In this article, we explore the varied and vibrant universe of Maroon 5, a group celebrated for its infectious tunes and Adam Levine’s unique voice. Tracing their journey from the beginning to their recent chart-toppers, Maroon 5 has created an array of tracks that have captivated audiences globally.
We’ve carefully combed through their wide-ranging discography to present to you what we consider the 27 Best Maroon 5 songs. These are ranked from the absolute finest to those that, although still excellent, don’t quite reach the same peak.
1. “Sugar”
“Sugar” is a standout track by Maroon 5, released in 2015 as part of their fifth studio album, ‘V’. It’s famous for its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics. The song’s music video, featuring surprise performances at weddings, went viral, adding to its charm. The track has a unique blend of pop and soul, making it an infectious rhythm and a wedding favorite.
2. “Moves Like Jagger” (feat. Christina Aguilera)
Released in 2011, “Moves Like Jagger” features a collaboration with Christina Aguilera. It’s known for its funky beat and memorable chorus. The song, blending pop-rock with electronic elements, was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide. Its theme, inspired by Mick Jagger’s iconic dance moves, adds to its unforgettable appeal.
3. “She Will Be Loved”
“She Will Be Loved,” from their debut album ‘Songs About Jane’ (2002), showcases Maroon 5’s softer, more emotional side. The song’s narrative, revolving around a complicated love story, resonates with many. Its acoustic style, combined with Adam Levine’s expressive vocals, makes it a poignant and enduring hit.
4. “This Love”
“This Love,” another hit from ‘Songs About Jane’, was a breakout success for Maroon 5. Released in 2004, it’s recognized for its compelling melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song, with a mix of pop-rock and R&B, reflects themes of love and heartache. Its critical and commercial success helped establish the band’s presence in the music industry.
5. “Payphone” (feat. Wiz Khalifa)
“Payphone,” released in 2012 as part of the album ‘Overexposed’, features rapper Wiz Khalifa. This track combines pop with a hint of rap and revolves around themes of love, loss, and nostalgia. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics have resonated with a wide audience, making it a significant hit for the band.
6. “Girls Like You” (feat. Cardi B)
A recent hit from their album ‘Red Pill Blues’ (2017), “Girls Like You” features rapper Cardi B. The song gained widespread popularity for its catchy tune and star-studded music video, which features numerous iconic women. Its easy-going rhythm and inclusive theme have made it a chart-topping success.
7. “Animals”
“Animals,” released in 2014 as part of the album ‘V’, is known for its raw energy and powerful chorus. The song’s theme, exploring obsessive love, is delivered through a mix of pop-rock elements. Its edgy sound and compelling lyrics have made it a memorable track in Maroon 5’s discography.
8. “Sunday Morning”
From their debut album, “Sunday Morning” is a laid-back, jazzy tune that has become a timeless classic. Released in 2004, the song is loved for its soothing melody and relaxed vibe. Its blend of pop, jazz, and soul, along with its uplifting lyrics, makes it a perennial favorite among fans.
9. “One More Night”
Released in 2012, “One More Night” is from the album ‘Overexposed’. This song’s catchy beat and relatable lyrics about conflicted feelings in a relationship have made it a fan favorite. Its reggae-infused pop style and memorable chorus contributed to its success as a chart-topping hit.
10. “Maps”
“Maps,” from the album ‘V’ (2014), is an energetic track that combines a compelling beat with emotional lyrics. The song talks about the struggles and persistence in a troubled relationship. Its blend of pop-rock elements and catchy melody has made it popular among both fans and critics.
11. “Harder to Breathe”
“Harder to Breathe” marked the advent of Maroon 5’s unique sound in the music world. Released in 2002 as part of their debut album ‘Songs About Jane’, the song is a blend of rock and funk influences. Its lyrics, filled with emotional intensity and frustration, are complemented by a catchy, guitar-driven melody. This track not only established the band’s presence but also set the tone for their future musical endeavors.
12. “Makes Me Wonder”
“Makes Me Wonder,” a Grammy-winning hit from the album ‘It Won’t Be Soon Before Long’ (2007), is celebrated for its upbeat tempo and intriguing lyrics. The song reflects a departure from the band’s earlier sound, incorporating more electronic elements. Its lyrics, expressing confusion and disillusionment with a relationship and the political climate, combined with a catchy beat, made it a chart-topping success.
13. “Misery”
From the 2010 album ‘Hands All Over’, “Misery” showcases Maroon 5’s dynamic style with a perfect blend of pop-rock elements. The song, known for its energetic beat and catchy melody, talks about the desperation and pain in love. Its vibrant music video, featuring a mix of action and dance, complements the song’s lively nature.
14. “Wake Up Call”
“Wake Up Call,” released in 2007 from the album ‘It Won’t Be Soon Before Long’, stands out with a darker theme. The song combines a catchy hook with strong, expressive vocals from Adam Levine. Its narrative, revolving around a cheating partner, is portrayed through a blend of pop-rock elements, making it both edgy and melodically appealing.
