We all have those songs – the ones we sing at the top of our lungs when no one is around, but might be too embarrassed to admit we love. They’re the guilty pleasures of our playlists, the tunes that make us feel just a bit self-conscious but undeniably happy. It’s time to put aside the shame and give these songs the recognition they deserve. Here are 25 guilty pleasure songs that should be celebrated this year.
I Want It That Way by Backstreet Boys
A quintessential boy band ballad, “I Want It That Way” is the soundtrack of ’90s nostalgia. Its heartfelt lyrics and harmonies make it impossible not to belt out, even if you cringe a little while doing it.
Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus gave us an anthem with “Party in the USA.” This pop masterpiece is all about the excitement of new beginnings and the thrill of independence. It’s impossible not to smile and sing along when this comes on.
Who Let the Dogs Out by Baha Men
Admit it—you know the chorus. This 2000 hit is catchy, fun, and a bit ridiculous, but that’s what makes it so endearing. “Who Let the Dogs Out” is the perfect party starter and an instant mood lifter.
Blue by Eiffel 65
This Eurodance hit with its infectious beat and nonsensical lyrics (“I’m blue da ba dee da ba daa…”) is a classic guilty pleasure. It’s quirky, fun, and irresistibly danceable.
Wannabe by Spice Girls
If you wanna be my lover, you’ve gotta get with “Wannabe.” This girl power anthem by the Spice Girls is an absolute bop. It’s energetic, playful, and perfect for sing-alongs with friends.
Walk Like An Egyptian by The Bangles
With its quirky rhythm and catchy chorus, “Walk Like An Egyptian” is a fun throwback. It’s impossible not to do the iconic dance moves whenever it comes on.
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go by Wham
This Wham! hit is pure, unadulterated pop joy. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is cheerful, upbeat, and the perfect song to dance around the house to.
MMMBop by Hanson
“MMMBop” might have nonsensical lyrics, but that’s part of its charm. This Hanson hit is infectious and brings a sense of carefree youth and happiness.
Tubthumping by Chumbawumba
“I get knocked down, but I get up again!” This anthem of resilience is ridiculously catchy. “Tubthumping” is a must-have on any feel-good playlist.
Kokomo by Beach Boys
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with “Kokomo.” This Beach Boys hit is all about sandy beaches, clear waters, and relaxation. It’s a perfect escape song.
Umbrella by Rihanna
Rihanna’s “Umbrella” is a modern classic. Its catchy chorus and sleek production make it a guilty pleasure that’s hard to resist.
Toxic by Britney Spears
With its seductive beats and Britney’s iconic vocals, “Toxic” is a pop masterpiece. It’s edgy, fun, and undeniably addictive.
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” is an anthem for shaking off negativity. It’s upbeat, fun, and a perfect song to dance away your worries.
Rolling in the Deep by Adele
Adele’s powerhouse vocals and emotional depth in “Rolling in the Deep” make it a song you can’t help but sing along to, even if it’s in the privacy of your shower.
Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s breakup anthem is empowering and exhilarating. “Since U Been Gone” is perfect for belting out when you need to release some emotions.
Back to Black by Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s soulful voice and raw lyrics in “Back to Black” make it a hauntingly beautiful guilty pleasure.
Hips Don’t Lie by Shakira
Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” is a dance floor staple. Its infectious beat and Shakira’s unique voice make it impossible not to move your hips to.
Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars
“Uptown Funk” is a funky, feel-good hit that’s perfect for any party. Its catchy rhythm and Bruno Mars’ energetic performance make it a timeless guilty pleasure.
Baby by Justin Bieber
“Baby” might have been overplayed, but it’s undeniably catchy. Justin Bieber’s breakout hit is a fun, pop anthem that still gets stuck in our heads.
Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen
Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” is pop perfection. Its catchy chorus and playful lyrics make it an irresistible guilty pleasure.
Poker Face by Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face” is a bold, electro-pop hit that’s impossible to ignore. Its catchy beat and Gaga’s unique style make it a song you secretly love.
Bad Guy by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” is edgy, quirky, and incredibly catchy. Its unconventional style and infectious beat make it a modern guilty pleasure.
Titanium by Sia
With its powerful vocals and inspiring lyrics, “Titanium” by Sia is an empowering anthem. It’s a song that makes you feel invincible.
Hotline Bling by Drake
Drake’s “Hotline Bling” is a catchy, smooth hit that’s perfect for late-night listening. Its memorable chorus and chill vibe make it a guilty pleasure worth celebrating.
Despacito by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee
“Despacito” took the world by storm with its infectious rhythm and captivating melody. It’s a song that makes you want to dance, no matter how many times you’ve heard it.
So, there you have it—a playlist of guilty pleasures that deserve their flowers this year. Embrace the joy these songs bring, sing along without shame, and let the music lift your spirits. After all, there’s no guilt in loving a song that makes you happy.
*This post originally appeared on ReadingRanked*
