As we settle into 2025, it’s hard to believe that a decade has passed since 2015—a year that delivered some of the most unforgettable and genre-defining songs of the mid-2010s. These tracks didn’t just top the charts; they became cultural touchstones, soundtracking everything from summer road trips to viral internet moments. With their 10th anniversaries upon us, let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and revisit the iconic hits that still resonate today.
A Year of Anthems
2015 was a transformative year in music, blending pop, hip-hop, EDM, and more into a vibrant tapestry of sound. One of the standout tracks, Wiz Khalifa’s “See You Again” featuring Charlie Puth, turns 10 this month. Released on March 10, 2015, as a tribute to Fast & Furious star Paul Walker, the song soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 weeks and remains a poignant reminder of loss and love. Its emotional weight and soaring melody have kept it a staple at memorials and celebrations alike. Iconic Songs Turning 10 Years Old in 2025
Drake’s “Hotline Bling,” dropped later that year in October, became an instant sensation—not just for its catchy beat but for sparking a meme frenzy thanks to his quirky dance moves in the music video. A decade later, it’s still impossible to hear “You used to call me on my cell phone” without picturing those pastel backdrops and that signature sway.
Pop Powerhouses and Comebacks
Adele made her triumphant return in 2015 with “Hello,” the lead single from her album 25. Released in October, the soul-stirring ballad dominated charts worldwide, holding the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for 10 weeks and earning Grammy wins for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its raw emotion and cinematic music video still give listeners chills a decade on.
Justin Bieber also redefined his career in 2015 with a string of hits like “What Do You Mean?” and Paired with “Where Are Ü Now,” a collaboration with Diplo and Skrillex that won a Grammy for Best Dance Recording, Bieber proved he was no longer just the teen idol of yesteryear.
Dancefloor Dominance
The mid-2010s were a golden era for electronic dance music, and 2015 delivered bangers that still echo in clubs today. Major Lazer, DJ Snake, and MØ’s “Lean On” became the ultimate summer anthem, blending tropical house with irresistible hooks. Meanwhile, Calvin Harris teamed up with Disciples for “How Deep Is Your Love,” a hypnotic track that kept dancefloors packed and playlists buzzing.
The Weeknd ruled the airwaves with “Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills,” both of which fused R&B with dark, cinematic production. These songs not only topped charts but also marked his evolution into a global superstar, earning critical acclaim and countless streams.
Empowerment and Resilience
Empowering anthems also defined 2015. Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” became a rallying cry for personal triumphs, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and inspiring countless covers and campaigns. Fifth Harmony’s “Worth It,” featuring Kid Ink and released in March 2015, celebrated confidence and swagger, cementing the group’s place in pop history.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright,” co-produced by Pharrell Williams, emerged as more than just a song—it became a beacon of hope and resilience amid social unrest. Its infectious optimism and powerful message earned it Grammy nods and a lasting legacy as an anthem for change.
A Decade Later
Other notable tracks turning 10 include Taylor Swift’s star-studded “Bad Blood” featuring Kendrick Lamar, Selena Gomez’s sultry “Good For You” with A$AP Rocky, and Rihanna’s fierce “Bitch Better Have My Money.” Each song, in its own way, shaped the sound and spirit of 2015, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture.
As these iconic hits celebrate their 10th birthdays, they remind us of a time when music was bold, experimental, and deeply personal. Whether you were dancing to “Lean On” at a festival or belting out “Hello” in your car, these songs captured moments that still feel fresh today. So, crank up the volume, revisit your 2015 playlist, and let the nostalgia wash over you—because 10 years later, these tracks are still worth it.
