Top English Pop Hits Of 2016: Hottest Tracks!

Hey music lovers! Ready for a trip down memory lane? Let’s dive into the best English pop songs of 2016 that had us all singing and dancing. Get ready to rediscover some awesome tunes!

Chart-Topping Sensations of 2016

The year 2016 was an absolute banger for pop music, filled with unforgettable hits that dominated the airwaves and streaming platforms alike. From upbeat anthems to soulful ballads, there was something for everyone. Let's explore some of the biggest English pop songs that defined the year.

"Sorry" - Justin Bieber

No recap of 2016's pop hits is complete without mentioning Justin Bieber’s "Sorry." This track was everywhere, guys! The infectious beat, coupled with Bieber’s smooth vocals, made it an instant classic. "Sorry" was co-written and produced by Skrillex, who brought his signature electronic sound to the mix, giving the song a unique edge that set it apart from other pop tracks of the time. The lyrics, seemingly an apology to a past lover, resonated with listeners, adding an emotional layer to the catchy tune. The music video, featuring a dance crew, was equally captivating and contributed to the song’s massive popularity. It seemed like every radio station, every party, and every playlist had "Sorry" on repeat! The song’s success wasn't just limited to the charts; it also influenced fashion and dance trends, with people all over the world trying to replicate the dance moves from the music video. "Sorry" solidified Justin Bieber's comeback and cemented his status as a global pop superstar. Whether you loved him or were just discovering his music, there was no denying the impact "Sorry" had on the music scene in 2016. It’s a song that still gets people moving and grooving today, proving its timeless appeal and lasting legacy. The blend of pop, electronic, and dance elements made it a standout track, and its relatability made it a chart-topper. This song is a perfect example of how pop music can evolve and incorporate different genres to create something truly special. It's one of those songs that you can't help but sing along to, no matter how many times you've heard it!

"Work" - Rihanna ft. Drake

Speaking of inescapable hits, Rihanna’s "Work" featuring Drake was another massive tune from 2016. The song's infectious Caribbean-infused beat and Rihanna's unique vocal delivery made it an instant earworm. The collaboration with Drake, who was also at the peak of his career, further amplified the song’s appeal and reach. "Work" is characterized by its repetitive lyrics and dancehall vibe, which created a hypnotic effect that kept listeners hooked. The accompanying music video, with its raw and intimate portrayal of a dancehall party, added to the song's authenticity and cultural resonance. It perfectly captured the essence of Caribbean music and dance, introducing it to a wider global audience. The song's success wasn't just about its catchy melody; it was also about its cultural impact. Rihanna, with her Bajan roots, brought a sense of pride and representation to the forefront, celebrating her heritage through her music. "Work" topped the charts in numerous countries and became one of the most-streamed songs of the year. It also sparked countless dance challenges and covers, further solidifying its place in pop culture history. The song's minimalist production allowed Rihanna's voice to shine, and Drake's verse added a layer of depth and complexity to the track. "Work" remains a staple in Rihanna's discography and a testament to her ability to blend different genres and create music that resonates with a global audience. It’s a song that still gets played at parties and clubs, reminding us of the vibrant music scene of 2016. The song's impact extends beyond just music; it also influenced fashion and style, with people embracing the Caribbean-inspired looks seen in the music video. It's a perfect example of how music can transcend boundaries and bring people together through shared experiences.

