Justin Bieber's 2017 Hits: A Song-by-Song Guide

Hey guys! Let's dive into the musical world of Justin Bieber in 2017. It was a pretty exciting year for the Biebz, filled with collaborations and some solo bangers that had everyone humming. We're going to break down each song, giving you the lowdown on what made them special and why they were such earworms.

Friends (with BloodPop®)

"Friends" marked a significant return to the poppier sounds that initially catapulted Bieber to superstardom, but with a matured, contemporary twist. Released in August 2017, this track saw Justin team up with producer BloodPop®, a name already well-regarded for his work with artists like Justin himself, as well as Lady Gaga and many more. The collaboration proved to be a masterstroke, blending Bieber's now-familiar vocal texture with BloodPop®'s knack for crafting infectious, cutting-edge pop melodies. Immediately, the song distinguished itself with its minimalistic yet hyper-catchy production. Instead of overwhelming listeners with layers of sounds, "Friends" cleverly uses space and rhythm to create a tune that’s almost impossible to shake off. The simplicity of the arrangement, combined with the directness of the lyrics, made the song an instant hit at parties, on the radio, and across streaming platforms. The lyrical content of "Friends" is straightforward and universally relatable. It speaks directly to the idea of reconnecting with someone from your past with whom you share a deep connection, asking if the possibility of just being friends is still on the table. This theme resonated widely, as it taps into the nostalgia and complexities of past relationships. Bieber’s delivery of the lyrics is particularly effective. There’s a sense of vulnerability mixed with a hopeful expectation that makes the listener truly feel the sentiment behind the words. Furthermore, the song's structure is ingeniously designed to stick in your head. The chorus is relentlessly catchy, repeating the central question of the song in a way that ensures it lodges firmly in the listener’s memory. This, coupled with the song’s relatively short length, makes it perfect for repeat listens. The success of "Friends" can also be attributed to its savvy release and promotion. Capitalizing on Bieber’s massive social media following, the song was teased and promoted extensively across various platforms, creating a wave of anticipation that helped drive its initial popularity. Moreover, the official music video, while simple in its concept, perfectly complemented the song’s themes, further enhancing its appeal. Overall, "Friends" is a testament to the power of a well-crafted pop song. It combines strong production, relatable lyrics, and Justin Bieber’s star power to create a track that is both commercially successful and artistically satisfying. It solidified Bieber’s position as a pop icon capable of evolving his sound while still staying true to the elements that made him famous. For fans and critics alike, "Friends" was a highlight of 2017, demonstrating the ongoing relevance and influence of Justin Bieber in the music industry.

2U (David Guetta featuring Justin Bieber)

When you think of summer anthems, "2U" is definitely up there! This absolute banger saw Justin Bieber teaming up with none other than David Guetta, the legendary DJ and producer. Released in June 2017, this track was like a shot of pure energy. Guetta's signature electronic beats combined with Bieber's smooth vocals created a sound that was both irresistible and unforgettable. The song is all about expressing deep affection for someone, and Bieber's voice perfectly captures that sentiment. It’s one of those tracks you can’t help but dance to, whether you’re at a club or just chilling at home. "2U" quickly climbed the charts worldwide, becoming a staple on radio stations and streaming playlists. Its success wasn’t just down to the big names behind it; the song itself is incredibly well-crafted. The build-ups are epic, and the drop is pure euphoria. Plus, the music video featuring Victoria's Secret models lip-syncing to the song added another layer of visual appeal. It's safe to say that "2U" was one of the biggest collaborations of the year, showcasing the power of bringing together different musical worlds. David Guetta's expertise in electronic music combined seamlessly with Justin Bieber's pop sensibilities, resulting in a track that appealed to a wide audience. This song proved that Bieber could effortlessly transition between genres, further solidifying his status as a versatile artist. The impact of "2U" extended beyond just the charts. It became a cultural phenomenon, with people creating their own dance videos and sharing them online. The song's positive vibes and catchy melody made it a favorite for workouts, parties, and everything in between. Even now, years after its release, "2U" remains a go-to track for anyone looking to inject some energy into their day. It's a testament to the timelessness of a great collaboration and the enduring appeal of both David Guetta and Justin Bieber. So, next time you need a pick-me-up, give "2U" a listen – you won't be disappointed!

Despacito (Remix) (Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber)

Okay, let's be real – who didn't have "Despacito" stuck in their head in 2017? This remix featuring Justin Bieber took the already massive hit to stratospheric levels. Originally a Latin sensation by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, the addition of Bieber's vocals gave it a whole new global appeal. Released in April 2017, this version quickly became the song of the summer, dominating charts and airwaves worldwide. What made this remix so special was how seamlessly Bieber integrated into the track. He sang in both English and Spanish, adding a fresh dynamic to the song while respecting the original's Latin roots. It was a brilliant move that broadened the song's audience and introduced many non-Spanish speakers to the infectious rhythm of "Despacito." The success of "Despacito (Remix)" was undeniable. It broke records, topped charts for weeks on end, and became one of the most-viewed videos on YouTube. It wasn't just a hit song; it was a cultural phenomenon that transcended language barriers and brought people together through music. The impact of this remix on Justin Bieber's career was also significant. It showcased his ability to collaborate with artists from different genres and cultures, further solidifying his status as a global superstar. It also demonstrated his willingness to experiment with his sound and push creative boundaries. "Despacito (Remix)" remains a timeless track that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Bieber's smooth vocals make it an irresistible earworm that's guaranteed to get you moving. Whether you're a fan of Latin music or pop, there's no denying the impact and appeal of this iconic remix. So, crank up the volume and let the rhythm of "Despacito" take over!

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a quick trip down memory lane, reliving Justin Bieber's musical contributions in 2017. From the catchy beats of "Friends" to the collaborative magic of "2U" and the record-breaking success of "Despacito (Remix)," it was a year filled with some serious hits. These songs not only dominated the charts but also left a lasting impact on the music scene. They showcased Bieber's versatility as an artist and his ability to connect with audiences across different genres and cultures. Whether you're a die-hard Belieber or just a casual listener, there's no denying the impact of these tracks. They're a testament to the power of collaboration, the importance of pushing creative boundaries, and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted pop song. So, next time you're looking for a dose of nostalgia or just want to groove to some catchy tunes, give these Justin Bieber hits from 2017 a listen – you won't be disappointed!