Top 10 Pop Songs to Get You PUMPED
#10: "Dancing Queen" (1976)
ABBA
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In one of their most well-known releases, ABBA reminded everyone that they could make hits like nobody else. “Dancing Queen” celebrates the dancer in all of us, using disco and pop as a guide. With the singers bringing their A-game, the melodies fly high in a pristine recording. Indeed, the best sounds of the ‘70s permeate this track, from the piano part to the wonderful string arrangements. Not only did it become a decade-defining hit following its initial release, it’s also a fun-loving anthem for members of any generation to enjoy. The positivity oozing through every note simply cannot be overstated.
#9: "Wannabe" (1996)
Spice Girls
Straight from the UK, this female group defined the mid-to-late 1990s with their music. And this memorable single does a great job showcasing the members’ strengths. Mixing pop and dance influences, “Wannabe” is guaranteed to lift you up out of any bad mood. The band’s “girl power” message adds even more good vibes to the groovy final product. Instead of being a dated release with tacky lyrics, this fully-loaded anthem continues to inspire and excite audiences well into the 21st century. The Spice Girls have many fantastic tracks, but this one manages to pump people up better than anything else.
#8: "Shake It Off" (2014)
Taylor Swift
Pushing back against her haters, Taylor Swift dishes out one of her most successful and resonant singles. “Shake It Off” seeks to sidestep negativity in favor of a brighter outlook on life. Digging into her own personal and public struggles, Swift presents lyrics that are both catchy and simple in an inviting way. Thus, the colorful track puts her power as a full-blown, magnetic pop star on display. Inspiring audiences to believe in themselves, the songwriter gives us an upbeat hit with a universal message. The production also includes a saxophone line that’s sure to encourage some dancing.
#7: "I'm Coming Out" (1980)
Diana Ross
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Diana Ross’ “I'm Coming Out” has been energizing people for decades, and shows no signs of stopping. The metaphors in the song can be used in various ways, any of which represent a positive and re-energizing transformation in someone. Ross’ work inspired many others, as it became a LGBTQIA+ anthem with its lyrics. Produced and written by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers, this funky track also makes audiences want to move. Rodgers’ guitar playing notably feels as fresh today as it did upon release, as does every other element. In the end, the disco tune exemplifies liveliness in stellar fashion.
#6: "Physical" (2020)
Dua Lipa
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Following her mainstream breakthrough in the 2010s, Dua Lipa took her place as a formidable force in the pop world. She followed up a stellar debut with a sophomore album full of hits like “Physical.” Setting the mood, the atmospheric track and its explosive chorus are tailor-made for any dance floor. Lipa’s vocals, for their part, round out an impressive musical display. With a wink to Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical” among other things, the enticing single lives up the high-bar set by its 1980s inspiration. It’s sure to have a place in the pop sphere for years to come, along with her other catchy releases like "Levitating".
#5: "Run the World (Girls)" (2011)
Beyoncé
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You can always trust Beyoncé to bring the power and energy, and this banger is no exception. “Run the World (Girls)” doesn’t hesitate to send a message, establishing itself as one of the boldest statements in the artist’s catalog. The energized song wastes no time reminding listeners of the importance of women, and needless to say, it does so quite effectively. In an effortless performance, Bey delivers on the promise of a great time and a strong message. Her talents fiercely bring together pop and R&B roots, ensuring that you'll be more than ready to tackle the day after hearing this track.
#4: "Can't Stop the Feeling!" (2016)
Justin Timberlake
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Justin Timberlake is no stranger to pop classics, and this one might just be his most fun. The song from the “Trolls” soundtrack functions like an instant dose of happiness. Building to a catchy chorus, the production hits the spot with its crisp sound. Plus, the pro-dance anthem features Timberlake at the top of his game. He sings along with an electric groove, inspiring listeners to join him. The artist finds a way to describe the sensation that accompanies the happiest moments in life. If that doesn’t get you pumped up, we don’t know what will.
#3: "Good as Hell" (2016)
Lizzo
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You can’t go wrong with this single that’s all about loving yourself. Finding inspiration in independence, Lizzo tells listeners that they shouldn’t let a significant other get in the way. The performer has the ability to help anybody up and out the door through music. With a fun chorus that’s upbeat as anything, this track is filled to the brim with positive vibes. You’ll probably be singing “Good as Hell” for hours after you hear it. Though the song originally came out in 2016, it received another boost in 2019, and it’s easy to see why. Lizzo has carried on this positivity in future releases such as the acclaimed "About Damn Time".
#2: "Uptown Funk" (2014)
Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
Coming together for a throwback single, producer Mark Ronson and singer Bruno Mars give this track, that’s full of amazing production values, their all. Built on a foundation of funky horns and beats, “Uptown Funk” is a thrill ride from start to finish. Indeed, Mars and company pull off a high-intensity performance that never wavers for one second. A hugely-entertaining experience, this hit is exactly the kind of sound listeners need to turn their frowns upside down. Ronson and Mars clearly know the perfect formula to energize people, leaving them better off after hearing the Grammy-winning song.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
"September" (1978), Earth, Wind & Fire
A Certifiable ‘70s Classic That Never Fails to Make Folks Happy
"4 Minutes" (2008), Madonna feat. Justin Timberlake & Timbaland
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"Groove Is in the Heart" (1990), Deee-Lite
Serving up Timeless Grooves to Get Listeners Excited
"I Got You (I Feel Good)" (1965), James Brown & the Famous Flames
The Late “Godfather of Soul” Brings His Contagious Spirit to a Lively Single
"Walking on Sunshine" (1985), Katrina and the Waves
An ‘80s Hit That Perfectly Encapsulates the Feeling of Being in Love
#1: "Don't Stop Me Now" (1978)
Queen
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Queen’s ode to a good time is also one of their best. Concentrating all their energy into the hypnotic track, the band really shows up here. The late Freddie Mercury’s words skillfully describe being on top of the world. After a dramatic build, the lead singer pushes the song to the limit, delivering on its quick pace. His writing and performance ensure that “Don’t Stop Me Now” has a timeless quality, edging out the group’s other classics like "We Will Rock You". There’s even a guitar solo from Brian May to keep things extra interesting. Who wouldn’t be ready to take on the night after hearing this tune?
