This is admittedly a subjective list based on judgments of quality instead of sales figures or radio airplay. A number of songs have expanded reviews - click on the word 'Review' to read more information about the song.
This list should be a great conversation starter and feel free to agree or disagree. Either way there is a lot of great pop music to be found here.
40. John Legend featuring Andre 3000 - "Green Light"
Courtesy Sony
The singing talent on display here is irresistible as is the sunny mood.
39. Jesse McCartney - "Leavin"
Courtesy Hollywood Records
As if co-writing a massive hit like "Bleeding Love" wasn't enough, Jesse McCartney dove headfirst into R&B to generate the biggest pop hit single of his career.
38. will.i.am - "It's a New Day"
Courtesy Interscope
In a flood of songs celebrating President-Elect Barack Obama, will.i.am's effort stands out.
37. Jordin Sparks - "One Step at a Time"
Courtesy Jive Records
In case you thought she couldn't move beyond the hit single "Tattoo," American Idol winner Jordin Sparks delivered another upbeat pop hit.
36. Panic at the Disco - "Nine In the Afternoon"
Courtesy Fueled by Ramen
Wearing Beatles influences on their sleeves, Panic at the Disco returned with this charming slice of baroque pop.
35. Michael Cera & Ellen Page - "Anyone Else But You"
Courtesy Rhino Records
Cheerful, minimalist pop songs were at the heart of the success of the Academy Award nominated movie Juno. This is perhaps the most memorable of those.
34. Lady GaGa featuring Colby O'Donis - "Just Dance"
Courtesy Interscope
Rising swiftly out of the New York club underground, Lady GaGa is an unapologetic advocate of pop music. Just try not singing along to this smash.
33. Rihanna - "Take a Bow"
Courtesy Def Jam
You can hear the bitterness seething just below the surface in this masterful performance from Rihanna. Even if she does not possess the most powerful pipes in pop music today, her interpretive skills continue to impress.
32. Mariah Carey - "Touch My Body"
Courtesy Island Records
Don't miss Mariah Carey's sexy sense of humor in this #1 smash single.
31. Death Cab for Cutie - "I Will Possess Your Heart"
Courtesy Atlantic Records
The original 8-minute version of this song has one of the longest instrumental introductions in recent memory. However, a radio-friendly edit gets to the intriguing lyrics of obsessive love much more quickly.