15. “Won’t Go Home Without You”
“Won’t Go Home Without You,” from ‘It Won’t Be Soon Before Long’, is a melodic tune reflecting Maroon 5’s softer side. Released in 2007, the song blends a pop-rock sound with emotive lyrics about longing and regret in a relationship. Its chorus is memorable and resonant, showcasing the band’s ability to mix deep emotions with catchy rhythms.
16. “Love Somebody”
“Love Somebody,” part of the 2012 album ‘Overexposed’, is known for its electronic beat and passionate lyrics. The song’s contemporary style, featuring a blend of synth-pop and dance elements, marks a further evolution in the band’s sound. Its theme, revolving around the desire and complexity of love, resonates with a broad audience.
17. “Memories”
Released in 2019, “Memories” is a recent hit from the album ‘Jordi’. This song stands out for its sentimental value and nostalgic feel. Its melody is based on Pachelbel’s Canon, blending classical influences with modern pop. The lyrics, reflecting on loss and remembrance, have a universal appeal, making it a poignant addition to the band’s repertoire.
18. “If I Never See Your Face Again”
A dynamic collaboration with Rihanna, “If I Never See Your Face Again” offers a unique blend of styles. Featured in the re-release of ‘It Won’t Be Soon Before Long’ in 2008, the song combines Maroon 5’s pop-rock sound with Rihanna’s R&B style. Its edgy and sensual vibe, along with the powerful chemistry between the artists, makes it a standout track.
19. “Daylight”
“Daylight,” from the 2012 album ‘Overexposed’, captures the essence of fleeting moments and lasting memories. The song’s reflective lyrics, combined with a soaring melody, evoke a sense of bittersweet farewell and acceptance. Its heartfelt and universal theme of parting ways resonates deeply with listeners, further showcasing Maroon 5’s lyrical and musical depth.
20. “Cold” (feat. Future)
“Cold,” featuring rapper Future, is a blend of pop and hip-hop elements. Released in 2017, the track is part of the album ‘Red Pill Blues’. The song’s contemporary sound, marked by its electronic beats and Future’s distinctive rap verse, creates an intriguing collaboration. Its theme, dealing with a tumultuous relationship, adds to the song’s complex and modern appeal.
21. “What Lovers Do” (feat. SZA)
“What Lovers Do,” featuring R&B artist SZA, is a playful and energetic track from Maroon 5’s sixth studio album, ‘Red Pill Blues’ (2017). The song highlights a different, more experimental side of the band, blending pop with elements of funk and soul. Its catchy melody and SZA’s smooth vocals complement each other, creating a lighthearted and flirtatious vibe. The track’s upbeat rhythm and engaging lyrics have made it a favorite among fans.
22. “Don’t Wanna Know” (feat. Kendrick Lamar)
“Don’t Wanna Know,” featuring Kendrick Lamar, is a standout pop hit from the ‘Red Pill Blues’ album (2017). The song is known for its infectious beat and the memorable rap verse by Kendrick Lamar. It diverges from Maroon 5’s typical sound, incorporating more electronic and tropical influences. The track’s theme of wanting to remain ignorant of an ex’s new life struck a chord with audiences, adding to its commercial success.
23. “Wait”
“Wait,” from the album ‘Red Pill Blues’, showcases Maroon 5’s knack for crafting catchy choruses and relatable lyrics. Released in 2017, the song blends pop with electronic elements, creating a rhythm that’s both engaging and reflective. The lyrics, which talk about the complexities and regrets in a relationship, are set to a backdrop of a smooth and rhythmic melody, making it a compelling listen.
24. “Nobody’s Love”
“Nobody’s Love” is a recent track that reflects Maroon 5’s evolving sound. Released in 2020, the song is part of their seventh studio album, ‘Jordi’. It features a more laid-back and reggae-influenced beat, highlighting a different aspect of the band’s musical range. The lyrics, focusing on the importance of a singular love in difficult times, resonate with the contemporary context, adding depth to its catchy rhythm.
25. “Lucky Strike”
“Lucky Strike,” from the album ‘Overexposed’ (2012), is a vibrant song that combines Maroon 5’s signature pop-rock sound with energetic beats. The track is known for its lively tempo and catchy melody, along with lyrics that capture the exhilaration of love and attraction. Its upbeat nature and infectious chorus have made it a popular track in live performances.
26. “Give a Little More”
“Give a Little More,” featured on the album ‘Hands All Over’ (2010), stands out for its funky rhythm and lively tempo. The song showcases the band’s ability to blend pop-rock with funk influences, creating a danceable and upbeat track. The lyrics, suggestive and playful, are delivered with Adam Levine’s characteristic smooth vocals, adding to the song’s energetic and enticing vibe.
27. “Must Get Out”
“Must Get Out,” a lesser-known track from the album ‘Songs About Jane’ (2002), is a hidden gem that showcases Maroon 5’s early sound and lyrical sincerity. The song features a mix of pop and soft rock elements, highlighted by acoustic guitar and piano. Its introspective lyrics, dealing with the desire for change and escape, exhibit the band’s depth and versatility in songwriting. Despite being less commercial, it’s a testament to their early musical identity.