The Top 50 Songs of the 2010s…So Far: Day Five

Christina Aguilera debuted “Not Myself Tonight” on “Oprah” in 2010. (Photo property of Harpo Productions)

By: Jacob Elyachar

If you have not had a chance to read part four of my countdown yet, click here: https://jakes-take.com/2013/01/the-top-50-songs-of-the-2010s-so-far-day-four/

Day five features lots of big personalities and huge voices that always impress music listeners.

30. “Not Myself Tonight” by Christina Aguilera

“Not Myself Tonight” marked Christina Aguilera’s entrance into the world of dance pop.  This song featured an interesting combination of synthesizers and tribal drums that were heard all throughout the track.  Plus, it was interesting to hear Aguilera’s big booming voice worked with Polow da Don’s mixing.

The former Voice coach’s risqué video paid homage to Madonna and had a lot of S&M references.  To watch the video, click here: http://youtu.be/wt-tHcQR67Y

29. “Hey Ahab” by Elton John and Leon Russell

Elton John and Leon Russell’s 2010 collaborative album The Union was one of the year’s biggest hits because of its incredible songs.   One song that stood out on the album was “Hey Ahab,” which was an intriguing twist involving Herman Melville’s classic tale: Moby Dick.

Cee Lo Green teams up with Paul Shaffer and the CBS Orchestra for a funky cover of “Bright Lights Bigger City.” (Photo property of CBS and Worldwide Pants, Inc.)

28. “Bright Lights Bigger City” by Cee Lo Green

“Bright Lights Bigger City” was the “Forget You” singer’s fourth single off of his highly successful Lady Killer album.  This song combined the intriguing vocals of Cee Lo with a hybrid of Motown, “Billie Jean” and futuristic sounds to make this song one very memorable listening experience.

Cee Lo performed an incredible version of this song with Paul Schaffer and the CBS Orchestra when he visited The Late Show with David Letterman in 2010. 

27. “No Church in the Wild” by Jay-Z & Kanye West featuring Frank Ocean & The-Dream

Jay-Z & Kanye West’s Watch the Throne spun off seven different singles in the span of one year.  The final single off of their album: “No Church in the Wild” featured three impeccable rappers (Kanye, Jay-Z & The-Dream) and one rising star (Frank Ocean).   All three of the MCs delivered strong beats but it was Frank Ocean, who stole the song with his impressive hook that showed off his vocal range.

Jennifer Hudson performed “Where You At” on “Good Morning America.” (Photo property of ABC News)

26. “Where You At” by Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson and R. Kelly make an incredible team as the “I Believe I Can Fly” singer arranged and composed an outstanding song for the Oscar Winner to sing for her 2011 sophomore album.    “Where You At” showcased a lot of vocal gymnastics and will move anyone listening to this track.

I do not own any of these clips or songs that are highlighted in this article. They belong to the artists and their respective record companies.