Pop music has a funny way of feeling timeless; those tracks you still belt out in the car or hear at karaoke nights might not seem that old. But time flies, and some of these pop classics from iconic female artists are already decades behind us. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and see just how long these hits have been around.
1. “Poker Face” – Lady Gaga (2008)
When Lady Gaga dropped The Fame, pop music changed forever. “Poker Face” wasn’t just a chart-topper; it was a cultural reset. With its infectious hook and Gaga’s futuristic persona, it became an anthem of late 2000s nightlife. Believe it or not, this song is now old enough to be in high school. It was also mentioned in a recent feature on songs about gambling by Ivy Casino.
2. “I Kissed a Girl” – Katy Perry (2008)
Katy Perry’s breakout single was bold, cheeky, and instantly iconic. “I Kissed a Girl” turned heads and sparked endless debate about its lyrics, while simultaneously dominating the charts. Seventeen years later, it’s still the song that made Katy Perry a pop household name.
3. “Umbrella” – Rihanna featuring Jay-Z (2007)
“Ella, ella, eh, eh, eh…” You probably just sang that in your head. Rihanna’s “Umbrella” wasn’t just a hit; it was the moment she became a global superstar. The song’s sleek production and unforgettable hook helped define 2000s pop and R&B. Hard to believe this anthem came out nearly two decades ago.
4. “Genie in a Bottle” – Christina Aguilera (1999)
Back when low-rise jeans and chokers ruled, Christina Aguilera burst onto the scene with “Genie in a Bottle.” The track showcased her powerhouse vocals and edgy pop sensibility. This late-’90s gem is now old enough to rent a car in the U.S., feeling ancient yet?
5. “Baby One More Time” – Britney Spears (1998)
Arguably the defining pop song of the late ’90s, Britney’s debut single changed the landscape of pop forever. The schoolgirl outfit, the choreography, the infectious melody; it’s all become legend. At over 25 years old, it’s safe to call this one a classic.
6. “Milkshake” – Kelis (2003)
“My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard…” One of the most quoted pop lyrics of the 2000s. Kelis’s quirky, confident hit blended R&B, pop, and a touch of sass to create something unique. It still sounds fresh, even though it’s been over 20 years.
7. “I Try” – Macy Gray (1999)
With her raspy voice and soulful delivery, Macy Gray’s “I Try” was a heartfelt ballad that dominated radio at the turn of the millennium. It’s the kind of song that instantly transports you back to simpler times, and it’s been around for more than a quarter of a century.
8. “Price Tag” – Jessie J (2011)
“It’s not about the money, money, money…” Jessie J’s debut single carried a message about authenticity in a world obsessed with fame. It’s catchy, upbeat, and pure 2010s energy, but surprisingly, it’s now old enough to be nostalgic for Gen Z listeners.
9. “I’m Like a Bird” – Nelly Furtado (2000)
Before her Loose era and Timbaland collaborations, Nelly Furtado gave us this whimsical folk-pop masterpiece. “I’m Like a Bird” was refreshing, melodic, and a little bit magical. Released at the dawn of a new millennium, it remains one of the most distinctive pop songs of its time.
10. “Because of You” – Kelly Clarkson (2004)
Fresh off her American Idol win, Kelly Clarkson cemented her place in pop-rock history with this emotional power ballad. “Because of You” showcased her incredible vocals and songwriting chops. Hard to believe this heartbreaker has been pulling on emotions for over 20 years.
Final Thoughts
Pop music ages like fine wine, or perhaps like your favorite old playlist on shuffle. These tracks might feel like they came out yesterday, but they’ve quietly turned into generational touchstones. So next time you find yourself singing along, remember: you’re not getting older, your favorite songs are just seasoned.
