2015 hits

15 Iconic Songs from 2015 That Are Turning 10 This Year

Music, as always, is a time machine

Time really flies! With 2025 already here, it’s hard to believe that 2015 was ten years ago. That year was unforgettable when it came to music—catchy beats, emotional lyrics, and surprising collaborations ruled the charts. It was a time when new artists burst onto the scene, and big names cemented their place in the industry. From global hits that became anthems to Spanish-language tracks that defined Latin music scene, 2015 gave us songs that are still iconic and remain a go-to in our playlists.

For many of us, it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding us of everything that’s happened in the last decade. Music, as always, is a time machine. Back in 2015, artists across all genres released songs that didn’t just fit the moment—they left a lasting mark on pop culture.

In this article, we’ll take a walk down memory lane to revisit the songs that made 2015 unforgettable—tracks that have since earned their place as modern classics. Just hearing the first few notes is enough to take us back to a specific time and place.

Scott Dudelson/Getty Images.

The Reggaeton Boom

Ten years ago, reggaeton was having a moment. Latin artists took over the airwaves and music charts, transforming the genre like never before. Stars like J Balvin and Nicky Jam helped take reggaeton from a niche sound to a global sensation, laying the groundwork for the massive worldwide influence it enjoys today.

1. ‘Hello’ — Adele

Adele’s emotional ballad was her big comeback after five years, and it was worth the wait. The song became a worldwide phenomenon, topping charts in over 30 countries and breaking streaming records. With its heartfelt lyrics and her powerful voice, ‘Hello’ became one of the most memorable tracks of the decade.

2. ‘El Perdón’ — Nicky Jam ft. Enrique Iglesias

This romantic reggaeton hit dominated airwaves across Latin America and Spain. ‘El Perdón’ not only marked Nicky Jam’s return to the spotlight but also showcased a smooth collaboration with Enrique Iglesias, blending heartbreak and irresistible rhythms into a global smash.

3. ‘Sorry’ — Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber reinvented himself with ‘Sorry,’ a tropical house-infused pop track that was impossible not to dance to. Its catchy chorus and fresh sound marked a turning point in Bieber’s career, earning him new fans and massive success.

4. ‘Ginza’ — J Balvin

With ‘Ginza,’ J Balvin took reggaeton to a whole new level. This track became a turning point in his career, opening the door to mainstream success worldwide. Its infectious beat and catchy lyrics set the stage for Balvin’s rise as one of reggaeton’s biggest stars.

5. ‘See You Again’ — Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

This heartfelt tribute to Paul Walker in Fast & Furious 7 struck an emotional chord with listeners worldwide. The poignant lyrics and Charlie Puth’s soulful vocals made it a tearjerker and an anthem of remembrance for millions.

6. ‘Encantadora’ — Yandel

Yandel delivered a reggaeton favorite with ‘Encantadora,’ showcasing his signature style and knack for catchy beats. The song was a fan favorite in 2015, proving Yandel’s ability to stand out as a solo artist after leaving Wisin & Yandel.

7. ‘Hotline Bling’ — Drake

Drake’s ‘Hotline Bling’ wasn’t just a song – it was a cultural moment. The infectious beat and unforgettable music video, with Drake’s now-iconic dance moves, turned this track into a worldwide meme and a chart-topping hit.

8. ‘Chantaje’ — Shakira ft. Maluma

Two Colombian superstars joined forces to create ‘Chantaje,’ a seductive reggaeton track with irresistible chemistry. The song quickly became a global hit, blending Shakira’s playful charm with Maluma’s suave delivery.

9. ‘Uptown Funk’ — Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

This funky anthem brought retro vibes back in style. Its groovy bassline and high-energy performance by Bruno Mars turned ‘Uptown Funk’ into one of the catchiest songs of the year. It topped the charts for weeks and became a go-to party hit.

10. ‘Bailando’ — Enrique Iglesias ft. Gente de Zona and Descemer Bueno

Though released in 2014, ‘Bailando’ continued its reign in 2015, remaining a favorite at parties and on radio stations. Its catchy beat and Latin flair turned it into a timeless anthem.

11. ‘Lean On’ — Major Lazer & DJ Snake ft. MØ

With its blend of electronic beats and global rhythms, ‘Lean On’ became a defining track of 2015. It dominated playlists worldwide, showcasing Major Lazer and DJ Snake’s knack for creating genre-blending hits.

12. ‘Can’t Feel My Face’ — The Weeknd

This song was The Weeknd’s ticket to mainstream stardom. Its mix of funk and R&B, combined with his smooth vocals, created a dancefloor favorite that showcased his versatility and ability to craft addictive hits.

13. ‘Hasta el Amanecer’ — Nicky Jam

This reggaeton hit dominated airwaves with its romantic theme and catchy chorus. Its music video, featuring a laundromat love story, became one of the most-watched on YouTube, solidifying Nicky Jam’s return to the spotlight.

14. ‘Love Me Like You Do’ — Ellie Goulding

Part of the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack, this romantic ballad captured hearts everywhere. Ellie Goulding’s ethereal voice paired perfectly with the lush production, making it a standout hit that dominated the charts.

15. ‘Bad Blood’ — Taylor Swift ft. Kendrick Lamar

This energetic remix featured a powerhouse collaboration between Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar. The fiery track, paired with its star-studded music video, became a standout from Swift’s 1989 album and a fan favorite.

These songs were the soundtrack of 2015, bringing a mix of emotions, genres, and unforgettable styles that still hit home today. Do any of these tracks take you on a trip down memory lane?