"Closer" - The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey

"Closer" by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey was the anthem of late 2016. Its blend of electronic dance music with pop sensibilities made it a favorite at parties and on the radio. The song's relatability, which tells the story of a chance encounter between former lovers, struck a chord with listeners of all ages. The combination of The Chainsmokers' catchy beats and Halsey's distinctive vocals created a perfect storm of pop perfection. "Closer" dominated the Billboard charts for weeks and became one of the most-streamed songs of the year, breaking records and setting new standards for electronic pop music. The song's success wasn't just about its catchy melody; it was also about its emotional depth. The lyrics evoked feelings of nostalgia, longing, and regret, which resonated with many people who had experienced similar situations in their own lives. The simplicity of the production, with its focus on the vocals and the beat, allowed the song's message to shine through. "Closer" also helped to propel The Chainsmokers and Halsey to superstardom, solidifying their places as major players in the pop music scene. The song's impact extended beyond just the charts; it also influenced fashion and culture, with people adopting the casual and effortless style seen in the music video. It's a song that still gets played at parties and clubs, reminding us of the carefree days of 2016. The song's ability to evoke emotions and create a sense of connection is what makes it so special. It's a perfect example of how pop music can be both entertaining and meaningful, capturing the essence of human experiences in a catchy and relatable way.

"One Dance" - Drake ft. Wizkid & Kyla

Drake's "One Dance," featuring Wizkid and Kyla, brought a different flavor to the pop scene in 2016. This track blended pop with dancehall and Afrobeats, creating a global sensation that had everyone moving. The song's infectious rhythm and Drake's smooth delivery made it an instant hit, topping the charts in numerous countries. The collaboration with Wizkid, a Nigerian artist, and Kyla, a British singer, added a layer of international appeal, showcasing the diversity of the pop music landscape. "One Dance" became one of the most-streamed songs of the year and helped to introduce Afrobeats to a wider global audience. The song's success wasn't just about its catchy melody; it was also about its cultural significance. It highlighted the growing influence of African music on the global stage and celebrated the diversity of musical styles. The minimalist production, with its focus on the rhythm and the vocals, allowed the song's energy to shine through. "One Dance" also helped to solidify Drake's status as a global pop superstar, demonstrating his ability to blend different genres and create music that resonates with people from all walks of life. The song's impact extended beyond just the charts; it also influenced fashion and culture, with people embracing the Afrobeat-inspired looks seen in the music video. It's a song that still gets played at parties and clubs, reminding us of the vibrant music scene of 2016. The song's ability to bring people together through music and dance is what makes it so special. It's a perfect example of how pop music can be both entertaining and culturally significant, reflecting the diversity of the world we live in.

Other Notable Mentions

Of course, 2016 was brimming with even more fantastic pop tracks. Here are a few other songs that deserve a shout-out:

• "Cheap Thrills" - Sia ft. Sean Paul: This upbeat track was a party staple, blending Sia’s powerful vocals with Sean Paul’s dancehall vibes.
• "Can't Stop the Feeling!" - Justin Timberlake: An undeniably feel-good song that had everyone dancing. Perfect for lifting your spirits!
• "Pillowtalk" - Zayn: Zayn’s debut single after leaving One Direction, showcasing a more mature and sensual sound.
• "7 Years" - Lukas Graham: A poignant and heartfelt ballad that told the story of growing up and reflecting on life.

Why These Songs Still Resonate

So, why do these songs still get us going even now? Well, these top English pop songs capture the essence of 2016, both musically and culturally. They remind us of the trends, the fashion, and the feelings of that time. Plus, they’re just really catchy! Music has a unique way of transporting us back to specific moments in our lives, and these songs are like time capsules that take us right back to 2016. The catchy melodies, the relatable lyrics, and the memorable music videos all contribute to their enduring appeal. Whether you were dancing at a party, driving in your car, or just hanging out with friends, these songs were the soundtrack to your life in 2016. And even though years have passed, they still have the power to evoke those same feelings of joy, nostalgia, and excitement. The fact that they continue to be played on the radio and streamed online is a testament to their lasting impact on pop culture. They represent a time when pop music was evolving and experimenting with different sounds, blending genres and pushing boundaries. These songs are not just catchy tunes; they are also cultural artifacts that reflect the spirit of a particular moment in time. They remind us of the power of music to connect people, to inspire creativity, and to capture the essence of human experiences.

Conclusion

2016 was a fantastic year for pop music, and these tracks are a testament to that. So, go ahead, add these 2016 English pop hits to your playlist and relive the good times! Happy listening, folks!