Charlie Doherty's Top 25 Picks: The Best Songs of 2023 Across Generations

The year 2023 has been a thrilling one for music lovers of all stripes, with new releases spanning the decades of rock history. Industry legends and emerging artists alike have graced listeners with a collection of tracks that resonate with emotion, creativity, and undeniable talent. From the classic rock of The Rolling Stones to the dreamy soundscapes of modern indie artists, this comprehensive list celebrates the rich variety of this year's best tunes.

New Horizons and Nostalgic Returns

In a surprising twist of nostalgia, bands like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and Blur have continued to surprise fans with new tunes. Music icons of the '90s have also had a strong showing, with artists such as Slowdive, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Noel Gallagher delivering fresh music, earning them spots on this coveted list of top tunes from the past year.

The Young and the Timeless

The list also features younger musical phenomena who have carved their names into the music world with poignant lyrics and unique sounds. Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish, among others, have shown that they are more than fleeting chart-toppers by offering new works with depth and staying power. Their tracks 'Can't Change Me Now' and 'A&W', for example, showcase a level of artistry that stands shoulder to shoulder with the music industry's tested giants.

Top 25 Songs of 2023

The selection of the year's top songs reflects a fusion of genres and eras. From rock to pop to electronic and beyond, the list includes standouts such as Lana Del Rey's introspective 'A&W', the Rolling Stones' 'Sweet Sounds of Heaven', and Blur's energetic 'The Narcissist'. New tracks from Boygenius and Dropkick Murphys pay homage to rock's undying spirit, while Boygenius' collaboration with Dave Grohl highlights a playful edge to their music. Contributions from post-rock groups like Four Tet and electrifying performances by Brittany Howard add to the diversity of this year's greatest hits.

Each song on the list has earned its place through a combination of critical acclaim and audience admiration. Whether it's the Beatles' historic 'Now and Then' or the dream pop nuances of Dream, Ivory's 'Milk', featuring Jay Som, these 25 tunes have defined the musical landscape of 2023 and are sure to be remembered for years to come.

music, hits, 2023