As we cross the threshold into a new year, it’s time to look back on the songs that defined the past 12 months and capture the zeitgeist. 2023 offered no shortage of captivating music across genres old and new.
From pop sensations like Billie Eilish to indie darlings Big Thief, veterans like Peter Gabriel to rising stars like Jorja Smith, this year’s sonic landscape features both familiar favorites and fresh new voices. Whether grappling with existential questions, exploring intimacy, providing escape, or sounding the alarm, these songs meet listeners wherever they are.
As our annual tradition dictates, our team of experts dove in to identify the 27 best songs of 2023 that moved, inspired, and soundtracked our lives. Read on as we break down the meanings, creative high points, and indelible moments that made these songs soar. Let the musical journey begin!
1. What Was I Made For? by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” is a haunting reflection on identity and purpose, featured in the movie “Barbie.” The song, released on July 13, 2023, delves into existential themes and the singer’s struggles with depression. It highlights a realization of being created for others’ consumption, mirroring the film’s narrative about self-awareness and finding one’s place in the world. This track stands out in 2023 for its introspective nature, aligning with contemporary music’s trend towards reflective and profound subject matter.
2. Name of God by Mustafa
“Name of God” by Mustafa, released on October 18, 2023, is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and faith. The song, deeply personal, pays tribute to Mustafa’s late brother, a victim of gun violence. It depicts a tumultuous relationship and reflects on Mustafa’s relationship with Islam. “Name of God” resonates for its emotional depth and the artist’s personal connection to themes of grief and spirituality, marking it as a significant musical piece of 2023.
3. A&W by Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s “A&W,” released on February 14, 2023, is a genre-blending masterpiece, combining folk, trap, and pop ballad elements. Featured on her album “Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd,” the song has been praised as one of the year’s best. “A&W” showcases Del Rey’s innovative approach to music, blending diverse styles and introspective lyrics. Its acclaim in 2023 is a testament to the evolving landscape of music, where artists experiment with various musical forms and delve into personal themes.
4. Road to Joy by Peter Gabriel
“Road to Joy” by Peter Gabriel is an emotive song about near-death experiences and locked-in syndrome, a condition where people are unable to communicate or move. Gabriel explains it as a narrative of a person in a coma who eventually comes back to life. Originating from an earlier project, the song was released on June 4, 2023, as the sixth single from his album “I/O.” Co-produced by Brian Eno, this track is a poignant exploration of the human brain and perception.
5. Will Anybody Ever Love Me? by Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens’ “Will Anybody Ever Love Me?” is a deeply emotional track that explores themes of insecurity, longing for love, and a desire for acceptance. Released on September 13, 2023, as the second single from his album “Javelin,” the song paints a picture of a person feeling rejected and isolated, desperately seeking unconditional love. The music video features various landscapes, each with a portal to another, symbolizing a never-ending journey in search of authentic love.
6. The Narcissist by Blur
“The Narcissist” by Blur, released in June 2023, delves into themes of self-obsession and addiction to one’s own image. The introspective and melancholic lyrics, sung by frontman Damon Albarn, portray a distorted self-reflection and the struggle for validation. The song is an exploration of self-identity and the quest for transcendence, making it a significant track in Blur’s discography.
7. Sprinter by Central Cee x Dave
“Sprinter,” a collaboration between Central Cee and Dave, released on June 1, 2023, is a vibrant song about cars, girls, and accumulating wealth. The title is a nod to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van, symbolizing the artists’ success and lifestyle. The lyrics boast about their wealth, success, and personal challenges, painted with witty wordplay and cultural references, showcasing unapologetic confidence.
8. Lydia by Margo Price
“Lydia” by Margo Price, released on September 1, 2023, is a powerful narrative about a woman named Lydia facing numerous struggles and hardships. The song touches on themes of addiction, societal judgment, resilience, and personal choice. Price’s storytelling is backed by simple strings and guitar, offering a glimpse into a secret part of the artist’s life, involving critical decisions about bodily autonomy.
