Let me begin by emphasizing that this is by no means a definitive list of the greatest songs of all time. The best, just like the best movies or even online slot games, aren’t necessarily the ones you want to see or play again and again. Nevertheless, these songs are practically impossible to turn off when they start playing, yet they also transcend genre.
Some of these songs will go down in history as the first to break records and reach new heights. Others were panned by critics but are still adored by the general public. We’ve compiled a definitive list of the top songs everyone should listen to in 2022. They’re listed below in no particular order.
“Thinking Bout You” – Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean is as pure R&B as he’s ever been on “Thinking Bout You.” Singing in a lovely, somewhat creaky falsetto at moments over a spacey and seductive groove. But, because it’s an Ocean song, this isn’t a story about a bedroom triumph. Instead, it’s a seductive sketch of a love that’s just out of grasp. The allure of “Thinking Bout You,” like many of his compositions, is not in the specifics but the absence of them. His songwriting skill is his ability to make the unfamiliar feel very personal.
“Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin
Some songs fade away without leaving an impression once you’ve heard them. On the other hand, others go beyond music, gaining lyrical status and lasting in perpetuity. The latter is Led Zeppelin’s iconic masterwork, “Stairway to Heaven.” Its lyrics are full of subtle allegories and allusions to mysticism, delivering significantly more than the basic satanism that many critics claim is the primary focus. Of course, Robert Plant composed the lyrics, and he has stated that he was inspired by the works of Scottish writer Lewis Spence, particularly his book Magic Arts. It’s the lyrics’ Celtic esotericism and mysticism that shine through.
“Comethru” – Jeremy Zucker
This song was released in 2018 and has since become one of my favorites. It’s a great tune to listen to while completing work or to have on in the background during the day. Zucker got the idea for the song after spending a summer alone in his parents’ basement writing songs. When Zucker is depressed, lonely, and overthinking things, he conveys his need for someone to be there as a support system in “Comethru.” The motivational lyrics, great tempo, and incredible vocals make this a playlist must-have.
“Life is a Highway” – Tom Cochrane
Tom Cochrane, a Canadian native, had an international smash with this seize-the-day anthem. Most people outside of Canada have never heard of him, but he is a well-known artist in his nation. His achievements include seven Juno Awards, membership in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Honorary Colonel in the Canadian Air Force, and induction into the Canadian Walk of Fame. In Canada, rock stars are taken seriously. For the 2006 Disney film Cars, Rascal Flatts released a more kid-friendly version. It was an excellent choice: while the music was unfamiliar to the children viewing the movie, their parents were familiar with it. The revised version was a hit, reaching No. 7 in the US and helping to sell over a million copies of the soundtrack.
“Shape of You” – Ed Sheeran
The song “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran is well-known. “Shape of You” is one of Spotify’s most-streamed tracks, with 2.8 billion downloads. It’s no surprise, given that it topped the charts in 34 nations in 2017. The complex tropical, pop, and dance sound of “Shape of You” piqued my interest the first time I heard it on the radio. The syncopated backbeat ingrains itself in your mind and refuses to leave.
“Highway to Hell” – AC/DC
Bon Scott, Angus Young, and Malcolm Young wrote the song, with Angus Young creating the primary guitar riff. The song has become one of the most well-known in rock history. The song and album title were allegedly inspired by a reporter who asked band members to describe what it was like to be on the road all the time. “It’s a highway to hell,” Angus answered.
