Ariana Grande, the powerhouse vocalist with a four-octave range and an ever-growing list of record-breaking hits, has taken the world by storm since her debut. From her humble beginnings as a Nickelodeon star to becoming one of the most influential pop icons of her generation, Ariana’s music transcends genres, emotions, and boundaries. Her songs are not just chart-toppers—they’re anthems that define moments, spark joy, and resonate deeply with millions of fans worldwide.

In this article, we’ll dive into the ultimate playlist of Ariana Grande’s top 10 most popular songs of all time. Whether it’s her sultry R&B vibes, infectious pop beats, or empowering lyrics, each track showcases her evolution as an artist and a storyteller. You’ll relive the magic of her iconic ballads, groove to her dance-worthy hits, and find yourself singing along to every unforgettable chorus.

From early classics like The Way to global sensations like Thank U, Next and 7 Rings, this list captures the best of Ari’s career—moments that cemented her place in music history. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let’s celebrate the songs that made Ariana Grande a living legend! 1.

“Thank U, Next” (2018) When Ariana Grande dropped “Thank U, Next” in 2018, it wasn’t just another breakup anthem—it was a cultural reset. The song is a bold and refreshing declaration of growth, where Ariana thanks her past relationships not with bitterness, but with sincere gratitude. She names her exes unapologetically—Big Sean, Ricky Alvarez, Pete Davidson, and Mac Miller—each line revealing how they helped shape who she is.

Instead of wallowing in heartbreak, Ariana flips the narrative and turns personal trials into a powerful message of self-love and evolution. Musically, the track pairs a sleek R&B-pop beat with an irresistibly catchy hook, making it as enjoyable as it is meaningful. The phrase “thank u, next” quickly entered everyday language, symbolizing moving forward with grace and confidence.

What’s remarkable is how Ariana manages to be vulnerable and empowered all at once, offering listeners a glimpse into her emotional maturity while delivering one of the most iconic pop tracks of the decade. The song’s message—that our past doesn’t define us, but teaches us—is universal, and Ariana’s ability to communicate that with such honesty is part of what makes “Thank U, Next” so enduring. 2.

“7 Rings” (2019) “7 Rings” arrived in 2019 as a fierce celebration of luxury, friendship, and female empowerment. Ariana Grande confidently takes center stage in this track, blending a modern trap beat with an unexpected interpolation of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “My Favorite Things.” It’s a bold reimagining of a classic, transformed into an anthem about success and indulgence. Inspired by a real-life shopping spree where Ariana bought matching rings for herself and six close friends, the song is unapologetically glamorous.

She proudly flaunts her independence, wealth, and ability to spoil herself and those she loves—turning materialism into a symbol of self-love and loyalty. With lines like “I want it, I got it,” Ariana embraces her achievements without hesitation. The track’s minimalistic, icy production and confident delivery make it both catchy and commanding.

Critics and fans alike praised its audacity and flair, though it also stirred conversation about cultural influences and artistic sampling. Regardless, “7 Rings” stands tall as a confident declaration of ownership—of one’s identity, success, and happiness. It’s more than just a song about money; it’s about claiming your space in the world and not waiting for permission to shine.

3. “No Tears Left to Cry” (2018) “No Tears Left to Cry” marked Ariana Grande’s emotionally charged return to music in 2018, following the tragic Manchester Arena bombing the previous year. Rather than dwell solely in grief, Ariana crafted a song that beautifully balances sorrow with resilience.

The track begins with a soft, melancholic introduction that quickly morphs into an upbeat, danceable pop rhythm—mirroring the emotional transition from heartbreak to hope. Lyrically, Ariana acknowledges the pain but makes it clear she’s choosing to move forward, singing with strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Her vocal performance is soaring and expressive, capturing the whirlwind of emotions behind the lyrics.

The production is polished and layered, drawing from house, R&B, and pop influences to create a sound that’s both modern and uplifting. “No Tears Left to Cry” resonated deeply with fans, many of whom saw it as a beacon of healing during a dark time. It showcased Ariana’s growth not only as a vocalist but as an artist unafraid to process trauma through her music.

