27 Songs To 27: 2017

Alas, the last song on the list. After going back and forward between songs, I believe this one best suits me. Sharing with you my past memories, there is nothing I am ashamed about my early years. There may have been moments that I regret, but they all have made me the person that I am today.

From the start of her career, this artist has received criticism no matter what she did. From a child star to taking an extreme turn to steer away from her past, this artist has come to love every part of her past. I love that idea, and this song is a term of endearment where one accepts who they were before, and the person the will become.

Thank you to all who watched one (or all) of the songs, I look forward to turning 27:

27 Songs To 27: 2016

This artist may know a thing or two about love, and it's absolutely inspiring. While she may have to defend herself (as appose to her male counterparts), she does it in a brilliant way through her music. There is no denying the talent behind this artist and the emotions she goes through which every one can relate.

When I first heard this song, it instantly became my favourite track from the album. Very retro Pop, this song proves that this artist was meant to sing outside of her Country background. Not to mention, this was my theme song of 2015 - it helped me during my low times, in short.

So glad that this song was released for 2016, even if it was originally a bonus track:

27 Songs To 27: 2015

Thank you American Music Awards for inviting this artist back in 2014. Ever since I laid my eyes on her, I have been a big fan of her music. Seems like almost every year, this artist comes out with new music, selecting a favourite song would be a challenge. But alas, this song will always be my top pick from this artist.

Asides from music, this artist is quite the writer. Her first poetry book "2Fish" is a blend of notes, thoughts, and in-depth stories about her personal life - the more I get to know her, the more I see her inner beauty. There is nothing but up for this artist and her career towards success.

Nothing quite strikes me like this song, for its simple composure and elegance:

27 Songs To 27: 2014

I do wish that the X Factor was still on in North America, it was the only singing show that I truly enjoyed. From the production to the talent, that show had the whole package. Fortunately, the X Factor is still much alive in other parts of the world.

This contestant was just 16 years old when she auditioned for the show, and made an impact to the audience. Although the artist places sixth in her season, she would follow up with a strong single two years later on. One song made an impact to the world, dominating the charts across the ocean - and it's not difficult to see why. From the vocals to the outstanding range, it's a song that was make one shine.

My rendition may be a bit crackling, but it's still a favourite of mine to belt out:

27 Songs To 27: 2013

Who would have thought that Electronic Dance Music could transform into something magical. I am thoroughly impressed with the direction of EDM and their power-packed emotions in each song. And not to mention, the diversity of sounds and their ballad renditions.

2013 was an excellent year for both artists, as their success would continue in the years to come. Their collaboration earned them recognition from other artists, and bring my attention to their music. I still love both artists to this day, despite the commercialism of their sounds. Just goes to show that one shot is all it takes to get to the top, and stay there.

Although my voice cracks at the high notes, it's still my favourite song to sing along:

27 Songs To 27: 2012

What is there to say about this artist other than 'wild.' From her eccentric style to songs that range in every genre, this artist has just done about everything in her career. Rapping may be her strength, but can she sing some catchy tunes.

Arguably one of countless summer anthems, this song was everywhere. I have too many moments when this song would come up in the club, and every one would lose their mind. And the best part? Every one was singing along to the song (or, at least one part of the song). Maybe she will release another summer anthem this year.

To my friends, thanks for the memories, we will be having more moments like these soon:

27 Songs To 27: 2011

'Can't stop, won't stop' would probably be the motto for this artist. Whether you love him or hate him, there is no denial that this artist has made an impact in the music industry. From representation in the industry to endlessly winning awards, this artist has mastered his craft.

I believe that this artist truly shines through his love songs, as he pours out his emotions in every performance. Ballads are the reason why I adore this artist, and consider him as one of my influences. Although he has been experimenting with his sound, I look forward to the next slow jam that comes out from him.

Who knew that even this artist can make vampires and werewolves appealing for the soundtrack:

27 Songs To 27: 2010

Entering 2010 required putting your hands in the air - literally. That summer saw a number of songs with that reference, and it was inescapable. However, one artist that made everyone do said action, mostly due to the constant playback on the radio...

Coming from the United Kingdom, this artist already made a name for himself in his home country. His collaboration with Ludacris may helped him gain attention for his fans in North America, but this song was everyone's cup of tea (forgive me for the British reference). Not sure what it was about this song, but everyone loved it - and you got to admit, it's one catchy song.

Let's get the party jumping, and get that party started, all dressed in black for the summer season:

27 Songs To 27: 2009

Artists who made an impact in a short amount of time: this one. Her career began in 2008, but 2009 made her into a star. With hard work and a unique dynamic, this artist managed to differentiate from other Pop acts.

One of the greatest debut albums of all time, this artist subjected fame and people's obsession with the concept. From partying to curiosity, what would one do to gain all of the attention? Her final single off the album would be one for the books, as it presented her as an artist. From fashion to vocal range, there would be no doubt that this artist would here for a long time.

Nothing wrong with an obsession, it pulls apart the nerve one has to get what they want:

27 Songs To 27: 2008

American Idol is the only show that produce successful acts - I hope that the new season follows that suit. I remember watching the first three seasons, but did not follow much afterwards. But the beauty of the show is how relevant some acts stand to this day.

This artist had a lot of success at the beginning of her career, having a number of hits off her debut album. Her third single has been my favourite song, even to this day - it's a global answer to life. When things don't go according to plan, don't worry: everything falls into place eventually.

I know I can't hit the high notes like this artist, but here is my attempt for the song of 2008:

27 Songs To 27: 2007

Feels like this artist has been with us forever, as she will be celebrating her 13th year in music. So much has come from this artist, from her philanthropy work to being a fashion icon. Best part of it all? She managed to do all of this by herself (she don't need a man).

