Top 10 Paramore Tracks: A Definitive Ranking
Paramore is one of the most influential and successful rock bands of the 21st century. Since their debut in 2005, they have released six studio albums, five EPs, two live albums, and 27 singles, selling over 12 million records worldwide. They have also won numerous awards, including a Grammy for Best Rock Song in 2015 for “Ain’t It Fun”.
Paramore’s music has evolved over the years, from pop-punk and emo to synth-pop and new wave, but they have always maintained their signature sound of catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and honest lyrics. They have also dealt with various challenges, such as lineup changes, hiatuses, and personal struggles, but they have always come back stronger and more creative.
With such a rich and diverse discography, it is hard to pick the best Paramore songs, but we have tried to do so based on their popularity, impact, quality, and personal preference. Here are our top 10 Paramore tracks, ranked from worst to best.
10. Decode (2008)
Decode was written for the soundtrack of the first Twilight movie, based on the bestselling vampire romance novel by Stephenie Meyer. The song captures the theme of the story, which is about a human girl who falls in love with a vampire boy and the complications that arise from their relationship. The song also showcases Hayley Williams’ vocal range and emotion, as well as the band’s ability to create a dark and dramatic atmosphere with their guitars and drums.
Decode was a huge hit for Paramore, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the Alternative Songs chart. It also received a Grammy nomination for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media. It is one of Paramore’s most recognisable songs and a fan favourite.
9. Misery Business (2007)
Misery Business is the lead single from Paramore’s second album Riot!, which catapulted them to mainstream success. It is a fast-paced and energetic song that features one of the most iconic riffs in pop-punk history. The song is about confronting a rival who stole the narrator’s crush and getting revenge by exposing her flaws and insecurities.
Misery Business was Paramore’s first charting single on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 26. It also reached number three on the Alternative Songs chart and number one on the UK Rock Chart. It has been certified triple platinum by the RIAA for selling over three million copies in the US.
However, Misery Business has also been criticised for its lyrics, which some people consider to be sexist and slut-shaming. Williams herself has expressed regret over writing some of the lines, such as “once a whore, you’re nothing more”, and has stopped performing the song live since 2018.
8. Still Into You (2013)
Still Into You is the second single from Paramore’s self-titled fourth album, which marked a departure from their previous sound and style. The song is a bright and bubbly pop tune that celebrates being in love with someone for a long time and not losing the spark or passion. The song is inspired by Williams’ relationship with Chad Gilbert, the guitarist of New Found Glory, whom she married in 2016 and divorced in 2017.
Still Into You was a commercial success for Paramore, reaching number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number eight on the UK Singles Chart. It also became their highest-charting single in Australia, peaking at number three. It has been certified platinum by the RIAA for selling over one million copies in the US.
7. Hard Times (2017)
Hard Times is the lead single from Paramore’s fifth album After Laughter, which saw them embrace a more synth-pop and new wave direction. The song is influenced by bands such as Blondie, Talking Heads, and The B-52’s. The song contrasts its upbeat and catchy melody with its depressing and cynical lyrics, which reflect Williams’ struggles with depression and anxiety.
Hard Times was well received by critics and fans alike, who praised its retro vibe and its honesty. It reached number 90 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number five on the Alternative Songs chart. It also became their first top 40 hit in France, where it peaked at number 39.
6. Ignorance (2009)
Ignorance is the first single from Paramore’s third album Brand New Eyes, which was released after a period of tension and conflict within the band. The song is a fiery and aggressive rock anthem that addresses the issues and frustrations that the band members had with each other, especially Williams and the Farro brothers, who left the band in 2010. The song also serves as a metaphor for any toxic relationship that needs to end.
Ignorance was a hit for Paramore, reaching number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 15 on the UK Singles Chart. It also topped the Alternative Songs chart and the UK Rock Chart. It has been certified gold by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies in the US.
5. The Only Exception (2010)
The Only Exception is the third single from Brand New Eyes and the only ballad on the album. It is a soft and tender acoustic song that expresses Williams’ fear of falling in love and commitment, due to her parents’ divorce when she was young. However, she also admits that she has found someone who makes her feel differently and who might be the only exception to her rule.
The Only Exception was a surprise hit for Paramore, as it showcased a different side of their music and personality. It reached number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 17 on the UK Singles Chart. It also received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
4. Ain’t It Fun (2014)
Ain’t It Fun is the fourth single from Paramore’s self-titled album and their most successful song to date. It is a funky and upbeat song that features a gospel choir, xylophone, and bass guitar. The song is about growing up and facing the harsh realities of life, such as being independent, responsible, and accountable. The song also mocks those who are naive and sheltered from the real world.
Ain’t It Fun was a smash hit for Paramore, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming their first top 10 single in the US. It also reached number two on the Alternative Songs chart and number six on the UK Singles Chart. It won a Grammy for Best Rock Song in 2015, making Paramore the first female-fronted band to win in that category.
3. That’s What You Get (2008)
That’s What You Get is the second single from Riot! and one of Paramore’s most popular songs. It is a catchy and energetic pop-punk song that deals with the consequences of falling in love with someone who hurts you. The song also reflects Williams’ personal experience with a failed relationship at the time.
That’s What You Get was a hit for Paramore, reaching number 66 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 17 on the UK Singles Chart. It also reached number three on the Alternative Songs chart and number one on the UK Rock Chart. It has been certified platinum by the RIAA for selling over one million copies in the US.
2. Crushcrushcrush (2007)
Crushcrushcrush is another pop-punk song from Riot! that is about having a crush on someone who doesn’t notice you or who is already taken. It is a fun and catchy song that features a distorted vocal effect and a clap-along chorus. The song also expresses the frustration and impatience of waiting for the crush to reciprocate or make a move.
Crushcrushcrush was a hit for Paramore, reaching number 54 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 26 on the UK Singles Chart. It also reached number four on the Alternative Songs chart and number one on the UK Rock Chart. It has been certified platinum by the RIAA for selling over one million copies in the US.
1. Brick by Boring Brick (2009)
Brick by Boring Brick is not only our favorite Paramore song, but also one of their most complex and meaningful ones. It is an epic rock song that tells a story of a girl who lives in a fantasy world to escape her problems, but ends up losing herself in it. The song uses fairy tale imagery to convey its message, such as castles, dragons, witches, and wolves. The song also encourages listeners to face reality and deal with their issues instead of running away from them.
Brick by Boring Brick was a hit for Paramore, reaching number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number eight on the UK Singles Chart. It also reached number two on the Alternative Songs chart and number one on the UK Rock Chart.
The Bottom Line
Paramore is a band that has proven their versatility and talent over the years, with songs that range from pop-punk and emo to synth-pop and new wave. They have also faced many challenges and changes, but they have always stayed true to themselves and their fans. Their songs are catchy, powerful, and honest, and they touch on various themes such as love, loss, growth, and reality. Here are our top 10 Paramore tracks, ranked from worst to best:
- 10. Decode (2008)
- 9. Misery Business (2007)
- 8. Still Into You (2013)
- 7. Hard Times (2017)
- 6. Ignorance (2009)
- 5. The Only Exception (2010)
- 4. Ain’t It Fun (2014)
- 3. That’s What You Get (2008)
- 2. Crushcrushcrush (2007)
- 1. Brick by Boring Brick (2009)
What do you think of our ranking? Do you agree or disagree? What are your favourite Paramore songs? Let us know in the comments below!
