
SMALLTOWN BOY
BRONSKI BEAT
1984
This anthem pushes the boundaries of what a radio-friendly synthpop song could be, and even modern hits owe it a subtle debt of gratitude.

NO TEARS LEFT TO CRY
ARIANA GRANDE
2018
Ariana Grande does pop music on her terms, and her instincts are undisputedly victorious on this one.

ROAM
THE B-52’S
1989
By B-52’s standards, this is one of their most focused works. As infectious as any of their best, but the melody and sublime vocal arrangement are enough.

GIMME MORE
BRITNEY SPEARS
2008
Ummm hello? “It’s Britney, b*tch!” This beat is light years ahead of its time, and I would say that if it came out today. The production is generally an achievement, but it’s always Brit herself that brings a song to the next level.

FINNALY
CECE PENISTON
1991
A dance floor classic, a radio staple, and the melody in your head nearly every time you see the word “finally.”

STYLE
TAYLOR SWIFT
1999
Taylor Swift the pop star doesn’t believe there’s a cap to how big you can make a sound, and “Style” takes her songwriting savvy and sends it up in a mushroom cloud.

I WANT YOU
SAVAGE GARDEN
1996
The song’s frantic urgency drives towards the release of the the chorus in the most flawless way. But getting these lyrics down is a feat.

WHITE FLAG
DIDO
2003
Oh, this ballad is stunning and absolutely timeless. Justice for Dido!

I’M GONNA BE (500 MILES)
THE PROCLAIMERS
1988
This song is just so endearing, so undeniable. If anything it’s aged like wine, when it could have become a parody of itself.

ROCK DJ
ROBBIE WILLIAMS
2000
“Rock DJ” is a masterful spitfire that sets the perfect stage for Robbie’s bravado to shine.










