Shawn Mendes' Treat
In 2016, Shawn Mendes delivered the heartbreak anthem, “Treat You Better.” The song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics about a toxic relationship resonated
with a wide audience. It quickly climbed the charts. The song became a staple on radio and streaming platforms, showcasing Mendes' emerging talent. The track's success solidified his position as a rising pop star. “Treat You Better” went on to achieve platinum certification, a testament to its enduring appeal and impact on the music scene.
Sia's 'Cheap Thrills'
Sia, teamed up with Sean Paul to give the world “Cheap Thrills”. Released in 2016, the song's infectious beat and Sia's powerful vocals, coupled with Sean Paul's dancehall vibes, created an unforgettable hit. The song topped charts worldwide. It further expanded Sia’s reach and boosted Sean Paul's presence. “Cheap Thrills” became an anthem for parties. Its upbeat rhythm and empowering message about enjoying simple pleasures made it a crowd-pleaser. The song’s popularity demonstrated the global appeal of cross-genre collaborations.
Zayn's 'Pillowtalk' Impact
Zayn Malik’s solo debut, “Pillowtalk,” shook up the music world in 2016. This track presented a mature and sensual side of the artist. Its moody atmosphere and sultry vocals captivated listeners. It topped various charts internationally, showing his successful transition into a solo career after leaving One Direction. “Pillowtalk” displayed Zayn's artistic freedom and his ability to push boundaries. The song’s music video, with its intimate visuals, generated significant buzz. It became a defining track, showcasing his new musical identity and making a strong statement.
Ariana's 'Side to Side'
In 2016, Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj teamed up for “Side to Side.” This collaboration combined Grande's pop vocals with Minaj's rap prowess. The song's energetic beat and suggestive lyrics turned it into a chart-topping sensation. The music video, which was set in a gym, generated a lot of buzz. “Side to Side” further cemented Grande's position in the industry, and it also highlighted the synergy between two major female artists. The song also showcased the power of female collaborations and became a staple in pop playlists worldwide, demonstrating its long-lasting popularity.
The Chainsmokers' 'Closer'
The Chainsmokers, with Halsey, created a pop phenomenon with “Closer” in 2016. The song, blending EDM with pop sensibilities, became a massive hit. It topped charts globally, showing its appeal to a broad audience. The lyrics and the catchy chorus resonated with younger audiences. “Closer” defined the sound of that year and became an inescapable track on radio. It showed the duo's ability to blend electronic sounds with pop melodies, becoming a pivotal moment in both The Chainsmokers' and Halsey's careers, ensuring enduring popularity.
Bruno's '24K Magic'
Bruno Mars brought the funk back with “24K Magic” in 2016. The track, a tribute to the glitz of the 1980s and 1990s, was an instant hit. The song's retro vibe, Bruno's vocals, and the vibrant music video made it unforgettable. “24K Magic” celebrated good times and inspired many to dance. It earned critical acclaim and commercial success. It showcased Mars' versatility and his ability to pay homage to classic music genres, while staying relevant. The song highlighted his role as a performer and artist.
Drake's 'One Dance'
Drake, joined by Wizkid and Kyla, delivered the global smash “One Dance” in 2016. The song, with its blend of Afrobeat and pop influences, became a global hit. It topped charts worldwide, proving the global appeal. The song's catchy rhythm and Drake's laid-back delivery had a broad audience, playing at parties worldwide. “One Dance” showcased Drake’s ability to experiment with different genres. It became a cultural phenomenon, underscoring the shift in music and showcasing Drake's global impact. The song solidified his presence in the music industry.
Twenty One Pilots' 'Heathens'
Twenty One Pilots released “Heathens” in 2016, providing an alternative rock anthem. The track, created for the Suicide Squad soundtrack, garnered critical acclaim. Its dark and edgy vibe resonated with fans. The song's lyrics and the music video, which featured visuals from the film, became a significant success. “Heathens” expanded Twenty One Pilots’ audience. The song's success solidified the band's status in the alternative music scene. It’s an example of the power of music and film, generating a lasting impact on listeners.
The Weeknd's 'Starboy'
In 2016, The Weeknd partnered with Daft Punk to give the world the track “Starboy.” This collaboration brought together The Weeknd's R&B vocals and Daft Punk's electronic music. The song topped charts worldwide. The music video, with its stylish visuals, added to the song’s appeal. “Starboy” demonstrated The Weeknd’s artistic evolution. The song, with Daft Punk's presence, ensured that the track would be remembered. The song further highlighted their dominance in the music industry and their ability to blend different musical styles.