The song isn’t just about survival—it’s about choosing joy in the face of adversity, and that’s what makes it unforgettable. 4. “Into You” (2016) With “Into You”, released in 2016, Ariana Grande gave pop music one of its most intoxicating slow-burn hits.

The song pulses with a hypnotic beat, seductive lyrics, and a sleek electro-pop sound that builds tension from the first note to the last. It’s a masterclass in romantic anticipation, capturing the thrill and uncertainty of a passionate encounter. Ariana’s vocals glide effortlessly through verses that are both vulnerable and suggestive, exploding into a chorus that demands attention.

Her delivery is confident, yet emotionally raw—balancing the desire to take a relationship deeper with the fear of losing control. The production, layered with shimmering synths and driving bass, gives the track a late-night, club-ready vibe without sacrificing its emotional core. “Into You” was widely praised for its polished sound and mature tone, showing a more sultry side of Ariana that still felt authentically her.

It’s a song that speaks to anyone who’s ever teetered on the edge of infatuation, caught between excitement and uncertainty. To this day, it remains one of Ariana’s most beloved and critically acclaimed songs, proving that pop can be both smart and irresistibly sexy. 5.

“Problem” ft. Iggy Azalea (2014) “Problem” exploded onto the music scene in 2014, marking a pivotal moment in Ariana Grande’s rise to pop stardom. Featuring Australian rapper Iggy Azalea and backed by a slick, saxophone-driven beat, the song mixes retro vibes with a modern pop sound. Lyrically, Ariana sings about the internal tug-of-war that comes with a toxic relationship—knowing she should walk away but feeling that magnetic pull to stay.

It’s an anthem for anyone who’s struggled to break free from someone they know isn’t good for them. The whispery pre-chorus, booming chorus, and catchy hook made it an instant earworm. The contrast between Ariana’s high, controlled vocals and Iggy’s bold rap verse added an exciting dynamic to the track, helping it stand out in a crowded pop landscape.

“Problem” became one of the biggest hits of the year, earning multiple awards and charting globally. It also showcased Ariana’s evolving image, introducing a bolder and more confident persona. With its infectious energy, clever production, and empowering message, “Problem” wasn’t just a radio hit—it was a declaration that Ariana Grande was here to stay.

6. “Break Free” ft. Zedd (2014) “Break Free”, Ariana Grande’s electrifying collaboration with EDM producer Zedd, burst onto the scene in 2014 as a full-blown declaration of independence and personal power. Departing from her earlier, softer pop sound, this track dives headfirst into a high-energy electronic realm, blending pulsing synths with an explosive beat that’s tailor-made for the dance floor.

Lyrically, Ariana sings about releasing herself from the grip of a stifling relationship, finally realizing her own strength and reclaiming her voice. “This is the part when I say I don’t want ya,” she belts, a line that quickly became an empowering mantra for fans everywhere. Zedd’s production adds a futuristic, spacey vibe, perfectly complementing Ariana’s dynamic vocal range, which soars with conviction.

The song’s message of liberation and self-assurance resonated across age groups and backgrounds, helping it become one of the defining anthems of the 2010s. For Ariana, “Break Free” wasn’t just a hit—it marked a transformation, signaling her evolution from rising star to global pop powerhouse. It encouraged listeners to break the chains of anything holding them back—whether in love, life, or self-doubt—and dance their way into a freer, bolder future.

7. “Side to Side” ft. Nicki Minaj (2016) When Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj joined forces for “Side to Side” in 2016, the result was a steamy, reggae-pop fusion that turned heads and raised eyebrows—in the best way. With its island-inspired rhythm, bold innuendos, and flirtatious lyrics, the track explores themes of physical attraction and sensuality with playful confidence.

