Well, 2013 was definitely a big year for pop. Battling behemoths such as One Direction, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus were a new breed of bands, inspired as much by woozy ‘80s R&B and power ballads as the Beatles or Ramones.
As has always been the way though, if you want to succeed as a pop artist then great single releases are definitely the way to go. Aside from that, a winning formula seems to be to enter a TV talent show, or at least be asked to perform on one. As far as the list goes, well, here it is: the year in singles.
1. The 1975 – Chocolate
The song that launched a career. Matt Healy’s distinctive vocals marked this out as a highlight from their debut album, which has been loved sufficiently to afford them a headline date at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2014.
2. James Arthur – You’re Nobody ‘Til Somebody Loves You
Despite Arthur’s late year retreat into social media oblivion, this remains one of the best original singles from an X Factor winner. This soul-tinged track proved talent can come out of the show - the boy just needs to learn to use his mouth for singing.
3. Kings Of Leon – Supersoaker
The boys are back and they’ve regressed to ‘Aha Shake Heartbreak’ territory. A great first single from their latest album, ‘Mechanical Bull’, and a classic Kings Of Leon sound filled with Caleb Followill’s sexy growl and that perfect musicianship.
4. Kodaline – All I Want
The Irish band’s fourth, and final, single of the year and definitely their most beautiful. A moving video and a gorgeous, haunting vocal made this one of the must-hear tracks of 2013. This initially appeared on their EP last year, but deserves a second look after being re-released in the wake of 'In A Perfect World'.
5. Bastille – Pompeii
The band’s biggest hit to date, and one that’s become their anthem this year. That riff and beat mixed perfectly with Dan Smith’s sweet vocals, and despite what the band said, this certainly wasn’t “lost” at the Emirates Stadium supporting Muse in the summer.
6. One Direction – Kiss You
Yes, One Direction. Kiss You is a brilliant, catchy, singalong pop song from the world’s biggest boy band. Their best single since their debut.
7. Haim – The Wire
It was hard not to become sick of the hype, but one listen to this song soothes even the most savage of beasts. A catchy tune with a summery ‘80s vibe and some damn good lady vocals.
8. Bruno Mars – Gorilla
Not quite the same level as last year’s Locked Out Of Heaven, but a massive ‘Unorthodox Jukebox’ highlight. A soulful, sexy, filthy little number that shows off just a smidge of Bruno Mars’ ridiculous talent. A sex jam of the highest order.
9. Ry X – Berlin
Australian singer, songwriter and guitarist Ry Cuming produced one of 2013’s most beautiful tracks with Berlin. A captivating, haunting vocal encased in a stripped back, melodic and wonderful song that doesn’t even need a full three minutes to draw you in. Simply stunning.
10. Panic! At The Disco – Girls/Girls/Boys
Do I need to say much about this fantastic electro-pop ditty other than this? Brendan Urie. Naked. With teasing camera angles. If that isn’t enough for you, then his silky smooth vocals on this track will send you over the edge.
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