Medley of Western Hit Songs

7 YearsLukas Graham

Lukas Graham – 7 Years [Official Music Video]

In this song, the narrator finally comes to understand, as an adult, what their parents taught them at ages seven, eleven, and twenty, feeling those lessons deeply through personal experience.

It’s a slightly bittersweet yet moving ballad that any adult can relate to.

Cold WaterMajor Lazer ft. Justin Bieber and MØ

Major Lazer – Cold Water (feat. Justin Bieber & MØ) [Official Lyric Video]

No matter how tough things get, if you’re drowning in “cold water,” I’ll jump in and save you—this message of a strong bond is conveyed.

The music video is made in the recently popular style that simply displays the lyrics.

Final SongMØ

MØ – Final Song (Official Video)

She’s still a newcomer, but in 2016 her hit song suddenly became the talk of the town.

It carries a message from young people who want to enjoy it even more—“Don’t let this be the last song.” The music video, where she dances and flies freely through the air, is nothing short of wondrous.

CloseNick Jonas ft. Tove Lo

Nick Jonas – Close ft. Tove Lo

It’s a song that portrays being head-over-heels in love—wanting to get closer and closer to the person you like, and no matter how close you get, wanting to be even closer—sung from both a male and a female perspective.

Throughout the lyrics, words related to “closeness” are repeated over and over, and the theme of “distance” is explored relentlessly.

DesiignerPANDA

Desiigner – Panda

Here are some 2016 hit songs recommended for fans of hard-hitting hip-hop.

The rapid-fire rapping and repeatedly rolled R’s that almost blend into the beat sound incredibly cool—you’ll definitely want to listen on repeat.

It’s also a track I’d love to see dancers perform to.

WorkRihanna ft. Drake

Rihanna – Work (Explicit) ft. Drake

Here’s one of her songs from 2016, a year in which she was already cranking out hits.

As the title suggests, it’s themed around her boyfriend’s “work,” and the lyrics take the perspective of a slightly selfish girlfriend who’s a bit dissatisfied with how he’s always busy and saying it’s all about work.

Kill Em with KindnessSelena Gomez

Selena Gomez – Kill Em With Kindness

The title alone is quite shocking, but it means “I’ll kill you with kindness.” The lyrics appeal to the heart, telling people in today’s world—full of those who fight with weapons and hurt each other with words—to throw away their weapons and “kill with kindness.”