The Weeknd, Drake, And Ed Sheeran Reign Supreme: Apple Music's Top 500 Of The Decade

Michael

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Post on Jul 06, 2025

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The Weeknd, Drake, and Ed Sheeran Reign Supreme: Apple Music's Top 500 Songs of the Decade Revealed

The dust has settled on the 2010s, and Apple Music has unveiled its definitive ranking of the decade's most impactful songs: the Top 500. The results? A predictable yet exhilarating mix of pop perfection, hip-hop dominance, and a healthy dose of heartfelt balladry, with The Weeknd, Drake, and Ed Sheeran emerging as undisputed kings. But who else made the cut in this monumental list showcasing the soundscape of a transformative era in music?

The announcement sent shockwaves (and nostalgic shivers) through the music world, reigniting debates about the best songs of the decade and prompting countless "best-of" playlists. This curated list, compiled using a sophisticated algorithm based on streams and user engagement, offers a compelling snapshot of the musical trends and artists that captivated a generation.

The Big Three: Unrivaled Dominance

Unsurprisingly, three names consistently surfaced near the top:

• The Weeknd: His blend of dark R&B and atmospheric pop resonated deeply with listeners, propelling tracks like "Blinding Lights" and "Starboy" to legendary status. His consistent evolution and emotional depth cemented his position as a defining artist of the 2010s.

• Drake: The Canadian rapper's influence on hip-hop and popular music is undeniable. His chart-topping hits, including "One Dance" and "Hotline Bling," represent the decade's evolution in hip-hop sounds, showcasing his mastery of storytelling and catchy melodies. His versatility and consistent output secured him a prominent place in the Apple Music Top 500.

• Ed Sheeran: Sheeran's heartfelt songwriting and undeniable vocal talent earned him a devoted fanbase worldwide. Tracks like "Thinking Out Loud" and "Shape of You" became ubiquitous, showcasing his ability to craft both intimate ballads and infectious pop anthems. His songwriting prowess and ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level made him a cornerstone of the decade’s musical landscape.

Beyond the Big Three: Unexpected Gems and Genre-Bending Hits

While The Weeknd, Drake, and Ed Sheeran dominated the upper echelons of the list, the Apple Music Top 500 also highlighted the diversity of musical talent during the 2010s. Several other artists made significant appearances, showcasing the breadth of popular music during this era. This includes:

• Taylor Swift: Her evolution from country darling to pop icon is well documented, and her consistent chart success throughout the decade secured her a significant presence in the Top 500.

• Ariana Grande: Grande's powerful vocals and infectious pop anthems captivated listeners globally, making her a prominent figure in the 2010s music scene.

• Beyoncé: A true icon, Beyoncé’s consistent delivery of high-quality music cemented her place among the decade's most influential artists.

• Post Malone: The genre-bending sounds of Post Malone have redefined modern hip-hop, adding to the decade's musical diversity.

A Decade in Review: Looking Back at the Sounds of the 2010s

The Apple Music Top 500 serves not just as a ranking, but as a comprehensive retrospective of the 2010s. It highlights the trends, artists, and songs that defined a decade of musical innovation and evolution. From the rise of streaming services to the global reach of pop music, the list reflects a period of significant change and creative exploration.

What are your thoughts on Apple Music's Top 500? Share your favorite songs of the decade in the comments below! [Link to social media comment section]

(Note: This article would benefit from including actual snippets from the Apple Music Top 500 list for specific context and engagement. If you can provide that data, I can integrate it directly.)