usher, Beyoncé, Sean Kingston, Soulja Boy, One Direction, Taio Cruz, Bruno Mars, Shakira, you get the point. There are too many too list. However, these are the artists responsible for creating some of the best throwback songs, and to that, we are in debt.
We really hope you enjoyed this thorough trip down memory lane.
Be sure to create an account and stay up to date on our weekly blog posts documenting music and upcoming music artists! Let us know if we missed any classics in the comments.
Until next time.