Coog Radio Blog Team’s Top 20 Songs of 2014!

As 2014 comes to a close, everyone is releasing their end- of- the – year lists for songs, albums, and everything in between. Why should we be any different? The Coog Radio Blog Team has come together to bring your our Top 20 Songs of 2014. The songs are listed in no particular order. Each blogger has picked a song that was their favorite of the year. Some are widely known, while others went under the radar. Take a look at our list and let us know what you think! What was your favorite song of 2014?

“Waves (Robin Schulz Remix)” by Mr. Probz feat. Chris Brown & T.I.

“Waves (Robin Schulz Remix),” by Mr.Probz is a stand out song already. I was hooked on the beat alone by a song that can only be described as simply contagious! How can you manage not to sing along? However the song offers a lot more than just great beats and catchy lyric. In fact, it describes a lost time in life in, which, making the song relatable with lyrics that read “My face above the water, my feet can’t touch the ground.”  Originally, I was led to believe that this song could possibly get any better but it did. The remixed version does not take away from the song but instead adds to the beauty of the song. This version of the song, which, features Chris Brown and T.I. complements the song with the additions such as, T.I.’s verse and Chris Brown’s added vocals just makes this already great song amazing. So although the original was great the remixed version of “Waves (Robin Schulz Remix),” was better, making it my 2014 pick.

– Sade Zibili

“Naysayer” by The Architects

Architects are a metal band from the UK that has had quite the shaky music career. They have reached several highs and lows throughout the past 8 years they have been together, but this year’s chart topping album, “Lost Together//Lost Forever” has been one of their all-time highs. This was the lead single off the album, and is the perfect representation of it. The song sucks you in from the very beginning with its fast paced drums, low-tuned guitars, and hard-hitting vocals. This is definitely one of the most notable metal singles of 2014 and is worth checking out.

– Rajiv Radia

Digital Witness by St. Vincent

The beginning of this song alone grabs your attention; no instrumental intro, no count in, no beat, just her first line and the horn groove directly after. This is the fanfare to indicate the start of an event, the arrival of a true QUEEN. On the cover of this album, she actual is SITTING on a throne and rightfully so. This song grooves hard, has one of the catchiest choruses of the year, and makes a conscious lyrical commentary on our internet culture and its vapid tendencies.

– Trent Lira

“Stay With Me” by Sam Smith

Sam Smith was quite the hit in 2014. His 2012 feature in Disclosure’s song “Latch” finally became a hit in 2014. With this exposure, Sam Smith was recognized for his amazing, seemingly effortless talent. He released “In the Lonely Hour”, which was full of soulful, sad songs about heartbreak.  His single, “Stay with Me” became a popular song for just about any music taste- having soul, R&B, pop, and gospel vibes. This song peaked at number 2 in the US and number 1 in the UK. There is even a later remix which features Mary J. Blige.

– Daisha Lewis

“Don’t Wanna Fall In Love” by KYLE

“Don’t Wanna Fall In Love” by KYLE is my favorite song of 2014 because of its throwback to one of my favorite decades, the 80’s. I’ve also played it maybe 2… 3….. maybe 400 times on my SoundCloud…repeatedly. My roommate probably knows the lyrics by heart now. KYLE, in my opinion, is one of the fastest upcoming artists in the rap game. He rapped upon “I Don’t Wanna Fall In Love” which was originally just a beat on SoundCloud made by M-Phazes that sampled from the late 80’s hit by Jane Child also titled “Don’t Wanna Fall In Love.” I am a sucker for catchy choruses with fun lyrics and this song simply fits that and more. The music video also gives you a feel of KYLE’s charismatic character where he acts out flirting with 3 different girls but then denies their feelings claiming he does not want to fall in love, hence the obvious title. Give it a listen, I guarantee you’ll fall in love.

– Julia Ong

“Cannibals” by Nu:Tone

Nu:Tone, aka Dan Gresham, has released four albums since 2005, “Future History” in 2014 being his latest (and possibly best). “Cannibals” won my pick as track of the year due to its catchy lyrical hook and malevolent, polished production. Ladies and gentleman, this is drum and bass done right.

