11 Biggest Songs That Defined Each Decade (From the 1910s to 2010s)
Music has always been a timeless companion, evolving with each decade to reflect the spirit of its time.
From the smooth jazz of the 1910s to the electronic pulses of the 2010s, songs have captured the hopes, struggles, and dreams of every generation. With their lyrics, rhythms, and melodies, these tracks have become anthems that resonate across cultures and societies.
The songs we’ve chosen here didn’t just top the charts—they helped shape the soundtrack of their eras, leaving a lasting mark on both music and culture.
1. “Alexander’s Ragtime Band” by Irving Berlin (1910s)
In an era brimming with the spirited sounds of jazz, “Alexander’s Ragtime Band” captured the joyous exuberance of the 1910s.
This tune echoed the decade’s vibrant energy, reflecting an age fascinated by innovation and modernity. Its lively rhythm and catchy melody made it an instant hit, resonating with audiences across America.This song not only defined the ragtime craze but also marked a turning point in popular music.
It set the stage for jazz’s immense influence. Fun fact: despite common misconceptions, Berlin couldn’t read or write music traditionally. Instead, he relied on assistants to transcribe his tunes.
2. “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin (1920s)
“Rhapsody in Blue” stands as a monumental piece from the 1920s, embodying the jazz age’s dynamic spirit. Combining classical elements with jazz influences, it mirrored the cultural fusion of the Roaring Twenties.
The bold, innovative fusion captured the optimism and frenetic pace of a decade marked by economic prosperity and social change. Gershwin’s masterpiece symbolized the breaking down of musical barriers, appealing to diverse audiences. Its sweeping melodies and rhythmic complexity made it a musical icon.
Interestingly, the piece was hurriedly composed, with Gershwin scribbling his ideas during a train ride, inspired by its rhythmic sounds.
3. “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland (1930s)
In the midst of the Great Depression, “Over the Rainbow” sung by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” offered a beacon of hope.
Released in 1939, its dreamy lyrics and Garland’s heartfelt performance resonated with audiences seeking solace and optimism during challenging times. The song’s yearning for a better world captured the decade’s aspirations and struggles. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its emotional depth.
A fun fact: the song was almost cut from the movie because studio executives believed it slowed down the film. Thankfully, it remained, becoming one of cinema’s most beloved songs.
4. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby (1940s)
Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” emerged during World War II, offering a nostalgic longing for peace and home. Its soothing melody and Crosby’s warm voice provided comfort to many during tumultuous times.
The song became an anthem for those longing for simpler, joyful days. Its cultural impact was profound, as it resonated with soldiers and families separated by war. Notably, it is one of the best-selling singles of all time.
The interesting thing is that “White Christmas” was written by Irving Berlin, who ironically, was Jewish, contributing to this classic holiday song.
5. “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets (1950s)
The 1950s saw the birth of rock ‘n’ roll, with “Rock Around the Clock” leading the charge. Its energetic beat and rebellious spirit encapsulated the youthful defiance of the era.
This song became a rallying cry for a new generation, symbolizing a shift in cultural norms. It was featured in the film “Blackboard Jungle”, propelling it to global fame.
Fun fact: initially, it wasn’t an immediate hit, but after appearing in the movie, it skyrocketed in popularity, becoming a timeless anthem for rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts.
6. “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles (1960s)
The song “I Want to Hold Your Hand” marked a pivotal moment in the 1960s, heralding the British Invasion. Its catchy melody and harmonious vocals captured the youthful exuberance and optimism of the era.
The song symbolized the shifting cultural landscape, breaking music boundaries and causing a sensation worldwide. Its release in the U.S. fueled Beatlemania, transforming the music industry.
This was the first Beatles song to use four-track recording technology, which revolutionized music production, allowing for more complex and polished sounds.
7. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin (1970s)
The 1970s rock scene was dominated by anthems, and Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” stands at the pinnacle. Its intricate structure, combining rock and folk elements, captivated audiences worldwide.
The song’s mythical lyrics and progressive arrangement epitomized the decade’s artistic experimentation. It became a staple at concerts, showcasing the band’s musical prowess and depth.
Despite its popularity, “Stairway to Heaven” was never released as a single, encouraging fans to experience it through the album format, thus enhancing its legendary status and album-oriented rock culture.
8. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson (1980s)
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” defined the 1980s pop landscape with its innovative music video and infectious beat.
The song and its groundbreaking video transformed music into a visual spectacle, blending horror and entertainment. “Thriller” transcended cultural barriers, becoming a global phenomenon and solidifying Jackson’s status as the King of Pop. It remains a Halloween classic, with its iconic dance moves imitated worldwide.
Interestingly, the 14-minute video was directed by John Landis and set a new standard for music videos, highlighting the burgeoning music television industry, especially MTV.
9. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana (1990s)
This iconic song was a game-changer in the 1990s, propelling grunge into the mainstream. Its raw energy and angst-laden lyrics resonated with disenchanted youth, capturing the essence of Generation X.
The song challenged conventional music norms, making alternative rock a dominant cultural force. It became an anthem of rebellion and identity, with Kurt Cobain’s distinct voice echoing the frustrations of a generation.
An interesting fact: the song’s title was inspired by a friend’s graffiti, linking it to a popular deodorant brand, adding an unexpected twist to its legacy.
10. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast (2000s)
The 2000s were marked by genre-blending, and OutKast’s “Hey Ya!” epitomized this trend with its infectious rhythm and eclectic style.
The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat tempo made it an instant hit, celebrating individuality and creativity. “Hey Ya!” challenged traditional genre confines, blending hip-hop with pop and rock influences. It became a dance floor staple, its “shake it like a Polaroid picture” line embedding into pop culture.
The song’s playful video, inspired by The Beatles’ appearances on “The Ed Sullivan Show”, cleverly fused nostalgia with innovation, reflecting early millennium trends.
11. “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele (2010s)
This song symbolizes the soulful revival of the 2010s. Its powerful vocals and stirring lyrics conveyed raw emotion, captivating audiences around the globe.
“Rolling in the Deep” marked a return to emotive storytelling in music, resonating with listeners seeking authenticity. It dominated the charts, earning numerous accolades and showcasing Adele’s commanding presence.
An interesting fact: inspired by a tumultuous breakup, the song’s haunting intensity earned it critical acclaim, and it became Adele’s first number-one hit in the U.S., solidifying her as one of the decade’s most influential artists.