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One Direction was one of the biggest boy bands of the 2010s, formed on the UK’s version of the X Factor in 2010. Consisting of members Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and former member Zayn Malik, the band quickly became a global phenomenon with their catchy pop songs, charming personalities, and devoted fanbase. Over the course of their career, One Direction released five studio albums and numerous singles, earning them numerous awards and record-breaking sales. With so many hit songs to choose from, it can be difficult to pick just a few favorites. However, we have compiled a list of the 20 best One Direction songs that showcase the band’s musical talent and memorable lyrics. From the upbeat and catchy “What Makes You Beautiful” to the emotional ballad “Story of My Life,” One Direction’s music has left a lasting impact on pop culture and continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
1. ‘Best Song Ever’ (2013) By:One Direction
“Best Song Ever” is an upbeat pop-rock track by the British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2013 as a single from their third studio album “Midnight Memories”. The song features catchy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and an infectious melody that will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time. The lyrics describe a wild and memorable night out with a girl, with the chorus declaring that the experience was the “best song ever” and that they “knew every line” of it. With its high-energy sound and playful lyrics, “Best Song Ever” is a feel-good anthem that captures the spirit of youthful exuberance and fun.
2. ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ (2011) By:One Direction
“What Makes You Beautiful” is the debut single by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2011. The song is a bubbly pop track with an upbeat tempo, featuring catchy guitar riffs, clapping beats, and a sing-along chorus. The lyrics focus on a guy who is telling a girl that she is beautiful just the way she is, and that her insecurities are unfounded. The song’s message of self-love and acceptance is delivered with a youthful and carefree attitude, making it an instant hit among the band’s predominantly teenage fan base. “What Makes You Beautiful” became a chart-topping success, propelling One Direction to international stardom.
3. ‘Steal My Girl’ (2014) By:One Direction
“Steal My Girl” is a pop-rock track by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2014 as the lead single from their fourth studio album “Four”. The song features a driving beat, sing-along chorus, and a catchy melody that showcases the band’s vocal harmonies. The lyrics describe a guy who is fiercely protective of his girlfriend, proclaiming that no one else could ever love her the way he does. The song’s bridge features a spoken-word interlude by actor Danny DeVito, adding a touch of humor and quirkiness to the track. “Steal My Girl” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and solidifying One Direction’s status as a global pop phenomenon.
4. ‘Kiss You’ (2012) By:One Direction
“Kiss You” is a pop-rock track by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2012 as the second single from their sophomore album “Take Me Home”. The song features a fast-paced beat, lively guitar riffs, and catchy chorus that make it an instantly infectious and danceable tune. The lyrics describe a guy who is trying to convince a girl to kiss him, expressing his desire for her with playful and flirty verses. The song’s music video features the band in a variety of colorful and zany outfits, dancing and goofing around, which perfectly matches the upbeat and carefree vibe of the song. “Kiss You” was a commercial success, becoming a fan favorite and a staple of One Direction’s live performances.
5. ‘Story of My Life’ (2013 )By:One Direction
“Story of My Life” is a heartfelt pop ballad by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2013 as the second single from their third studio album “Midnight Memories”. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and strings that accompany the band’s vocal harmonies, giving it a more mature and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of life and the importance of family, with each member of the band reflecting on their own personal experiences. The song’s music video features the band and their family members in a series of nostalgic and intimate snapshots, adding a layer of emotional depth to the song. “Story of My Life” was a commercial and critical success, earning One Direction praise for their songwriting and musicianship.
6. ‘Midnight Memories’ (2013) By:One Direction
“Midnight Memories” is the title track and third single from One Direction’s third studio album, released in 2013. The song is an energetic pop-rock track, featuring prominent electric guitar riffs, driving drums, and a catchy chorus that showcases the band’s vocal harmonies. The lyrics describe a wild night out with friends, with the chorus urging listeners to “forget about the deadlines, it’s time to get away”. The song’s youthful and carefree vibe, coupled with its rock-inspired sound, marked a departure from One Direction’s earlier pop ballads, and showcased the band’s growth and versatility as artists. “Midnight Memories” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries.
