15 Best Songs of 2005

The mid-2000s were a time of musical experimentation and innovation, with various genres dominating the airwaves. From pop and rock to hip-hop and R&B, the music of 2005 offered something for everyone. If you’re curious about what music was trending in the 2005s, look no further than our list of the best songs of 2005. We’ve compiled the most memorable tracks from this iconic year, so join us as we take a trip down memory lane and revisit the best songs of 2005.

If you’re a fan of 2005 songs, you may also enjoy songs of 2006.

We Belong Together – Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s “We Belong Together” is a timeless love song that portrays the story of two people who belong together.

The song begins with Carey’s emotive vocals delivering the opening lines, expressing the pain of a broken heart and the longing to reunite with a lost love. As the song progresses, the singer’s voice soars over a haunting piano melody.

The chorus builds to a powerful climax, declaring, “We belong together” in a passionate declaration of love. The song’s memorable melody and soulful performance make it a standout track in Carey’s impressive discography and a timeless classic of modern R&B and pop music.

Click here for “We Belong Together” lyrics

Gold Digger – Kanye West ft. Jamie Foxx

“Gold Digger” is a hip-hop classic by Kanye West and Jamie Foxx, showcasing their musical and lyrical prowess.

The song, released in 2005, is built around a sample from Ray Charles’ “I Got a Woman,” with Foxx delivering the catchy chorus. The verses, delivered by West, are a humorous take on a man’s experience with women who are only interested in his money.

The song’s production, handled by West, is characterized by a mix of soulful samples and contemporary sounds, creating a unique, classic, and modern sound. The track was a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts worldwide and solidifying West’s status as one of the biggest names in hip-hop.

Click here for “Gold Digger” lyrics

Boulevard of Broken Dreams – Green Day

“Boulevard of Broken Dreams” is a quintessential Green Day track that showcases the band’s ability to craft thought-provoking, introspective rock anthems.

The song features an atmospheric blend of guitar, bass, and drums. Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong delivers lyrics that speak to the universal experience of feeling lost and disillusioned in life. Through its poignant melody and evocative lyrics, “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of heartbreak and disappointment and to find solace in the shared experiences of those around them.

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners deeply emotionally, making it one of Green Day’s most iconic and beloved tracks.

Click here for “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” lyrics

Since U Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson

“Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson is an upbeat, high-energy pop-rock anthem that celebrates moving on from a broken relationship.

The song’s driving beat and confident lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their independence and find happiness. The song’s powerful chorus and upbeat melody make it a staple of Clarkson’s discography and a classic pop-rock hit that continues to inspire and empower listeners worldwide. Whether recovering from a breakup or looking for a little pick-me-up, “Since U Been Gone” is the perfect anthem of hope and resilience.

Click here for “Since U Been Gone” lyrics

Girlfight – Brooke Valentine ft. Lil Jon & Big Boi

“Girlfight” is a thrilling and dynamic track that combines the skills of three talented artists: Brooke Valentine, Lil Jon, and Big Boi. Brooke’s smooth and soulful voice takes center stage, delivering confident and sassy lyrics that perfectly capture the spirit of the song.

Lil Jon’s production work gives the track its high-energy, beat-driven sound, making it the perfect backdrop for Brooke’s fierce vocals. Meanwhile, Big Boi’s catchy and energetic rap verse excites the song, making it a standout cut for rap fans.

This song is a powerful statement about female strength and independence, and it’s sure to get listeners pumped up and ready for a girl fight of their own.

Click here for “Girlfight” lyrics

Mr. Brightside – The Killers

“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers is a classic emo-pop anthem that tells the story of a man’s jealousy and heartbreak as he watches the object of his affection fall in love with someone else.

With its driving drums, soaring guitars, and passionate vocals, the song is an emotional rollercoaster that takes the listener on a journey from despair to hope.

Despite the lyrics’ sadness, the music’s upbeat energy gives the song a celebratory, almost cathartic feel as the narrator decides to let go of his pain and embrace life to the fullest.

Click here for “Mr. Brightside” lyrics

Hollaback Girl – Gwen Stefani

“Hollaback Girl” is a highly energetic, pop-infused hip-hop anthem that showcases Gwen Stefani’s unique vocal style and unyielding spirit. With its infectious beat and lively, infectious chorus, the song is a celebration of self-expression and individuality.

The lyrics are straightforward but highly impactful. Stefani calls out anyone who tries to bring her down, urging listeners to stand up for themselves and never back down from confrontation. The track’s production is equally impressive, with a pulsating beat, dynamic synths, and a playful bassline that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of the early 2000s.

Overall, “Hollaback Girl” is a testament to Stefani’s skill as a performer, songwriter, and cultural icon, making it a standout track from her critically acclaimed album, “Love. Angel. Music. Baby.”

Click here for “Hollaback Girl” lyrics

Speed of Sound – Coldplay

“Speed of Sound” by Coldplay is a mesmerizing track that showcases the band’s signature blend of alternative rock and pop. The song opens with a haunting piano melody, backed by a pulsing beat that sets the pace for the rest of the tune.

Chris Martin’s emotional vocals soar over the music, delivering lyrics that delve into the theme of the fleeting nature of time and the idea that life is moving too fast. The chorus is an anthemic explosion of sound, with soaring guitar riffs and powerful drumbeats that build to a thrilling climax.