– Nick Randall

“Every Other Freckle” by Alt- J

Off one of this year’s most coveted albums, “Every Other Freckle”  is a folky, fuzzy delight that embodies Alt J well. It has a very whimsical sound that stays true to the sounds of cool, modern rock and roll. A hit on the charts as well as one of the best songs on their album, this song is definitely one of my favorites of 2014.

– Tiffany Valdez

“Take Me to Church” by Hozier

I picked “Take Me to Church” as my top song of 2014. Although it was released in 2013 and blew up in Ireland, it didn’t become a big hit in the US until a few months into 2014. I think this is the top song of the year because of Hozier’s unique voice and the powerful message of the music video. He explains that the song is “not an indictment against religion, but against institutions that undermine some of the more natural parts of being a person-that undermine humanity [itself].” This song is especially important in the present day because of all the media and political discussion about LGBT rights and the music video is a harsh reminder of the torture that some people still endure for their beliefs. It helps that he wrote this song in an attic in Ireland-not expecting it to be a hit or to get radio play, but simply because he felt it needed to be written.

-Fatema Sabir

“Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift has done it again. With her single “Shake it Off,” there was fear that her debut album into pop would be filled with catchy songs that had little substance, but “Wildest Dreams” reminds us that the old Taylor is still there. She just comes with a twist now. Gone are the days where Taylor would pine after boys and wish for them to come back, this song shows a confident Taylor who knows the impression she leaves won’t be forgotten any time soon. With the words in this song she paints a story that could easily belong to anyone of us. Who will be haunted with your memory the day they make the mistake of leaving you? This song is far less playful than most others on 1989, the lyrics are poignant while still hopeful.

– Natasha Naik

 “Tuesday” by ILoveMakonnen featuring Drake

When you hear the phrase “going up” is your first response not “on a Tuesday?” The song “Tuesday” by ILoveMakonnen featuring Drake broke the internet to say the least. It became the theme song for many vines and the soundtrack to late 2014. Now we all look forward to that mundane day of the week so we can blast the song at ignorant levels and in fact go up, on a Tuesday.

– Candy Rodriguez

“Loyal” By Chris Brown featuring Lil Wayne and French Montana/Tyga

Chris Brown may have had rough year with the media, but his hit “Loyal” from his sixth studio album, ‘X’, had a phenomenal year on the charts. Peaking at Number 9 on the US Billboard chart, Chris Brown brought us an East Coast and West Coast version of the hit discrediting “un-loyal” women. Contrary to popular opinion, Chris Brown has always remained one of my favorite artists, and “Loyal” as well as his album, reminded the world of his talent and why people like myself are still in awe with his creativity and art.

– Jasmine Bass

“The Worst” by Jhene Aiko

The Worst by Jhene Aiko takes the cake for me when it comes to song of the year. The song was released in January and still holds a position on the Billboard 100. Not to mention, the radio play is bananas.

– De’Andra Hurd

“Dark Horse” by Katy Perry featuring Juicy J

Throughout the years, unexpected collaborations were becoming, well… LESS UNEXPECTED. It seemed as if every genre crossed paths, and somewhat gave birth to a subgenre. Still, something about hearing “Katy Perry and Juicy J!” makes people think, “bish whet??”  Katy Perry’s bubble gum poppy flavor, and the raw trap stylings of Juicy J, make the perfect blend of turn up music! Dark Horse dominated the charts in 2014, and paved a way for other artists to crossover into even more unexpected collaborations and genres.

– Tobechi Oparah

“0 to 100 / The Catch Up” by Drake

When this song was released, I knew it would be all over the radio waves and playing at every party scene. This song’s catchy beat along with Drake’s lyrical flow makes it a definite fan favorite. The second half of the song takes a sudden tempo change, but the Toronto rapper still stays true to the theme of the song. I have to admit, I listened to this song an unhealthy amount of times this year but you can’t blame me with this fire track!

