The best songs of 2023: Taylor Swift, Yoasobi and Miley Cyrus all delivered hits we won’t forget
- Corook and Olivia Barton went viral for their upbeat ‘If I Were a Fish,’ encouraging people to be themselves
- Tate McRae captivated listeners with her infectious beats and energetic vibes
Megastar Taylor Swift dominated popular culture in 2023, going on the first-ever US$1 billion tour and getting named Time magazine’s Person of the Year. Photo: AP With many places lifting their Covid-19 restrictions in 2023, people flocked to attend concerts and music festivals again. Music plays a big part in our lives, comforting us in times of need and bringing us together with people all around the world.
From popular Japanese animation theme songs to upbeat tracks about self-love and sentimental ballads, Young Post junior reporters tell us their top songs of 2023. How many of these are on your playlist?
Team YP’s picks for the best music, movies and TV shows of 2023
“Idol,” by Yoasobi
Aimee Lam, International Christian School
Released as the theme song to the Japanese anime Oshi No Ko, “Idol” has cemented Japanese duo Yoasobi’s growing success. The lively and powerful production is synergised with surprising, melancholy lyrics mirroring Ai Hoshino, the main character of Oshi No Ko. The track consists of diverse sounds, including orchestrated choral vocals and colourful synths, creating an exciting whirlwind with the ability to bring up the energy in any room.
“If I Were a Fish,” Corook ft. Olivia Barton
Christy Tsang Yat-hei, Po Leung Kuk Wu Chung College
It’s easy to understand why this song by Nashville-based singer-songwriters Corook and Olivia Barton went viral in 2023. Lyrics like “Why is everyone on the internet so mean?” and “To be the you-est of you. And the me-est of me” remind us to ignore hateful comments online and just be ourselves.
“Intrusive Thoughts,” Natalie Jane
Hilary Chau, Maryknoll Convent School (secondary section)
American singer-songwriter Natalie Jane brilliantly portrays the “what-ifs” that make our heads spin with lyrics like “What if you go to heaven and it’s not even real?” in this brilliant tune.
“Say, Don’t Go,” Taylor Swift
Sophia Ling, German Swiss International School
This heartbreaking song captures the sadness of knowing that someone is falling out of love with you but still hoping they ask you to stay.
Many can relate to the feelings of lost love, rejection, and pain in the lyrics. One of Taylor’s talents as a songwriter is her ability to tap into the intricate and complicated feelings that surround love and heartbreak.
Taylor Swift snags top spot on Spotify’s artists of 2023 list, raking in US$100 million
“Flowers,” Miley Cyrus
Suhani Methi, King George V School
“Flowers” definitely deserves the title for best song of 2023. The single debuted at no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending eight non-consecutive weeks at the top.
I have a deep appreciation for this song, as it serves as a powerful reminder that women have the capacity to bloom and thrive independently. The lyrics convey a sense of liberation, encouraging women to embrace their individuality and find their own path in life.
“Greedy,” Tate McRae
Valerie Shek, The ISF Academy
“Greedy” is undeniably the stand-out song of 2023, captivating listeners with its infectious beats and energetic vibe, making it a favourite for dancing and creating memorable moments.