As we reflect on the passage of time, it’s hard to believe that a quarter of a century has passed since the transformative year of 2001. The music of that era continues to resonate in today’s world, with Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On” being crowned the best song of the year by Consequence.
This honor comes as no surprise, given the lasting impact of the song. Rolling Stone even named it the best song of the 21st century so far. Consequence’s News Editor Eddie Fu praises the track for its creativity and everlasting wow factor, noting that it remains a sonic anomaly that stands apart from other artists.
Released in March 2001, “Get Ur Freak On” peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success was further solidified in 2023 when it was certified double-platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.
The rest of the top 10 songs of 2001 showcase the diversity of mainstream music at the time. Gorillaz, System of a Down, Alicia Keys, Kylie Minogue, The Strokes, Tool, Daft Punk, Jimmy Eat World, and Destiny’s Child all made the list, highlighting the range of genres and artists that were popular during that period.
Beyond the top 10, Consequence’s list of the best songs of 2001 includes gems like Blu Cantrell’s “Hit’ Em Up Style,” Tenacious D’s “Tribute,” Basement Jaxx’s “Where’s Your Head At,” and Andrew W.K’s “Party Hard.” Each track adds to the rich tapestry of music that defined the early 2000s.
As we look back on the music of 2001, it’s clear that the sounds of that era continue to influence artists and listeners today. Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On” remains a standout track that defies categorization and continues to captivate audiences with its innovative sound.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.