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Read more about the article ‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°692 – 2010s Music Videos

‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°692 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of

Paramore’s "The Only Exception" showcases a softer, stripped-down ballad in 6/8 time, veering from their usual energy. Hayley Williams’ heartfelt delivery anchors the track, which gained commercial traction, hitting No. 17 in Australia and earning a Grammy nod. Its quiet introspection marked a shift, resonating on the UK Rock Chart but drawing mixed feelings about its restrained predictability. Similarly, Marina’s "How to Be a Heartbreaker" paired cheeky breakup rules with a polished pop backdrop. Produced by Benny Blanco and Dr. Luke, the track aimed for mainstream success, achieving platinum status but peaking modestly on UK and US charts, balancing humor with a team-driven sound.

Jack Savoretti’s "Candlelight" leans into cinematic elegance with lush, atmospheric instrumentation, hinting at James Bond vibes but sanding down emotional edges for mass appeal. Meanwhile, Ne-Yo’s Disney piece, "Never Knew I Needed," oozes romance with polished R&B stylings but feels like a chapter in a broader narrative rather than a standout. Sugarland’s "Stuck Like Glue" blends country and reggae, delivering an earworm that polarized fans with its quirky energy, while Alyssa Reid’s "Alone Again" borrowed Heart’s ’80s hit, blending nostalgia with crisp pop charm to climb European charts. These tracks highlight diverse approaches to balancing emotional weight and commercial appeal.? Take our 12-track quiz.

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Read more about the article ‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°669 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°669 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of

Sam Smith’s "Lay Me Down" carries raw emotion, evolving from a modest 2013 release to gaining wider notice with a 2015 reissue and a remix featuring John Legend that hit No. 1 in the UK. Similarly, James Blake’s haunting "Retrograde" highlights sparse production, delicately blending post-dubstep and soul. Rihanna’s "Needed Me" pairs cool detachment with DJ Mustard’s grinding beats, sticking to a slow-burn electro-R&B vibe, while Miley Cyrus’s "Wrecking Ball" leans on emotional heft paired with over-the-top visuals for cultural impact.

Bombay Bicycle Club’s "Luna" layers vibrant harmonies and tabla rhythms, balancing exotic textures with indie sensibility, whereas Rag’n’Bone Man’s "Skin" delivers cinematic emotionality rooted in TV-inspired drama. Tracks like One Direction’s "Steal My Girl" and Imagine Dragons’ "I Bet My Life" favor polished production over innovation, while Tinie Tempah and Labrinth’s "Lover Not a Fighter" leans into radio-ready pop-rap charm. Elbow’s "Magnificent (She Says)" and Example’s "Perfect Replacement" round out the list, offering tracks that feel precise yet miss risks that could truly resonate.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°669 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article Hip-Hop & Soul N°455 – 2010s Music Videos

Hip-Hop & Soul N°455 – 2010s Music Videos

Stormzy’s "Cold," from *Gang Signs & Prayer*, delivers sharp grime energy in just 2:36, with Swifta Beater’s taut production elevating its impactful brevity. Certified Gold and peaking at #21 on the UK Singles Chart, the track weaves empowerment into punchy bars, marrying confidence with playfulness. In contrast, Drake’s "Energy" from *If You're Reading This It's Too Late* showcases defiance and paranoia layered over eclectic samples, climbing to #26 on Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certifications worldwide, supported by a satirical music video that amplified its bold lyrics.

Khalid’s "Talk," powered by Disclosure’s polished yet restrained production, explores the hesitations of a fragile relationship, resonating globally with top-three Billboard Hot 100 success and Grammy recognition. Meanwhile, Big Sean’s "Bounce Back" channels resilience with slick trap production, peaking at #6 and earning platinum plaques for its catchy yet introspective vibe. Tyga’s "Rack City," minimalistic and repetitive, became an early-2010s club staple, quadruple-platinum-certified despite its simplicity. Across these standout tracks, each artist leaves their mark, blending genre-defining elements with unique stylistic choices.

Continue ReadingHip-Hop & Soul N°455 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘We Are Live’ N°145 – 2010s Music Videos

‘We Are Live’ N°145 – 2010s Music Videos

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Sam Smith’s heartfelt "Lay Me Down," re-released with John Legend, turned solitary yearning into a poignant duet, hitting number one in the UK. Meanwhile, Jon Bellion’s "All Time Low" paired sleek pop production with breakup vulnerability, making waves internationally. Little Mix’s early empowerment ballad "Change Your Life" showcased polished vocals but leaned on safe universality, peaking at 12 in the UK.

John Newman’s "Love Me Again" blended raspy vocals and modern soul-pop energy, topping UK charts and gaining traction globally thanks to its dramatic flair. Saygrace’s update of "You Don’t Own Me" added a contemporary edge to a classic feminist anthem, lifted by Quincy Jones’ involvement. Kodaline’s "Honest" brought emotional tension but stayed in familiar sonic territory, marking another solid, if cautious, hit for the band.