– Rupal Mehta

“2 Hip Souls” by Cymbals Eat Guitars

“Lose” is the third studio album released by Staten Island indie rock band Cymbals Eat Guitars. The group has an overall indie rock tone, but touches into a punk rock or garage rock feel. This latest album has the undertones of death that has fueled the previous two albums. The lead singer’s best friend died at a very young age from a heart condition and all three albums have been colored from the traumatic incident. This album, however, branches into fond childhood memories making for a very intimate and enthralling album. The song that has my pick for the best of 2014 is “2 Hip Souls,” which is last on the album. The song has a very eerie sound, definitely something I wouldn’t have on my playlist when I am bartending on a Friday night. I do however enjoy listening to this song on repeat driving at night, or in the frigid dreary weather. It adds a sense of drama that I enjoy. The song is from the lead singer’s childhood. There was an accident at a campsite and his friend was severely injured, but came back to school months later with a Vicodin addiction. Give this song a listen, as well as the entire album. You won’t regret it!

– Corina Carrizales

“Chandelier” by Sia

“Chandelier” is the chart topping, breakout song from popular singer/songwriter, Sia. The song uses an electropop and reggae sound, with the incorporation of gloomy lyrics to paint the perfect picture of the typical “party girl” mindset. The fun beat presents the party vibe, while the lyrics display how sad the person being described truly is in her current state of mind. The fact that the song is written by Sia adds a more personal feel to the song, allowing the listener to better empathize with the singer. The single charted in the top five on record charts in six countries, and in the top ten in the United States. The song went platinum is six countries as well, and has earned her four Grammy nominations. “Chandelier” is definitely one of the best and most popular songs released this year.

– Micah McDonald

“My Heaven, My Rules” by Peter Escott

My pick for my favorite song is “My Heaven, My Rules” by Peter Escott, off of his debut solo album, The Big O.  Escott is a fascinating figure largely in part because of the dichotomy displayed between his two primary forms of artistic expression: he cracks niche, observational jokes as a stand-up comedian (Paul F. Tompkins is a fan), while he also makes somber, contemplative tunes as half of the Native Cats and now, as a solo artist.  Judging by “My Heaven, My Rules”, you would never guess Escott has a sense of humor.  The dark, atmospheric piano chords and philosophical lyrics that drive the song indicate that Escott is a serious and thoughtful man, and in the process, out-piano ballads fellow Australian songmaster Nick Cave.  Escott is, without a doubt, a prominent figure to watch in the Australian music scene, and “My Heaven, My Rules” should make everyone take notice.

– Travis Phillips

“***Flawless (Remix)” by Beyonce featuring Nicki Minaj

First the internet went crazy when Beyonce dropped her visual album, then completely ballistic when she teamed up with the highly acclaimed “Queen of Rap” to stand side by side with a remix of one of the hottest tracks. The original tracks impact on media and its social relevance brought with it an excitement and confidence that many people found themselves caught up in. It’s strong, empowering and gets the blood pumping. Nicki Minaj’s verse shined just as brightly as Yonce herself, an aggressive throttle in the lyrics that gained Minaj the position she has today. These megastars have shown what a great product can be made when confidence is shared and celebrated.

– Yalda Etemadi

“No Type” By Rae Sremmurd

Emerging in 2014 was the hip hop duo Rae Sremmurd.  Backed by some of the hottest names in the scene and with Mike Will Made It producing their hits, it’s no surprise that Rae Sremmurd made the top 20 of 2014 with “No Type.”  The first big jam to hit listeners ears was “No Flex Zone,” not shortly after came “No Type” and the duo has not stop making hits.

– Jeff Gower

“Fancy” by Iggy Azalea featuring Charlie XCX

To be honest, this was the first time I heard a song by Iggy and I LOVED IT. It was catchy and the video was based off my favorite movie and show “Clueless.” The success of this hit gave Iggy her big break and made her a household name.  Now, she has gone to become a pop-rap sensation!

– Sunita Dharani

*BONUS*

“7/11” by Beyonce

You may say you don’t care about this song, but I KNOW YOU CARE. Beyonce rarely fails to please and this song is no different. What a great way to end the year. This song is carefree and fun and means just what you want it to. Take a moment to appreciate one of the richest women in the world, one of the most hailed and respected artists in the world, decided to make a low budget music video of her and her friends just dancing around in a hotel room in their underwear. It blows my mind. Beyonce is just having a good time and doing whatever the hell she wants. Something we call could learn from.

– Natasha Naik

http://open.spotify.com/user/126863451/playlist/1nkcKktHL2dtaUjXWF1v3l