We just gave you the top 10 best albums of the year so far–now revel in the best singles!
Obviously, Adele is in there, but guess who else gets a mention? Plus, do you agree with our choices? Put your own picks in the comments!
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10. The Raveonettes – “Forget That You're Young“
The band turns down the noise and ups the quiet desperation on this track about robbing the cradle.
9. Bon Iver – “Calgary“
Pardon my knock earlier (excessive fawning gets tiresome) — this is the best Phil Collins song ever!
8. The Weeknd – “What You Need“
Noirishly sexy and menacing.
7. EMA – “California“
A rambling and brilliant mission statement from EMA's similarly
strong Past Life Martyred Saints, recalling '90s folktronica stars like
Suzanne Vega.
6. Lykke Li – “I Follow Rivers“
Perhaps her best song yet, full of surging longing — a Dusty
Springfield moment from a singer who usually stays aloof and mellow.
5. Foster the People – “Pumped Up Kicks“
Really just an undeniable earworm with enough psych-pop chops to make it more than a passing fancy.
4. Beyonce – “Run the World (Girls)“
Duh.
3. Tyler, the Creator – “Yonkers“
Delusional paranoia never sounded so alluring.
2. Lil' Wayne – “6 Foot 7 Foot“
Who knows if/when Tha Carter IV will come out, but its singles have
not disappointed thus far — this sequel of sorts to “A Milli” is as
industrial and dark as that track but with a more commanding delivery
and a breakneck-speed guest spot by Cory Gunz.
1. Adele – “Rolling in the Deep“
Meaner and darker than any indie, rock or hip-hop song released this
year is “Rolling in the Deep,” a bitter breakup song for the ages. How
amazing is that slightly atonal backup vocal at the chorus? That this
song is as popular as it is makes me love everyone.