? Take our 12-track quiz.

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Read more about the article Hip-Hop & Soul N°410 – 2010s Music Videos

Hip-Hop & Soul N°410 – 2010s Music Videos

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Nicki Minaj's "Stupid Hoe" shines with chaotic, stripped-down beats and divisive energy, featuring rapid-fire lyrics and a theatrical music video by Hype Williams. Its biting tone, speculated as a jab at Lil' Kim, polarized audiences, while the track peaked modestly at No. 59 on Billboard but broke Vevo’s 24-hour views record. Similarly, J. Cole's "Middle Child" balances introspection and industry critique, highlighting his role bridging hip-hop generations. Produced by T-Minus, it became his highest-charting single at No. 4 on Billboard and earned 3× Platinum certification, blending personal reflection with a polished yet familiar sound.

Chris Brown’s "Yeah 3x" injects club-ready energy with its electro dance-pop sound, charting globally and going quintuple platinum in Australia despite plagiarism disputes with Calvin Harris. Meanwhile, AJ Tracey’s "Psych Out!" trades gritty bars for melodic finesse, achieving a No. 18 peak in the UK charts but leaning towards polish over rawness. Migos’ "Walk It Talk It," featuring Drake, thrives on repetition, supported by a retro "Soul Train"-inspired video, peaking at No. 10 on Billboard and earning a 6× Platinum certification. Blueface’s "Thotiana," backed by viral remixes, ascended to No. 8 on Billboard, though its sparse production and offbeat flow rendered it more fleeting cultural moment than rap cornerstone.

? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue ReadingHip-Hop & Soul N°410 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Look Ma, No Mike!’ N°133 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Look Ma, No Mike!’ N°133 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of

N-Dubz’s "Girls," with its hedonistic themes and polished beats, sees Dappy's over-the-top theatrics paired with a glossy yet disjointed music video, peaking modestly at No. 18 in the UK. Troye Sivan’s "Youth" shines as millennial synth-pop, blending sparkling hooks and universal themes of first love, landing higher in charts like Australia (No. 17) and achieving multi-platinum accolades globally.

The Vamps and Matoma teamed up for "All Night," a streamlined EDM-pop crossover with childlike vocal production quirks, staying on UK charts for 26 weeks. Sophie Ellis-Bextor slowed the pace with "Young Blood," an introspective chamber pop piece that peaked at No. 34 in the UK, offering cinematic strings and tender vocals that departed from her dance-pop roots.

? Take our 12-track quiz.

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Read more about the article ‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°655 – 2010s Music Videos

‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°655 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of

James Morrison's heartfelt "I Won’t Let You Go" offers soft acoustic devotion, while Zayn Malik's "Pillowtalk" fuses seductive R&B with electronic elements, marking a break from his boy band days. Rihanna's "Work," blending dancehall and pop with Drake, stands out for its minimalist rhythm and massive global success. Selena Gomez's "Hands to Myself" melds synth-pop precision with restrained sensuality, while Justin Timberlake's ambitious "Mirrors" reflects personal relationships over an extended runtime.

Little Mix's "Think About Us," featuring Ty Dolla $ign, pairs sleek production with vocal power, though it lacks standout originality. The Chainsmokers’ "Roses" epitomizes 2015’s electronic pop vibe with Rozes’ haunting vocals adding depth. Kojo Funds and RAYE's "Check" combines Afrobeat and R&B, riding catchy Craig David-esque riffs. Jason Derulo's "Breathing" wraps grief in Eurodance beats, and Shawn Mendes with Camila Cabello crafts tension in "I Know What You Did Last Summer," driven by vocal interplay and emotional confrontation.

? Take our 12-track quiz.

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Read more about the article ‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°718 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°718 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of

Justin Bieber’s "Confident," featuring Chance the Rapper, capped off his "Music Mondays" campaign with a slick R&B experiment. Released in 2013 as part of his *Journals*, the track blends swagger with Chance’s laid-back delivery, achieving Platinum certifications despite modest U.S. chart performance. Its music video, directed by Colin Tilley, channels Michael Jackson-inspired energy, while a notable live feature during Chance’s 2014 Coachella set kept its buzz alive.

Neon Trees’ "Animal," from their 2010 album *Habits*, balances polished ambition and controlled energy, peaking at number 13 in the U.S. The track stretched its appeal across international charts while securing a number-one spot on Billboard’s Alternative Songs chart after a lengthy climb. Bebe Rexha’s emotive pop anthem "I Got You" paired glossy production with relatable themes, resonating globally with strong digital traction. Meanwhile, Modestep’s 2011 debut "Feel Good" fused dubstep intensity with melodic rock to carve out its niche in early 2010s rave culture.

? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°718 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°668 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°668 – 2010s Music Videos

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Alan Walker's "Faded" blends atmospheric introspection with mainstream appeal, driven by Iselin Solheim’s haunting vocals and a looping piano refrain. Its staggering success, including 11× platinum in Sweden, leans on polished production but risks overreliance on repetition. In contrast, Twenty One Pilots’ "Stressed Out" captures millennial anxieties with introspective lyrics and a blend of alt-rock and hip-hop, earning a peak at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Bazzi’s "Mine" rides viral fame into polished pop territory, blending simple melodies with sleek production, embodying catchy appeal despite shallow emotional depth. Meanwhile, Billie Eilish’s "Bury a Friend" explores dark self-reflection through a skeletal, minimalist sound, backed by unsettling lyrics, securing cultural resonance with its haunting vision and tightly controlled creativity.

? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°668 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Music For The Dancers’ N°610 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Music For The Dancers’ N°610 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Rizzle Kicks’ funky "Mama Do the Hump," produced by Fatboy Slim, blends cheeky wordplay and nostalgia, while Demi Lovato’s "Sorry Not Sorry" channels defiance with bold vocals and a glossy pop-R&B vibe. Disclosure’s "White Noise" fuses AlunaGeorge’s ethereal vocals with sharp beats, and DJ Fresh's “Louder,” featuring Sian Evans, balances dubstep chaos with melodic control. Shift K3Y’s "Gone Missing" combines UK garage grooves and BB Diamond’s sultry vocals, and Rudimental’s "Rumour Mill" keeps it chill with Anne-Marie and Will Heard's vocal dynamic over a relaxed backdrop.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘Music For The Dancers’ N°610 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Look Ma, No Mike!’ N°129 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Look Ma, No Mike!’ N°129 – 2010s Music Videos

Keri Hilson’s “Pretty Girl Rock” oozes swagger with confident R&B beats and nods to Bill Withers, while Britney Spears’ “Hold It Against Me” balances industrial pop grit with dubstep flair, anchoring her chart legacy. Billie Eilish's "idontwannabeyouanymore" strips down to raw vulnerability, contrasting with Avril Lavigne’s playful rebellion in "What the Hell." Vampire Weekend’s “Cousins” delivers jittery indie charm, and Ellie Goulding’s “Goodness Gracious” blends self-reflection with lively electro-pop. Rae Morris’ “Under the Shadows” crafts atmospheric indie allure, and Alicia Keys’ “Brand New Me” channels quiet strength through a piano-led ballad. Finally, Susan Boyle teams with Elvis Presley for a nostalgic “O Come All Ye Faithful,” exuding festive tradition.

Continue Reading‘Look Ma, No Mike!’ N°129 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘We Are Live’ N°125 – 2010s Music Videos

‘We Are Live’ N°125 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Aloe Blacc’s "I Need A Dollar" delivers a raw tale of financial struggle with a timeless groove, while Beyoncé’s "Love On Top" radiates joy through its powerful vocals and retro R&B flair. Bring Me The Horizon shifts gears on "Mother Tongue," leaning into electro-pop optimism, and Clean Bandit’s hit with Zara Larsson fuses orchestral strings with modern electronic polish. Khalid and Kane Brown’s "Saturday Nights" remix bridges R&B and country seamlessly, and The 1975’s "The Sound" dazzles with its playful 80s-inspired energy. Meanwhile, Catfish and the Bottlemen’s "Longshot" balances indie grit with accessibility, and Zedd’s "The Middle," featuring Maren Morris, nails pop precision with undeniable catchiness. Each track blends emotion, innovation, and wide appeal in its own unique way.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘We Are Live’ N°125 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°654 – 2010s Music Videos

‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°654 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Nicki Minaj's "Right Thru Me" blends emotional honesty with sleek production, while Alicia Keys’ "Try Sleeping with a Broken Heart" uses ’80s-tinged synths to tell a tale of resilience. Selena Gomez’s "The Heart Wants What It Wants" leans into raw heartbreak, contrasting with the carefree Caribbean flair of Cover Drive’s "Twilight." Tracks like Gorgon City’s "Ready For Your Love" and Wankelmut’s "My Head Is A Jungle" electrify with polished beats, capturing both intimacy and energy.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°654 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°666 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°666 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of David Guetta’s "Play Hard" electrifies with Akon and Ne-Yo’s vocals over Alice Deejay’s "Better Off Alone" sample, while Passion Pit’s "The Reeling" blends synth-pop with emotional depth. Imagine Dragons’ "Believer" storms through themes of resilience, and Vance Joy’s "Riptide" captivates with its quirky, ukulele-driven charm. Lorde’s "Team" stands out for its minimalist beat and reflective lyrics, and Sub Focus’ "Turn Back Time" balances nostalgic vibes with a modern drum-and-bass pulse. Indiana’s "Solo Dancing" offers brooding synths and introspective independence, while The Wombats’ "Jump Into The Fog" merges indie energy with darker wit.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘Vous Avez Dit Bizarre’ N°666 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Music For The Dancers’ N°647 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Music For The Dancers’ N°647 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Majestic and Jungle 70’s "Creeping In The Dark" delivers a dark, bass-driven blend of UK garage and drum n bass, while Tchami's "Promesses" pairs Kaleem Taylor's smooth vocals with sleek future house grooves. Bingo Players and Far East Movement collide on "Get Up (Rattle)" for some chaotic Dutch house energy, matched by Swedish House Mafia and Knife Party's aggressive "Antidote." Neon Jungle’s "Braveheart" embraces EDM-pop adrenaline, and Vato Gonzalez, Lethal Bizzle, and Donae’o mix grime and Dutch house on the intense "Not a Saint." Meanwhile, Sia’s "Move Your Body" keeps the tempo high with her powerhouse delivery, suited for both clubs and cardio playlists.? Take our 12-track quiz.

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Read more about the article Hip-Hop & Soul N°449 – 2010s Music Videos

Hip-Hop & Soul N°449 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Swarmz and Tion Wayne blend UK rap and drill on "Bally," balancing gritty beats, streetwise lyrics, and mainstream polish, while Kendrick Lamar’s "Backseat Freestyle" delivers booming ambition on a Hit-Boy beat. J. Cole’s introspective "4 Your Eyez Only" contrasts with Sage the Gemini’s bass-heavy "Gas Pedal," a viral dance hit. Kid Ink’s "Hotel" teams with Chris Brown for a nightlife anthem, and "My Life" unites 50 Cent, Eminem, and Adam Levine for a moody reflection on fame. Skepta’s pop-inflected "Cross My Heart" pairs grime with commercial appeal, and Diddy – Dirty Money’s "Coming Home" combines melancholy storytelling with Skylar Grey’s haunting hook.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue ReadingHip-Hop & Soul N°449 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘Music For The Dancers’ N°608 – 2010s Music Videos

‘Music For The Dancers’ N°608 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Kelly Rowland’s “Down for Whatever” charges into Eurodance, blending brazen beats with carefree vibes, while Lady Gaga’s “The Edge of Glory” walks the line between emotional depth and ‘80s nostalgia, powered by Clarence Clemons’ saxophone. Jonas Blue’s rework of “Fast Car” transforms Tracy Chapman’s grit into neon-lit EDM. Flo Rida’s “Wild Ones,” with Sia’s bittersweet chorus, chases hedonistic highs, and Pitbull’s “International Love” pairs Chris Brown’s hooks with global bravado. Kylie Minogue’s “Dancing” melds country twang with glossy electronica, while Khalid’s introspective “Silence” finds balance in Marshmello’s sleek production.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘Music For The Dancers’ N°608 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article Hip-Hop & Soul N°408 – 2010s Music Videos

Hip-Hop & Soul N°408 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Kanye West’s “Gold Digger” stands tall with its Ray Charles-inspired hook and playful critique of materialism, while J Hus’s “Bouff Daddy” fuses Afroswing with grime for effortless charm. Drake’s “God’s Plan” pairs trap beats with feel-good philanthropy, and Bryson Tiller’s intimate “Don’t” redefined R&B with its lo-fi edge. AJ Tracey’s experimental “Psych Out!” mixes UK rap with genre-blending production, and Mustard’s “Pure Water” with Migos channels brash energy for party-ready appeal. Tracks like Fredo and Not3s’ “YRF” boast gritty yet smooth collaboration, while Dappy’s introspective “No Regrets” elevates UK hip hop with anthemic layers.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue ReadingHip-Hop & Soul N°408 – 2010s Music Videos
Read more about the article ‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°653 – 2010s Music Videos

‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°653 – 2010s Music Videos

How well do you know the music of Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games” blends melancholic nostalgia with dreamy production, setting the stage for her cinematic artistry, while Mabel’s “Don’t Call Me Up” serves post-breakup resilience in polished tropical pop. Ed Sheeran’s tender “Lego House” captures emotional rebuilding through acoustic intimacy, contrasting with One Direction’s vibrant “One Thing,” a burst of boyband charm and big hooks. Charlie Puth’s “How Long” brings sleek funk vibes to themes of betrayal, and Bruno Mars’ dramatic “It Will Rain” thrives on heartbreak with pop-soul theatrics. Raye’s “Decline” modernizes early-2000s nostalgia, and Clean Bandit’s “I Miss You” mixes crisp EDM beats with lyrical poignancy.? Take our 12-track quiz.

Continue Reading‘L’Amour Toujours’ N°653 – 2010s Music Videos