The biggest global songs of each year for the past decade
Updated | By Breakfast with Martin Bester
We're taking a look at the biggest songs of each year for the past 10 years…
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The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) is the voice of the recording industry worldwide, representing the interests of over 8,000 members across the globe.
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Each year, IFPI compiles data to determine the biggest global song, showcasing the tracks that have dominated charts, playlists, and airwaves worldwide.
Music has always been an evolving reflection of culture, emotions, and the shared experiences of listeners.
Over the years, certain songs have left undeniable marks on the world, defining eras and bringing people together through their melodies and lyrics.
Looking back over the past 10 years, we've seen everything from infectious dance hits to soulful ballads take the world by storm.
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Here are the biggest global songs of each year from the past decade according to IFPI (we’ve also included 2013):
2013: 'Blurred Lines' – Robin Thicke feat. T.I. & Pharrell
2014: 'Happy' – Pharrell Williams
2015: 'See You Again' – Wiz Khalifa feat. Charlie Puth
2016: 'One Dance' – Drake feat. Wizkid & Kyla
2017: 'Shape of You' – Ed Sheeran
2018: 'Havana' – Camila Cabello feat. Young Thug
2019: 'bad guy' – Billie Eilish
2020: 'Blinding Lights' – The Weeknd
2021: 'Save Your Tears' – The Weeknd & Ariana Grande
2022: 'As It Was' – Harry Styles
2023: 'Flowers' – Miley Cyrus
2024: 'Beautiful Things' – Benson Boone
From dance anthems to ballads, these songs have defined their respective years and continue to influence music today.
IFPI also recently shared the top 10 biggest songs of 2024 worldwide:
Top 10 biggest songs of 2024 worldwide (via IFPI):
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) February 20, 2025
#1: Beautiful Things
#2: Espresso
#3: Lose Control
#4: BIRDS OF A FEATHER
#5: A Bar Song (Tipsy)
#6: Too Sweet
#7: I Had Some Help
#8: Not Like Us
#9: Cruel Summer
#10: Stick Season
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