RAG MusicHit Song
Lovely hit song
search

Debut songs by male Western artists from the 2000s

A collection of debut songs by standout male Western artists from the 2000s.

The era produced countless global stars and classic tracks, with a vibrant mix of approachable pop-punk, sultry R&B, and heartfelt ballads.

Across genres, I was especially drawn to the catchy pop sensibility that seemed to shine through.

Here’s a compilation of debut tracks from some of the most popular male artists of the time.

It’s sure to bring back memories—and maybe even spark some new discoveries!

Be sure to check it out.

Debut songs by male Western artists from the 2000s (11–20)

Last RequestPaolo Nutini

Paolo Nutini – Last Request (Official Video)
Last RequestPaolo Nutini

Paolo Nutini is an artist from Scotland.

While he mainly works within genres like pop and folk, his voice is distinctive, and his vocals convey the tone and technique of a soul singer.

His debut song is “Last Request.” The verses are a gentle folk style, but once the chorus hits, a soulful vocal unfolds.

The contrast between his musical style and his voice is incredibly appealing, so be sure to give it a listen.

FreeDonavon Frankenreiter

Released in 2004, Donavon Frankenreiter’s “Free” is a standout track with a bright, catchy ukulele intro.

It’s included on his debut album, Donavon Frankenreiter, and is known for having been created together with fellow surf-rock musician Jack Johnson.

Hailing from California, Frankenreiter is also a surfer, and his music captivates with a breezy sound that feels like a direct reflection of the surfing experience.

Summer RainCarl Thomas

Carl Thomas – Summer Rain (Official Music Video)
Summer RainCarl Thomas

Carl Thomas is an American R&B singer with formidable talent.

In the R&B and hip-hop scenes, artists who are perceived as lacking skill can face severe criticism from listeners.

Carl Thomas earned high acclaim in that rigorous Black music arena and was hugely active in the 2000s.

His debut song, “Summer Rain,” is a sophisticated track with a complex melody that incorporates many challenging vocal runs (ad-libs).

HighJames Blunt

James Blunt – High (Official Original Video)
HighJames Blunt

The British singer James Blunt released his debut single “High” in 2004.

His hallmark is a delicate melody you wouldn’t expect from someone who once served in the British Army.

The lyrics, which express deep feelings for a lover, and the wistful folk-rock sound captivate listeners.

The song is included on his first album, “Back to Bedlam,” and the second single cut from the album, “You’re Beautiful,” became a massive hit worldwide, including in Japan.

Frontin’Pharrell Williams

Pharrell – Frontin’ (Official HD Video) ft. Jay-Z
Frontin'Pharrell Williams

“Frontin’” is the solo debut single released in 2006 by Pharrell Williams, who had been active with the hip-hop group N.

E.

R.

D.

Featuring rapper Jay-Z, the track became a hit in the United States, the United Kingdom, and elsewhere.

In Japan, Pharrell has also enjoyed strong popularity, including serving as a headliner at Summer Sonic in 2015.

The song pairs a funky sound reminiscent of Stevie Wonder with standout falsetto vocals.

Used to Love UJohn Legend

John Legend – Used to Love U (Official Video)
Used to Love UJohn Legend

John Legend is a singer-songwriter who is also active as a music producer.

Many of you may know him, as he continues to provide songs to various artists and consistently release hit tracks.

Though he is known for his wide-ranging musical style, in the 2000s when he debuted, he was releasing authentic soul music.

His debut song, “Used to Love U,” is a neo-soul track with strong elements of soul music.

It’s an exceptionally sophisticated song that makes his current success easy to understand—be sure to give it a listen.

Debut songs by male Western artists from the 2000s (21–30)

Whatcha SayJason Derulo

Jason Derulo – Whatcha Say [Official Music Video]
Whatcha SayJason Derulo

Can one forgive a lover’s infidelity? A bittersweet love song that explores this tangled emotion was released to the world in August 2009 as the solo debut of American artist Jason Derulo.

Blending mellow R&B with striking electropop, the track soared to No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and captured the hearts of music fans worldwide.

Inspired by his brother’s experience, the lyrics trace the regret after a mistake and the plea for forgiveness, delicately portraying the subtleties of human relationships.

It’s a song that resonates deeply with anyone facing the pains and conflicts of love.