Top 10 Songs from 2016

2016 was one of those rare years where music felt everywhere in the best possible way. Turn on the radio, walk into a shop, attend a wedding, or scroll through social media and there was always a song that instantly lifted the mood. It was a year packed with creativity, crossover hits, and tracks that connected people of all ages. Even now, these songs still feel fresh, fun, and full of life.

This blog dives into the top songs from 2016 that truly defined the year. While the headline celebrates a top 10, music lovers know how impossible it is to stop at just ten, so you’ll also find an expanded list of twenty standout tracks from 2016, all clean, upbeat, and perfect for any occasion. Every song listed helped shape playlists, parties, weddings, and everyday moments, making 2016 a year to remember in music.

Let’s rewind the clock and enjoy the sound of a brilliant year.

Why 2016 Was Such a Standout Year for Music

The magic of 2016 came from variety. Pop blended with dance, soul met electronic beats, and catchy hooks were everywhere. Streaming platforms were booming, radio still mattered, and music felt shared rather than fragmented. Artists released songs that were not only chart-toppers but also timeless crowd-pleasers.

From summer anthems to emotional singalongs, 2016 delivered songs that continue to work perfectly on dancefloors today. DJs still rely on these tracks because they are familiar, joyful, and guaranteed to bring people together.

The Top 10 Songs from 2016 That Defined the Year

These ten tracks stood above the rest in 2016. They dominated charts, filled venues, and became instant classics.

1. One Dance – Drake (2016)
   Smooth, rhythmic, and endlessly catchy, One Dance became a global favourite. Its relaxed beat made it perfect for both radio play and packed dancefloors.
2. Can’t Stop the Feeling! – Justin Timberlake (2016)
   Pure positivity wrapped in a pop anthem. Can’t Stop the Feeling! is the definition of feel-good music and still fills dancefloors instantly.
3. Closer – The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey (2016)
   This song captured the sound of modern pop in 2016. Closer balanced emotion and energy perfectly.
4. Cheap Thrills – Sia (2016)
   A reminder that fun doesn’t need to be complicated. Cheap Thrills became a party essential across the world.
5. Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars (2016)
   Still unstoppable in 2016, Uptown Funk continued to dominate parties with its retro groove and universal appeal.
6. This Is What You Came For – Calvin Harris featuring Rihanna (2016)
   A festival-ready anthem that defined summer nights. This Is What You Came For delivered pure energy.
7. 24K Magic – Bruno Mars (2016)
   Confident, stylish, and irresistibly fun, 24K Magic brought a modern twist to classic funk.
8. Work – Rihanna featuring Drake (2016)
   Relaxed yet addictive, Work was everywhere in 2016 and still sounds smooth today.
9. Cake by the Ocean – DNCE (2016)
   Bright, bouncy, and full of personality, Cake by the Ocean became a guaranteed singalong.
10. Don’t Let Me Down – The Chainsmokers featuring Daya (2016)
    A powerful mix of emotion and electronic energy, Don’t Let Me Down closed out the top ten perfectly.

More Essential Songs from 2016 You Still Love Today

Because 2016 had so much great music, here are ten more songs that deserve recognition. These tracks continue to perform brilliantly at events and parties.

11. Shape of You – Ed Sheeran (2016)
    A smooth, rhythmic hit that became instantly recognisable.
12. Stitches – Shawn Mendes (2016)
    Emotional and catchy, this song connected with listeners everywhere.
13. Starboy – The Weeknd (2016)
    Stylish and atmospheric, perfect for late-night playlists.
14. Send My Love (To Your New Lover) – Adele (2016)
    Upbeat and empowering with Adele’s unmistakable voice.
15. Treat You Better – Shawn Mendes (2016)
    A heartfelt pop anthem that still resonates today.
16. Cold Water – Major Lazer featuring Justin Bieber (2016)
    A chilled yet uplifting track that defined summer.
17. Lean On – Major Lazer (2016)
    Global sounds met pop success in this unforgettable hit.
18. No Money – Galantis (2016)
    Energetic, bright, and perfect for dancing.
19. Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur (2016)
    A modern classic that brought emotional balance to the charts.
20. We Own the Night – Tiesto featuring Wolfpack (2016)
    An uplifting dance anthem that still shines at events.

Why These Songs Still Work So Well Today

What makes the top songs from 2016 so special is their versatility. They fit seamlessly into weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and private parties. They are familiar without being overplayed and energetic without being overwhelming.

From the first beat drop to the final chorus, these songs create shared moments. They encourage people to sing, dance, smile, and celebrate together. That timeless quality is why 2016 remains such a favourite year for DJs and music lovers alike.

2016 Music and the Party Connection

If you’ve ever been at a party where one of these songs comes on, you know the reaction. Heads turn, feet move, and the atmosphere lifts instantly. A great DJ understands how to blend these tracks perfectly with other eras to keep the energy flowing all night long.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday celebration, or special event, music from 2016 adds warmth, fun, and familiarity that guests genuinely love.

Make Your Event Unforgettable

If these songs brought back great memories, imagine hearing them played at your own celebration, mixed seamlessly by an experienced professional who knows exactly when to drop the perfect track.

For a reliable, friendly, and knowledgeable DJ who understands how to create unforgettable moments, take the next step and book with confidence here:
https://www.djsondemand.co.uk/dj-hire-prices/

Your party deserves great music, great energy, and a soundtrack everyone will remember.