7. ‘Night Changes’ (2014) By:One Direction
“Night Changes” is a romantic pop ballad by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2014 as the second single from their fourth studio album “Four”. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, and strings that accompany the band’s harmonies, giving it a soft and intimate sound. The lyrics describe a guy taking his date out on a romantic night, envisioning different scenarios and expressing his desire for a deeper connection. The song’s music video features each member of the band on individual dates, highlighting the fleeting nature of romance and the importance of enjoying the present moment. “Night Changes” was a commercial and critical success, cementing One Direction’s reputation as skilled songwriters and performers.
8. ‘Live While We’re Young’ (2012) By:One Direction
“Live While We’re Young” is an upbeat and catchy pop song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2012 as the lead single from their second studio album “Take Me Home”. The song features a fast-paced beat, handclaps, and an infectious chorus that encourages listeners to embrace youth and live in the moment. The lyrics describe a party scene with friends, evoking a carefree and lighthearted atmosphere. The music video features the band goofing around, camping, and having fun in a variety of playful scenarios, perfectly matching the song’s energetic and youthful vibe. “Live While We’re Young” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries.
9. ‘Where Do Broken Hearts Go’ (2014) By:One Direction
“Where Do Broken Hearts Go” is a poignant pop-rock ballad by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2014 as the fourth single from their fourth studio album “Four”. The song features electric guitar, piano, and a driving beat that accompany the band’s vocal harmonies, giving it a powerful and emotional sound. The lyrics describe a guy trying to find love again after a broken heart, asking the question “where do broken hearts go?” in a plea for guidance and hope. The song’s chorus is especially impactful, with each member of the band belting out the lyrics in a soaring and emotional crescendo. “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” was a commercial success, showcasing One Direction’s range as musicians and songwriters.
10. ‘Little Things’ (2012) By:One Direction
“Little Things” is a gentle and heartfelt ballad by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2012 as the second single from their second studio album “Take Me Home”. The song features acoustic guitar and a soft piano melody, creating a simple yet emotional sound. The lyrics describe the beauty of imperfection and the value of individuality in a relationship, highlighting the small but meaningful details that make a person unique. The song’s intimate and personal tone, coupled with the band’s emotional delivery, make it a touching and relatable love song. “Little Things” was a commercial success, earning praise for its honest and vulnerable portrayal of love.
11. ‘You & I’ (2013) By:One Direction
“You & I” is a romantic pop ballad by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2014 as the fourth and final single from their third studio album “Midnight Memories”. The song features a piano-driven melody, building up to a soaring chorus with powerful harmonies and a memorable hook. The lyrics describe a passionate and enduring love, with the band singing “nobody can drag me down” as a testament to their commitment. The music video features each member of the band singing in different locations, showcasing their individual talents while highlighting the strength of their bond. “You & I” was a commercial success, demonstrating One Direction’s ability to create heartfelt and inspiring pop music.
12. ‘Diana’ (2013) By:One Direction
“Diana” is an upbeat and catchy pop rock song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2013 as a promotional single from their third studio album “Midnight Memories”. The song features driving guitar riffs, a pounding drumbeat, and a singalong chorus that showcases the band’s infectious energy. The lyrics describe a girl named Diana and the band’s fascination with her, with each member taking turns singing her praises. The song’s music video features the band performing in front of screaming fans, highlighting their popularity and charisma. “Diana” was a commercial success, demonstrating One Direction’s ability to create high-energy and memorable pop rock anthems.
13. ‘One Thing’ (2011) By:One Direction
“One Thing” is an upbeat and catchy pop song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2012 as the second single from their debut album “Up All Night”. The song features a lively beat, guitar riffs, and a singalong chorus that showcases the band’s harmonies and charisma. The lyrics describe the power of love and the importance of pursuing it despite obstacles, with the band singing “I’ve tried playing it cool, but when I’m looking at you, I can’t ever be brave, cause you make my heart race”. The music video features the band performing and goofing around in London, adding to the song’s carefree and fun-loving vibe. “One Thing” was a commercial success, earning praise for its youthful and optimistic sound.
14. ‘Stockholm Syndrome’ (2014) By:One Direction
“Stockholm Syndrome” is a moody and intense pop rock song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2014 as a track from their fourth studio album “Four”. The song features a haunting melody and driving guitar riffs, creating a dark and emotional sound. The lyrics describe a toxic and complicated love, with the band singing “we’re on the run, chasing the sun, only seventeen”. The song’s title refers to a psychological phenomenon where hostages develop a bond with their captors, adding to the song’s ominous and unsettling tone. “Stockholm Syndrome” showcases One Direction’s ability to explore darker themes and create mature and nuanced pop music.
15. ‘Girl Almighty’ (2014) By:One Direction
“Girl Almighty” is an upbeat and energetic pop song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2014 as a track from their fourth studio album “Four”. The song features a driving beat, guitar riffs, and a singalong chorus that showcases the band’s harmonies and charisma. The lyrics celebrate the power and beauty of women, with the band singing “you don’t understand, you don’t understand, what you do to me”. The song’s music video features the band performing in front of a backdrop of colorful patterns, adding to the song’s vibrant and joyful tone. “Girl Almighty” is a fun and empowering pop anthem that showcases One Direction’s ability to create catchy and relatable music.
16. ‘Happily’ (2013) By:One Direction
“Happily” is an upbeat and optimistic pop rock song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2013 as a track from their third studio album “Midnight Memories”. The song features a catchy melody, guitar riffs, and a singalong chorus that showcases the band’s harmonies and energy. The lyrics describe the joy of being in love and the sense of completeness that it brings, with the band singing “It’s not like we’re trying to get attention, we’re just trying to get by, the words you whisper, I’ll always believe”. The music video features the band performing in front of a live audience, highlighting their ability to connect with fans and create a sense of community through their music. “Happily” is a fun and uplifting pop anthem that showcases One Direction’s ability to create feel-good and relatable music.
17. ‘Gotta Be You’ (2011) By:One Direction
“Gotta Be You” is a mid-tempo pop ballad by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2011 as the second single from their debut album “Up All Night”. The song features a soft and melodic sound, with acoustic guitars and piano creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. The lyrics describe the struggle of moving on from a past love and the hope of finding a new one, with the band singing “Can we fall, one more time, stop the tape and rewind, cause there is nobody else”. The music video features the band members each pursuing a love interest, adding to the song’s theme of young love and romance. “Gotta Be You” was a commercial success, earning praise for its heartfelt lyrics and emotional performance by the band.
18. ‘Rock Me’ (2012)By:One Direction
“Rock Me” is an upbeat and energetic pop rock song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2012 as a track from their second studio album “Take Me Home”. The song features a driving beat, guitar riffs, and a singalong chorus that showcases the band’s harmonies and charisma. The lyrics describe the excitement and energy of a live performance, with the band singing “I want you to hit the pedal, heavy metal, show me you care”. The music video features the band performing in front of a backdrop of flashing lights and a cheering crowd, adding to the song’s high-energy and youthful tone. “Rock Me” is a fun and anthemic pop song that showcases One Direction’s ability to create catchy and memorable music.
19. ‘I Should Have Kissed You’ (2011) By:One Direction
“I Should Have Kissed You” is a pop rock song by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2011 as a bonus track from their debut album “Up All Night”. The song features an upbeat tempo, guitar riffs, and a catchy chorus that showcases the band’s vocals and harmonies. The lyrics describe the regret of not expressing one’s feelings to a love interest, with the band singing “Now I’m at home, I’m all alone, ’bout to pick up the telephone, got to call my genie”. The music video features the band members reminiscing about a past love interest, adding to the song’s nostalgic and romantic tone. “I Should Have Kissed You” is a feel-good and relatable pop song that highlights One Direction’s ability to create catchy and memorable music.
20. ‘One Way or Another (Teenage Kicks)’ (2013) By:One Direction
“One Way or Another (Teenage Kicks)” is a mashup of two classic songs by British-Irish boy band One Direction, released in 2013 as a charity single for Comic Relief. The song features a fast-paced tempo, guitar riffs, and a driving beat that showcases the band’s energy and enthusiasm. The lyrics combine the two songs, describing the pursuit of a love interest with a sense of urgency and excitement, with the band singing “One way or another, I’m gonna find ya, I’m gonna getcha getcha getcha”. The music video features the band members on a mission to raise money for charity, showcasing their fun and charismatic personalities. “One Way or Another (Teenage Kicks)” is a fun and catchy pop song that highlights One Direction’s ability to put their own spin on classic songs.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.