The Best Songs of 2021

Music is alive, baby, and so are we. Over the last two years, as Covid-19 kept us largely at home, the Best TV and Best Movies gave us something to do, but sweet holy sound—music—gave us somewhere to go. It transported us, mentally, into the pits or peaks of our emotions; to imagined escapes. To the future.

The artists turned out some of their best work in 2021. There has been plenty fare ready for the dance floor, be the rave at home or in a warehouse, from singers like Doja Cat, Silk Sonic (the collaborative project from Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak), and ABBA. Yes, ABBA! They're back! And just as much for our tender, quiet moments of reflection and release. There has been rock, a health dose of soul, and even a few remarkably exciting debuts (Wet Leg!).

Whatever your mood, there's a tune for it, below. These are the best songs of 2021.