Ariana’s sultry vocal delivery, paired with Nicki’s commanding verse, makes for an unforgettable combination of sweetness and swagger. The song’s title, paired with its gym-themed music video, cheekily alludes to post-romantic exhaustion—something Ariana sings about with a wink and a nod. The reggae-pop beat is refreshing and infectious, offering a laid-back groove that invites listeners to move without even realizing it.

Nicki’s rap brings an extra layer of edge and charisma, solidifying the track as a standout on the Dangerous Woman album. “Side to Side” became a chart-topping hit, widely praised for its boldness and catchy hook. It showcased Ariana’s willingness to push boundaries, blending provocative storytelling with polished pop production.

At its core, it’s a song about owning your desires and enjoying your power—an unapologetic bop that’s as fun as it is fearless. 8. “Dangerous Woman” (2016) “Dangerous Woman”, the title track of Ariana Grande’s 2016 album, marks a moment of bold transformation in her career.

With its sultry blues-rock guitar, smoky vocal tone, and lyrics dripping with seduction and confidence, the song introduces a more mature and self-assured version of Ariana. Gone are the bubblegum-pop sensibilities of her earlier work—instead, “Dangerous Woman” reveals an artist who’s in full control of her power, exploring themes of sensuality, independence, and emotional complexity. Ariana’s vocal performance is nothing short of captivating.

She glides through soft verses with grace, only to unleash her full vocal strength in the chorus, showcasing her impressive range and emotional control. The song feels cinematic, like the soundtrack to a femme fatale’s entrance, wrapped in mystery and allure. Critics praised its sophisticated sound and empowering message, recognizing it as a defining moment that elevated her artistic credibility.

For listeners, “Dangerous Woman” isn’t just about romantic allure—it’s about standing tall in your own skin, embracing your desires, and not apologizing for your strength. It’s one of Ariana’s most iconic tracks, embodying the confident, fearless woman she had grown into. 9.

“Positions” (2020) Released in the thick of 2020’s global uncertainty, “Positions” offered a dose of light, intimacy, and elegance from Ariana Grande. Blending breezy pop with smooth R&B, the track finds Ariana exploring romantic devotion and adaptability, playfully highlighting her ability to shift between different roles—whether as a lover, leader, or partner. The lyrics are confident but soft-spoken, suggesting a woman who knows her worth and isn’t afraid to commit, but only on her own terms.

“Switchin’ the positions for you,” she croons, hinting at both literal and metaphorical flexibility in love. The production is minimalist yet luxurious, driven by delicate strings, finger snaps, and a gentle beat that keeps things flowing without ever overpowering her voice. Ariana’s delivery is refined and graceful, showcasing her vocal control in a more understated way compared to her powerhouse ballads.

The track debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, further proving her staying power and ability to evolve with the times. “Positions” is a song of quiet strength, capturing a woman confidently navigating love and leadership—effortlessly balancing sensitivity with power in a year that demanded both. 10.

“Love Me Harder” ft. The Weeknd (2014) “Love Me Harder”, Ariana Grande’s haunting collaboration with The Weeknd, is a sensual slow jam that digs deep into emotional vulnerability and physical intimacy. Released in 2014, the track blends moody synth-pop with R&B atmospherics, creating a seductive soundscape that stands apart from typical radio hits.

The song’s lyrics center on a plea for deeper love—not just affection, but intensity and truth. Ariana’s soft yet aching delivery perfectly contrasts with The Weeknd’s darker, brooding tone, creating a magnetic tension between their voices. The production is sleek and layered, letting the emotion breathe while gradually building to a climax that mirrors the song’s emotional urgency.

It was a pivotal moment for both artists: for Ariana, it showed her depth and versatility beyond bubblegum pop; for The Weeknd, it introduced his sound to a broader mainstream audience. “Love Me Harder” received critical acclaim for its mature themes and sophisticated sound, cementing it as one of the most compelling collaborations in either artist’s catalog. It’s a song that whispers before it roars—a testament to longing, honesty, and the desire to be fully known and loved without compromise.