Ariana Grande—an undeniable pop powerhouse, a vocal virtuoso, and a cultural icon. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to becoming one of the most streamed artists on the planet, Ariana has captured hearts and dominated charts with her unmatched talent and signature style. With a voice that soars into the stratosphere and lyrics that resonate across generations, she’s delivered anthem after anthem, solidifying her place as one of the greatest artists of our time.
But what are the songs that truly define her legacy? The tracks that made us dance, cry, fall in love, and scream the lyrics at the top of our lungs? This list dives into the top 10 most popular Ariana Grande songs of all time—hits that shaped her career and became the soundtrack to millions of lives.
From sultry ballads to empowering bops, these songs showcase her impressive range, infectious energy, and emotional depth. Whether you’re an Arianator or a casual listener, prepare to rediscover the magic of Ariana Grande’s music. Let’s count down the absolute best tracks that have cemented her status as pop royalty.
Get ready to sing along—this is a playlist you won’t forget! 1. Thank U, Next (2018) Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next,” released in 2018, became an instant classic, capturing the spirit of empowerment and personal growth in a way few songs do.
The track, a breakup anthem at its core, flips the narrative on traditional heartache songs by embracing gratitude over bitterness. Ariana reflects on her past relationships in a way that is not only mature but also emotionally intelligent, acknowledging her growth and the lessons learned. With its catchy chorus and conversational lyrics, the song became a cultural moment, resonating deeply with listeners who saw themselves in Ariana’s message of resilience.
The lyrics, such as “One taught me love, one taught me patience,” represent a journey of self-discovery and the process of finding strength in vulnerability. The infectious hook and the way Ariana effortlessly switches between playful and introspective makes “Thank U, Next” more than just a catchy pop song—it’s an anthem for moving forward. Its empowering message and bold approach to navigating love and self-worth have made it one of Ariana’s defining tracks, not just a hit, but a reflection of growth and self-love that continues to inspire her global fanbase.
2. 7 Rings (2019) Released in 2019, Ariana Grande’s “7 Rings” marked a bold shift in both her musical style and persona. Inspired by a spontaneous shopping spree with her closest friends, the song is an unapologetic celebration of wealth, luxury, and independence.
It’s a track that radiates confidence, with Ariana singing about the power of friendship and self-reward, turning what could be seen as materialistic into a statement of self-sufficiency. The song is built around an interpolation of “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music, creating a catchy, melodic hook that contrasts perfectly with the trap beats and heavy bass. The upbeat and playful vibe of the track makes it a standout in Ariana’s discography, offering both a fun and empowering anthem for those who believe in rewarding themselves for hard work and resilience.
With lyrics that champion independence, “7 Rings” is not just a brag song; it’s a declaration of power and success, both personal and collective. The visual aesthetics of the music video, paired with its catchy rhythm, cemented “7 Rings” as one of Ariana’s most memorable and genre-defying tracks, creating a legacy that’s both luxurious and deeply personal. 3.
No Tears Left to Cry (2018) Ariana Grande’s “No Tears Left to Cry,” released in 2018, is an uplifting and emotional anthem that marked her return to music after the tragic Manchester Arena bombing. The song strikes a delicate balance between introspection and optimism, offering hope and healing through its dreamy production and powerful lyrics. The track opens with a subtle, almost ethereal melody, gradually building to an infectious, danceable beat.
The lyrics, which include the poignant line “Right now, I’m in a state of mind / I wanna be in like all the time,” reflect Ariana’s emotional resilience and determination to keep moving forward. It’s a song about choosing joy and self-care despite life’s challenges, reminding listeners that even after deep sorrow, there is space for joy. The seamless transition between ballad-like verses and euphoric choruses captures the essence of moving through hardship and embracing hope.
“No Tears Left to Cry” is more than just a catchy pop song—it’s a powerful expression of strength and recovery, perfectly embodying Ariana’s journey through a difficult time in her life. It’s an uplifting track that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, making it one of her most personal and transformative songs. 4.
Into You (2016) Released in 2016, “Into You” stands out as one of Ariana Grande’s most seductive and hypnotic tracks. The song is a sultry, pulsating pop masterpiece that explores the intensity of infatuation and desire. With its infectious beat and deep, thumping bass, “Into You” immediately pulls you in, creating an atmosphere that’s both sensual and captivating.
Ariana’s vocals are on full display here, effortlessly moving between breathy verses and powerful, soaring choruses. The lyrics, with their playful yet earnest exploration of love and lust, are delivered with such confidence that they feel both vulnerable and empowering at once. The track’s energy is electrifying, with a steady build that creates tension and release, capturing the feeling of longing and the thrill of romantic pursuit.
Ariana’s ability to blend seductive allure with emotional depth makes “Into You” a standout in her career. The song is not just about the surface-level excitement of love; it’s about the all-consuming nature of attraction, and the way it can take over both body and mind. With its timeless vibe and hypnotic rhythm, “Into You” remains one of her most enduring hits.
5. Side to Side (2016) In 2016, Ariana Grande teamed up with rapper Nicki Minaj for “Side to Side,” a song that introduced a refreshing blend of reggae-inspired pop to the charts. The track’s infectious beat, smooth tropical rhythm, and playful lyrics make it impossible not to move along to.
The song’s seductive vibe, paired with its catchy hook, perfectly encapsulates the chemistry between Ariana and Nicki, who both deliver their verses with a fiery, confident energy. “Side to Side” explores the themes of love and physical attraction, but it also plays with the idea of confidence and empowerment, with Ariana and Nicki both owning their sensuality in the lyrics. The track’s laid-back reggae vibe stands in contrast to its bold subject matter, making it a unique and unforgettable hit.
“Side to Side” became a fan favorite and a staple on dance floors, with its catchy chorus and rhythmic groove solidifying its place as one of Ariana’s most iconic tracks. Its lighthearted and fun nature makes it a song that’s not just about the message but about the experience—creating an anthem for those who aren’t afraid to embrace their desires and their power. 6.
Break Free (2014) “Break Free,” featuring Zedd, marked a significant shift in Ariana Grande’s musical style when it was released in 2014. The song is a high-energy, electro-pop anthem that perfectly encapsulates the theme of liberation and independence. From its pulsating beats to its soaring chorus, “Break Free” is about breaking away from constraints, whether they be emotional, relational, or societal.
The track is built around a driving electronic beat that keeps the energy up throughout, with Ariana’s vocals carrying a sense of empowerment and defiance. The lyrics speak to a longing for freedom, with Ariana proclaiming, “This is the part when I say I don’t want ya / I’m stronger than I’ve been before.” It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt held back or trapped and is ready to break free. With its infectious rhythm and empowering message, “Break Free” quickly became a dance-floor anthem.
The collaboration with Zedd brings a futuristic, electro-pop feel that perfectly complements Ariana’s voice, creating a sound that is both fresh and timeless. “Break Free” remains one of her most energetic and bold tracks, a true celebration of personal freedom. 7.
Problem (2014) “Problem,” featuring Iggy Azalea, was a defining track for Ariana Grande when it was released in 2014. Combining brassy horns, a catchy saxophone riff, and a powerful beat, the song delivers a blend of old-school jazz influence with modern pop sensibilities. Lyrically, “Problem” explores a tumultuous, love-hate relationship, with Ariana acknowledging the conflict between desire and frustration.
Her powerful, breathy vocals contrast perfectly with the harder, sassier rap verses from Iggy Azalea, creating a dynamic energy that makes the song even more exciting. The lyrics explore themes of conflict and independence, with Ariana admitting, “I’ve got one less problem without you,” reinforcing the song’s central theme of self-worth and freedom. The song’s unique blend of pop, jazz, and hip-hop influences makes it stand out in Ariana’s catalog, showcasing her ability to experiment with genres and push the boundaries of pop music.
The catchy sax riff, paired with Ariana’s vocal acrobatics, ensures that “Problem” remains a fan favorite. It’s a song that’s both empowering and fun, offering a catchy anthem for anyone who’s ready to let go of toxic relationships and move on with their lives. 8.
Dangerous Woman (2016) The title track from Ariana Grande’s 2016 album, “Dangerous Woman,” is a sultry, sensual anthem that celebrates confidence, strength, and allure. From the moment the song begins, with its smooth guitar riffs and slow-building intensity, it’s clear that this is a track unlike any other in Ariana’s discography. The lyrics explore themes of independence and self-assuredness, with Ariana singing about owning her sensuality and being unapologetic in her strength.
“Dangerous Woman” has a timeless quality, blending elements of R&B, pop, and soul to create a sophisticated and seductive vibe. Ariana’s vocals are powerful and emotive, filled with a depth that perfectly matches the song’s themes of empowerment. It’s a track that speaks to the complexity of being a woman—embracing one’s vulnerability while also wielding strength and confidence.
The music video complements the song’s message, showcasing Ariana’s transformation into a self-assured figure who owns her power and sensuality. “Dangerous Woman” stands as a defining moment in Ariana’s career, showing her growth as an artist and her ability to combine vulnerability with strength in a way that resonates deeply with her audience. 9.
God Is a Woman (2018) “God Is a Woman,” released in 2018, is an ethereal and empowering track that celebrates the divine power of femininity. With its sweeping production, lush instrumentation, and layered vocals, the song creates an otherworldly atmosphere that draws the listener in. The lyrics explore themes of spiritual and physical power, with Ariana boldly declaring that “God is a woman,” a metaphor for the divine feminine energy that resides in all women.
The song’s sensual and spiritual tone is complemented by its celestial visuals in the music video, where Ariana embodies the idea of a goddess, reinforcing the message of feminine strength and grace. The production, which blends elements of pop, R&B, and soul, creates a mesmerizing soundscape that feels both intimate and grand. The song is not just a celebration of women but a powerful statement on the strength and beauty that comes with embracing one’s identity and power.
“God Is a Woman” is a bold, feminist anthem that showcases Ariana’s ability to blend spirituality with sensuality, creating a track that is as empowering as it is captivating. 10. Positions (2020) “Positions,” the title track from Ariana Grande’s 2020 album, blends pop and R&B with a sleek, sultry vibe that showcases her versatility as an artist.
The song’s production features smooth, intricate rhythms, paired with Ariana’s airy, seductive vocals, creating a sound that is both playful and intimate. The song’s lyrics reflect the balancing act that comes with managing multiple roles in life, with Ariana singing about being willing to shift between positions for the sake of love and personal fulfillment. The central metaphor of the song plays with the idea of adaptability and the effort that goes into maintaining a relationship while juggling life’s demands.
With its catchy hook and confident delivery, “Positions” became an instant hit, resonating with listeners who appreciated its blend of sensuality and relatability. The song showcases Ariana’s ability to be both vulnerable and confident, navigating complex emotions with ease. The music video, with its glamorous visuals and playful scenes, perfectly complements the song’s theme of versatility and commitment, reinforcing Ariana’s reputation as a pop powerhouse.