9. Try Me by Jorja Smith
Jorja Smith’s “Try Me” is a compelling anthem of empowerment, encouraging listeners not to let others’ opinions deter them from pursuing their dreams. Released on April 13, 2023, through her own independent label, FAMM, the song was inspired by the challenges of putting oneself out there in a judgmental world. Smith’s soft yet powerful voice conveys a message of emotional resilience against criticism, making “Try Me” a significant release of the year.
10. Suspended by Sampha
“Suspended” by Sampha, released on October 20, 2023, is a heartfelt song that delves into the complexities of a past relationship. The track expresses feelings of being lifted and elevated by the transformative power of love. With Sampha’s rapid-fire delivery, the song creates moments of cool unease, reflecting on the emotional weight of love and the longing for a past connection. “Suspended” stands out for its introspective and poignant exploration of the intricacies of love.
11. What Now by Brittany Howard
Brittany Howard’s “What Now,” released on October 13, 2023, explores themes of self-reflection, personal growth, and accountability within a troubled relationship. The song is a part of her new album ‘WHAT NOW.’ Howard’s verse reveals her internal conflict, acknowledging her inability to fulfill the relationship and admitting to causing trouble. “What Now” is significant for its raw honesty and introspection, showcasing Howard’s powerful storytelling and vocal prowess.
12. Chosen to Deserve by Wednesday
“Chosen to Deserve,” part of Wednesday’s album “Rat Saw God,” slated for release in 2023, is a strikingly personal song. The lyrics tell a story of the protagonist’s past mistakes and wild lifestyle, revealing a narrative that resonates with many who have experienced similar life challenges. The song is known for its potent country-rock riffs and poignant lyrics, making it an album highlight and a favorite of the year.
13. Promise by Laufey
“Promise” by Laufey, released on June 14, 2023, is a captivating jazz ballad about the struggle to maintain distance from someone harmful. The song expresses the internal conflict of keeping promises to oneself while dealing with the pain of longing and broken promises. Laufey’s piano ballad is written as a story that develops with each verse, providing a deep insight into complex emotional dynamics.
14. Vampire Empire by Big Thief
“Vampire Empire” by Big Thief is a profound exploration of a dysfunctional and possibly abusive relationship. Released on July 19, 2023, the song describes a scenario of exhaustion and despair, symbolizing decay and stagnation. Vocalist Adrianne Lenker explains that the song is about escaping toxic internal patterns and learning about healthy boundaries. The track has gained a cult following, becoming a fan favorite and a staple in Big Thief’s live performances.
15. The Painter by Cody Johnson
“The Painter” by Cody Johnson, released on August 11, 2023, as the lead single from his album “Leather,” is a tender love song that illustrates the transformative power of love. It describes how Johnson’s wife Brandi brought color and joy into his life, symbolized in the lyrics “For every wall I built, she saw a canvas.” Although not written by Cody himself, it resonates deeply with his personal experiences, reflecting the vibrancy and beauty love can bring to life.
16. take over the world by jaimie branch
Jaimie Branch’s “take over the world” is a song that channels fury and urgency. The track, released posthumously, is notable for its strong political message, particularly focusing on asylum-seekers at the southern border. Branch’s powerful delivery and the true story she conveys, heard from her social-worker mother, add a layer of authenticity and poignancy to the song, making it more than just a musical piece but a statement on contemporary social issues.
17. Abstract (Psychopomp) by Hozier
Hozier’s “Abstract (Psychopomp),” released on August 18, 2023, explores themes of fleeting moments, gratitude, and the beauty in life’s impermanence. The song’s title refers to a mythical guide of souls to the afterlife, adding depth to its exploration of mortality and time. It paints a picture of moments frozen in time, reflecting on memory, reflection, love, and mortality, thus encapsulating the emotional complexity of these concepts.
18. You’re Losing Me by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s “You’re Losing Me,” from her album “Midnights,” is an emotionally charged song about the end of a non-reciprocal relationship. Released in 2023, it uses medical and autobiographical imagery to express the narrator’s pain and hopelessness. Considered one of Swift’s most emotional and heartbreaking songs, it reflects her love for “Grey’s Anatomy” and stands as a strong example of her ability to convey powerful messages through her music.