Although this artist may not be in love at the moment, she sure does know how to belt out in the ballads. Until recently, this artist has always performed this single throughout her concerts, and I never get tired listening to the song. A true classic, as it brings out the honesty about love - or, crushed.

My mood at the moment, I look forward to the day I can't stand somehow for much I love them:

27 Songs To 27: 2006

This would be the year that I would have gotten my braces removed, "The Devil Wears Prada" came out in theatres, and music became a game-changer. Artists were trying new sounds, while new acts were coming out with solid singles.

This 2006 song would eventually become one of the best for that year. Although, for some reason, this also reminds me of an Adele song (see if you can figure that out). But the inspiration behind this song comes from a place I'm sure we can all relate to in ourselves. Whether you like it or not, balancing a perfect life requires some risky chances.

The hardest part would had to be the ad-libs, I wasn't sure where I was going for the end:

27 Songs To 27: 2005

I haven't heard much from this band in recent years, and I do hope that they release new music. What can be deemed as 'Christian Rock,' this band has been a staple in Pop Culture, with two songs coming up to mind for commercialism. Their debut single, however, always stuck with me - it was on my mind.

2005 saw the release of the song, but would perform better the following year. I admire the confusion within the song, and how it depicts the aftermath of being in love... What can I say, your teen years were all about feeling new emotions. While I may not completely understand the message, there is always something new to learn after each listen.

The song is seamless, from beginning to end, and I can only hope that I performed the song well:

27 Songs To 27: 2004

"Sing a song in a foreign language, it'll be fun," I told myself... Despite the big challenge for this 2004 hit, I grew up with a number of Japanese and Korean music; I have my cousin to thank for his influence.

There has always been something about Asian music that sounds more interesting, perhaps it's their use of instruments of level of production. Either way, there is no denial that Asian music can be some of the catchiest songs you'll ever hear. When these two acts came together, my 13-year-old self couldn't handle the epicness of the song.

The best in Asian music, even though I have no clue what is the general message of the song:

27 Songs To 27: 2003

I enjoyed this artist and her music - it's such a shame that her TV persona took place for her recognition. But she was more than portraying the 'dumb blonde' persona, as her music brings out memories of my pre-teen days; ah, when times were much simpler. What impresses me the most would be how her music has aged (aside from the Country attempt).

This song was solely responsible for the success of her reality TV show with her then husband, as well as her album sales - now how could one say that's a dumb blonde move? Think back when the times were simple and easy going - that is the essence of this song.

Epitome of love, you are all wrapped up nicely in a three-minute song that gets better with time:

27 Songs To 27: 2002

It makes sense why this artist got into making shoes for women: his guitar play is infectiously sexy. Not familiar with his older work, this artist would have gotten my attention through endless radio play and his brilliant collaborations throughout my childhood. Don't know how this artist managed to stay relevant throughout his career, but I am satisfied with all of his work.

The early 2000s brought out the best work from the guitarist, as he collaborated with artists from Pop to R&B, and most recently, Rock. His style is versatile, and his sound will always bring people together. I am particularly fond of his 2002 work with this Pop-Rock artist that would eventually win my heart.

I hope I did justice for this Grammy-Award winning single (it's a absolute thrill):

27 Songs To 27: 2001

The definition of 'born to stand out.' This artist may have competed with other teen idols throughout the Nineties and early 2000s, but what made her unique was her diversity. Although she did not achieve the success of her predecessors, she was able to venture into new grounds - and I am certainly glad that she did.

2001 was a magical year for this artist, as she transitioned from singing into acting. From small appearances to being the main role in a Nicholas Sparks film, this role would make this artist into a star. The movie was a success, leading to other memorable roles such as the voice of Rapunzel in "Tangled," and Rebecca Pearson on the show "This Is Us."

But nothing can replace this artist's song, as it's the theme to one of my favourite films:

27 Songs To 27: 2000

It's a new dawn, it's a new day - it's Y2K (why don't we use that anymore?) This year was prime music, all of your favourite acts in the Nineties emerged with new energy, and they were all non-stop. This duo would also follow such status.

Probably best known for the love theme to a movie that didn't even relate to the message, the duo gained a lot of attention, especially on YTV's "The HitList" (my absolute favourite show as a child, mostly because I mostly grew up without cable television). The duo are childhood friends, and released two albums before venturing into solo careers. But I will always remember these sweet girls with a rather mature sound.

I was out of breath with this song, and tried to sing every part (including the back-up):

27 Songs To 27: 1999

Saved the best for the finale of the Nineties. This artist would eventually become a trendsetter, but also one of the most influential artists of my generation... Needless to say, this artist has been my favourite since day one.

Hit after hit, it was hard to select one song as my favourite. But this 1999 remix would rank top spot for me. The song was the main theme for a movie that would eventually change the name to match the single - if that doesn't say influential, then I don't know what would be.

She can sing and dance - I tried to do both at the same time (hopefully I did justice to the song):

27 Songs To 27: 1998

The epitome of teen idols. This artist dominated the Nineties, and was able to diversify herself through acting and singing - that's impressive for a 19-year-old. From TV to film, and working on an album at the same time; there was no chance of slowing down this artist.

My sister was a big fan of this artist, from watching her show (alongside with the other UPN shows at the time) to owning the album. I continued to follow this artist throughout the 2000s, and I look forward to her next body of work. 1998 was a good year for this artist, having hit after hit, and progressing with her sound.

Maybe not an ideal prom song, but the song definitely has the mood for a slow dance: