Top 5 Singles (US)
by Michael
1. Gnarls Barkley - Crazy
There is a reason why "Crazy" became the first #1 single based solely on digital downloads. It is the catchiest song of the year, no ifs, ands, or buts. The song is anchored by Cee-Lo's soulful and high-note melodies. The lyrics aren't anything groundbreaking, this is pop music after all, but when Cee-Lo sings all worries vanish. Dangermouse backs Mr. Lo with a mix of classic hip-hop beats and the unique musical arrangements that one could only expect from the man wacky enough to mash The Beatles and Jay-Z.
2. Peeping Tom - Mojo
Mr. Patton is at it again. When is he not involved with something? This time around, Patton has turned his focus towards the world of pop music. And while it may still be left-of-center as far as mainstream pop is considered, "Mojo" is a song destined for the hippest of nightclubs. The human beat-boxer himself, Rahzel, contributes his vocal talents while Dan the Automator provides his artificial ones. And while you won't find any crunk inspired bootyshakin', you will find a solid beat to groove to.
3. Rihanna - S.O.S.
Take one sample from a notorious 80's pop tune and one of today's hottest female talents and what do you get? One of the hottest club tunes of 2006, that's what. I had never heard of Rihanna prior to a night out at my weekly music trivia contest game at my local BW3. But after hearing "S.O.S.", I was hooked. The song is anchored around a sample from "Tainted Love." Add in some urban dance beats - think J-Lo - and you've got a club hit. Well after adding in Rihanna's sultry vocals of course.
4. Eagles of Death Metal - I Want You So Hard (Boy's Bad News)
Rock-n-roll is alive and well, there is no doubt about that. "I Want You So Hard (Boy's Bad News)" is the first single from the Eagles of Death Metal's second album. Frontman Jesse "the Devil" Hughes lays down sexual-laced lyrics to a soundtrack of garage-tinged rock-n-roll. Sure, it doesn't hurt to have Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme on the drumkit. But regardless, this tune kicks serious ass, and the music video is quite humorous. Jagger would be proud.