19. But Wait, There’s More by Ben Folds
Ben Folds’ “But Wait, There’s More,” released in October 2023, is a song that delves into themes of disillusionment, nostalgia, and hope amid challenging times. The track contrasts the past with the present, highlighting the changing nature of society and the human experience. It opens with a simple electric piano line and builds into a jazzy number, reflecting Folds’ signature style of blending comedy and tragedy, autobiography and satire.
20. Water by Tyla
“Water” by South African singer Tyla, released on July 28, 2023, is an amapiano song with elements of pop, R&B, and Afrobeats. As the lead single from her debut studio album, it expresses a desire for a passionate and intimate connection. The song discusses intense attraction and physical desire within a relationship, suggesting a profound physical and possibly emotional connection.
21. Tiny Garden by Jamila Woods
Jamila Woods’ “Tiny Garden,” released in 2023, is a song that celebrates the simplicity and intimacy of love. Woods likens her love for a partner to a tiny garden, valuing a slow and steady, healing relationship. Featured in her album “Water Made Us,” the song explores the complexities and vulnerabilities of love, contrasting with grand romantic gestures. It is based around bouncy percussion and sunny, marimba-esque chords, with Woods directing the music video to visually represent her feelings in relationships.
22. Dumbest Girl Alive by 100 gecs
“Dumbest Girl Alive” by 100 gecs, released on March 17, 2023, is a song that addresses the experiences and feelings associated with gender transition surgeries and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Performed by Laura Les, a trans woman, the song also touches on the theme of self-perception and the societal pressure to conform to certain expectations of intelligence. It speaks to the idea of not conforming to societal stereotypes and suggests that appearing “dumb” can be a form of rebellion or self-expression.
23. Gila Monster by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
“Gila Monster” by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, released on May 16, 2023, is a song that explores the mythical tale of a creature known as the Gila Monster. The track delves into themes of power, destruction, and the consequences of unchecked growth. The lyrics narrate the story of Gila, a giant monster that grows stronger by consuming witches and is warned to be feared by them. This imaginative song from their album “PetroDragonic Apocalypse” illustrates the band’s penchant for storytelling and conceptual creativity.
24. lacy by Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s “lacy,” featured on her album “Guts” released on September 8, 2023, explores intense infatuation and longing for someone named Lacy. The song delves into the negative impact this infatuation can have on one’s mental state. It presents vivid descriptions of Lacy, highlighting her beauty and appeal, yet questions the protagonist’s need for this kind of intense attraction. The song’s exploration of infatuation and its effects adds a layer of emotional complexity to Rodrigo’s musical repertoire.
25. Smoke Detector by The National
“Smoke Detector” by The National, part of their upcoming album “Laugh Track” set for release in 2023, is written by Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, and Bryce Dessner. The song touches on themes of introspection, love, and the passage of time. It reflects on themes of protection, memory, and love, with repeated phrases emphasizing the need to protect someone important. This song continues The National’s tradition of introspective and emotionally resonant music.
26. kisses by Slowdive
Released on June 20, 2023, “kisses” by Slowdive is a dreamy song that explores seeking fulfillment in new experiences and the impact of fleeting moments. The song begins by acknowledging the affirmation of being significant to someone but questions the true need for such affirmation. This track, the first single off their album “everything is alive,” showcases Slowdive’s signature dream pop sound, blending hypnotic rhythms with evocative lyrics to create a captivating musical experience.
27. Bending Hectic by The Smile
“Bending Hectic” by The Smile, consisting of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, and Tom Skinner, metaphorically depicts a risky and exhilarating driving experience that symbolizes taking risks and facing the consequences of one’s choices. Released in 2023, the song uses imagery of driving too fast around a dangerous curve and the fear of falling off a cliff to represent life’s twists and turns and the unexpected occurrences that happen. This metaphorical journey captures the essence of life’s unpredictability and the intensity of its experiences.