This week In ‘2000s Throwback’ 06/52
50 Cent’s “In Da Club” fuses Dr. Dre’s signature production with raw energy, dominating the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks and earning 9x platinum certification. Its hypnotic groove, simple yet effective hook, and cultural ubiquity, from movie soundtracks to major awards, cemented it as an early 2000s phenomenon. Kanye West’s “Through the Wire” turns adversity into artistry, rapping post-jaw surgery over a Chaka Khan sample. Its mix of personal triumph and catchy production launched him as a force in hip-hop, peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning critical acclaim.
Michael Bublé’s cover of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” swaps Queen’s swagger for smooth, lounge-style polish, making it a polished addition to his self-titled debut. Amy Winehouse’s “Love Is a Losing Game,” though modest on charts, captivates with understated vocals and enduring melancholy, later praised with an Ivor Novello Award. Meanwhile, Franz Ferdinand’s “The Dark of the Matinée” combines sharp wit with crisp indie rock, landing it at No. 8 in the UK. Sheryl Crow’s “Strong Enough” pairs vulnerability with subtle strength, charting globally while showcasing its quiet emotional resonance.