With its beautiful melody, introspective lyrics, and electrifying instrumentation, “Speed of Sound” is a powerful, moving track that showcases Coldplay’s artistry at its best.

Click here for “Speed of Sound” lyrics

Feel Good Inc. – Gorillaz

“Feel Good Inc.” is an iconic track by the British virtual band Gorillaz, showcasing the band’s signature blend of alternative, hip-hop, and electronic music.

The song explores the idea of seeking happiness and escaping reality through various means, with rap verses from De La Soul and a chorus sung by Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn. A cheerful and upbeat melody characterizes the instrumentals, complemented by electronic beats and samples, culminating in an infectious and memorable sound.

The music video for the song features the animated band members riding on a windmill-powered cityscape, adding to the whimsical and imaginative nature of the track. Overall, “Feel Good Inc.” is a standout song that solidifies Gorillaz’s place as one of the most innovative and creative bands of the 21st century.

Click here for “Feel Good Inc.” lyrics

Shake It Off – Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s “Shake It Off” is a vibrant and lively track that showcases the singer’s impressive vocal range and dynamic performance style. The song features a bouncy beat and energetic instrumentation, creating an infectious groove perfect for dancing and letting loose.

The song’s lyrics empower listeners to let go of negativity and embrace their individuality. Carey’s signature vocal style, including her signature whistle notes, is fully displayed, making this track a standout in her extensive discography.

With its upbeat message and feel-good vibe, “Shake It Off” is a must-listen for pop music fans and anyone looking to shake off the stress and enjoy some fun.

Click here for “Shake It Off” lyrics

Inside Your Heaven – Carrie Underwood

“Your Heaven Within” is an exquisitely crafted song that resonates with those who have experienced the beauty of reciprocal love. Written and performed by the multi-talented Carrie Underwood, this track showcases her powerful vocals, soulful lyrics, and undeniable emotional depth.

The song’s message is simple but profound: that love is the key to one’s heaven on earth and that there is no greater joy than to be with the one you love.

With its sweeping melody, soaring chorus, and tender lyrics, “Inside Your Heaven” has captured the hearts of millions and will undoubtedly continue to be a timeless classic for generations to come.

Click here for “Inside Your Heaven” lyrics

Raspberry Beret – Prince

“Raspberry Beret” is a classic love song by the legendary Prince. The song has a playful, upbeat melody and Prince’s signature smooth, soulful vocals. The lyrics describe a romantic encounter with a young woman wearing a raspberry beret, who catches the singer’s eye and steals his heart.

The song is full of vivid imagery and playful, sensual lyrics that perfectly capture the feeling of falling in love. With its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and charming songs, “Raspberry Beret” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners today.

Click here for “Raspberry Beret” lyrics

Numb/Encore – Jay-Z & Linkin Park

“Numb/Encore” is a powerful collaboration between music’s biggest names – Jay-Z and Linkin Park. The song blends the smooth, effortless flow of Jay-Z’s rap verses with the intense, emotional energy of Linkin Park’s alternative rock sound.

The lyrics of “Numb/Encore” explore the feeling of being disconnected and disconnected from the world, a theme that resonates deeply with both Jay-Z and Linkin Park’s audiences.

The track builds from a moody intro into an explosive chorus, driven by the powerful vocals of Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington and the signature beats of the band’s Mike Shinoda.

Click here for “Numb/Encore” lyrics

Sugar, We’re Goin Down – Fall Out Boy

“Sugar, We’re Goin Down” is a seminal emo-pop anthem that perfectly captures the angsty yet hopeful mood of early 2000s youth culture.

With its catchy chorus, driving guitar riffs, and relatable lyrics, the song quickly became a hit for Fall Out Boy, helping to propel the band into the mainstream consciousness. The song’s protagonist laments his inability to connect with a crush and the frustration of unrequited love.

The music video, which features the band performing the song in a neighborhood setting, adds to the song’s allure by highlighting the raw energy and playful humor that has become a hallmark of Fall Out Boy’s sound.

Click here for “Sugar, We’re Goin Down” lyrics

Let Me Love You – Mario

“Let Me Love You” by Mario is a classic R&B love song that tells the story of a man deeply in love and willing to do anything to make it work. The music starts with a soft, piano-driven intro that sets the mood for the emotional journey ahead.

The singer’s powerful voice conveys the depth of his feelings as he pleads with his love interest to give him a chance to prove his love. The song’s lyrics are simple yet effective, with lines like “I just wanna be there for you” and “let me be the one to love you until the end of time.”

The song builds to a powerful chorus that features Mario’s signature falsetto, making it a standout track on the album.

Click here for “Let Me Love You” lyrics

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Best Songs of 2005 Recap

And that brings us to the end of our list of the Best Songs of 2005. This year saw a wide range of musical styles and influences, from the soulful R&B of Mariah Carey’s “We Belong Together” to the upbeat pop-punk of Fall Out Boy’s “Sugar, We’re Goin Down.” These songs dominated the charts and defined the sound of the mid-2000s.

But our journey through the musical landscape of the early 2000s isn’t over yet. Join us in our next article as we explore the best music from this era with our list of the top songs of 2006. So stay tuned and get ready to dive back into the world of mid-2000s music.

Don’t miss out! Check out our other playlists about songs about Love At First Sight, songs about Mother’s Day, songs of 2001, and songs by Lana Del Rey.