March 8, 2006
One of the best things about today's online music services is the opportunity to purchase individual songs for unlimited listening regardless of whether or not they have been released as a single. Each week I uncover some of the best pop tracks to download from online music services. This week I head back in time to pick 10 top tracks from 2004. This can only mean a full top 100 for the year 2004 is on its way.
1. Maroon 5 - This Love
Driven by lead singer Adam Levine's abundant vocal gifts, "This Love" is a tantalizing blend of classic r&b and contemporary pop.
2. Terror Squad - Lean Back
Duet vocals from Fat Joe and Remy Ma, production wizardry by Scott Storch, and a non-dance dance step ("now lean back") all combined for an irresistible hit.
3. Ashlee Simpson - Pieces of Me
Long before the Saturday Night Live fiasco, Ashlee Simpson emerged from the shadow of sister Jessica with this near perfect piece of pop-rock.
4. Nelly with Tim McGraw - Over and Over
The theory was if you create a song by one of the most popular rappers around and then add in vocals from one of country's top artists, you are guaranteed a hit. The theory turned out to be true.
5. Britney Spears - Toxic
"Toxic" returned Britney Spears to the pop top 10 for the first time in 4 years.
6. Linkin Park - Numb
This Linkin Park song appeared twice on the pop singles chart within less than a year. It first hit the pop singles top 20 and then mashed together with Jay-Z's "Encore" it reached the pop top 10.
7. Beyonce - Naughty Girl
With a brilliant lead-in taken from Donna Summer's classic "Love to Love You Baby," Beyonce continued to dominate pop radio into 2004.
8. Christina Milian with Fabolous - Dip It Low
Christina Milian, former teen pop singer, made a significant impact on the charts and in the minds of listeners with this steamy tune.
9. Eminem - Just Lose It
Eminem takes a few swipes at Michael Jackson, and generates a little controversy along the way. All in a day's work.
10. Ryan Cabrera - On the Way Down
Colombian-Amerian singer-songwriter Ryan Cabrera introduced himself to pop audiences with this irresistibly catchy song.
