When it comes to chart-topping pop anthems, few artists have made as big a splash as Katy Perry. From candy-colored visuals to catchy hooks that dominate playlists, Katy has crafted some of the most unforgettable songs in pop history. Whether you first discovered her through Teenage Dream or got hooked on Roar, there’s no denying her knack for creating hits that stick.
In this article, we’re looking at Katy Perry’s most popular songs—the ones that defined her career, ruled the charts, and continue to live rent-free in our heads. Ready for a colorful pop ride? Let’s go!
What Is Katy Perry’s Biggest Hit Song?
Katy Perry’s breakout single, “I Kissed a Girl”, is widely regarded as her most popular song. Released in 2008 as the lead single from her album One of the Boys, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 for seven consecutive weeks starting July 5, 2008.
The track also achieved international success, reaching number one in multiple countries, including the UK and Australia. Its provocative lyrics and catchy melody sparked widespread attention, firmly establishing Perry as a prominent figure in the pop music scene.
Did You Know? Katy Perry is among the best-selling singers in music history—explore our full list of the best-selling singers of all time for more iconic names.
Katy Perry Number 1 Hits List (According To Billboard Rankings )
Katy Perry has dominated the Billboard Hot 100 with several chart-topping singles. Here’s a look at her number-one hits based on official Billboard rankings:
| Song Title | Album | Release Year | Weeks at #1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Kissed a Girl | One of the Boys | 2008 | 7 |
| California Gurls | Teenage Dream | 2010 | 6 |
| E.T. | Teenage Dream | 2011 | 5 |
| Dark Horse | Prism | 2013 | 4 |
| Firework | Teenage Dream | 2010 | 4 |
| Roar | Prism | 2013 | 2 |
| Teenage Dream | Teenage Dream | 2010 | 2 |
| Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.) | Teenage Dream | 2011 | 2 |
| Part of Me | Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection | 2012 | 1 |
These hits not only reached the number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 but also helped solidify Katy Perry as a true pop icon, especially with Teenage Dream, which produced a record-tying five number-one singles.
Katy Perry’s Top 10 Songs
Katy Perry has gifted us with numerous chart-topping hits that have defined pop music over the past decade. This list highlights her top 10 songs based on a combination of streaming numbers (primarily from Spotify), chart performance, cultural impact, and fan popularity.
These tracks not only showcase her versatility and talent but also represent the most played and beloved songs in her catalog.
| Song Title | Album | Release Year | Number of Streams |
|---|---|---|---|
| “I Kissed a Girl” | One of the Boys | 2008 | 1.04B |
| “Firework” | Teenage Dream | 2010 | 1.21B |
| “Teenage Dream” | Teenage Dream | 2010 | 933M |
| “Roar” | Prism | 2013 | 1.31B |
| “California Gurls” | Teenage Dream | 2010 | 1.01B |
| “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” | Teenage Dream | 2011 | 1.41B |
| “Dark Horse” | Prism | 2013 | 1.66B |
| “E.T.” | Teenage Dream | 2011 | 269M |
| “Hot N Cold” | One of the Boys | 2008 | 1.05B |
| “Wide Awake” | Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection | 2012 | 606M |
Let’s take a closer look at all the top songs of Katy Perry:
1. I Kissed a Girl
Katy Perry’s breakout hit, “I Kissed a Girl,” sparked global buzz in 2008 with its provocative lyrics and bold message. Blending rock and pop, it challenged norms and catapulted her into pop superstardom, becoming an anthem of self-expression and curiosity.
2. Firework
“Firework” is an empowering pop anthem that encourages self-confidence and embracing individuality. With soaring vocals and an explosive chorus, the song resonates with listeners facing self-doubt. It remains one of Perry’s most inspirational tracks, often associated with personal growth and inner strength.
3. Teenage Dream
A nostalgic love song wrapped in dreamy synths, “Teenage Dream” captures the euphoric feeling of young, passionate romance. Its catchy melody and wistful lyrics made it a defining hit of the 2010s and one of Perry’s most beloved and timeless tracks.
4. Roar
“Roar” is a bold declaration of empowerment and finding your voice. With its jungle-themed visuals and uplifting chorus, the song became an instant anthem for resilience. It marked a new era in Perry’s career, focused on personal strength and self-assertion.
5. California Gurls (feat. Snoop Dogg)
A summer smash celebrating West Coast vibes, “California Gurls” mixes bubblegum pop with Snoop Dogg’s laid-back verses. Its playful lyrics, candy-coated visuals, and beachy energy made it an iconic anthem for fun, freedom, and all things California.
6. Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)
Capturing the chaos and fun of a wild weekend, “Last Friday Night” is a party-pop classic. Its humorous storytelling and retro-inspired music video reflect youthful escapades and carefree vibes, making it a favorite for sing-alongs and nostalgic throwbacks.
7. Dark Horse (feat. Juicy J)
Blending trap beats with mystical themes, “Dark Horse” showcases a darker, edgier side of Perry. Featuring Juicy J, the song’s hypnotic rhythm and dramatic tone explore themes of power, seduction, and consequences in love. It’s one of her most unique sonic shifts.
8. E.T. (feat. Kanye West)
“E.T.” is a futuristic, spacey track that dives into themes of alien love and fascination with the unknown. Kanye West’s verses add grit to the track’s ethereal vibe. It’s a bold, experimental departure that still managed to captivate mainstream audiences.
9. Hot N Cold
This energetic track dives into the highs and lows of an unpredictable relationship. With its infectious chorus and witty lyrics, “Hot N Cold” became a pop radio staple, showcasing Perry’s playful yet relatable songwriting style and her early pop-rock sound.
10. Wide Awake
“Wide Awake” is a reflective ballad chronicling emotional growth and clarity after heartbreak. Its haunting production and vulnerable lyrics offer a glimpse into Perry’s introspective side. The song marks a mature shift in tone, emphasizing healing and the lessons learned from love.
To discover more top-performing artists, take a look at the 10 most popular Post Malone songs of all time.
Katy Perry’s Top 20 Songs
Continuing our journey through Katy Perry’s Top 20 Songs, here are tracks #11 to #20, each showcasing her versatility and unique artistry:
11. “Thinking of You”
A heartfelt ballad from her debut album, One of the Boys (2008), this song highlights Perry’s emotional depth as she reflects on past love and longing.
12. “Waking Up in Vegas”
This upbeat track from One of the Boys (2008) captures the wild and unpredictable adventures of a night out in Las Vegas, blending catchy hooks with a rebellious spirit.
13. “Unconditionally”
A powerful ballad from Prism (2013), it delves into the theme of accepting and loving someone without any reservations, showcasing Perry’s vocal range and sincerity.
14. “Never Really Over”
Released in 2019 as a standalone single, this electro-pop anthem explores the complexities of rekindled relationships and the lingering feelings that come with them.
15. “Harleys in Hawaii”
Inspired by a trip with fiancé Orlando Bloom, this 2019 track offers a sultry and laid-back vibe, vividly evoking romantic escapades in a tropical paradise.
16. “This Is How We Do”
From Prism (2013), this playful song celebrates the fun and carefree moments of youth, emphasizing partying and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
17. “By the Grace of God”
A deeply personal track from Prism (2013), Perry reflects on overcoming challenges and finding strength through faith and resilience.
18. “If We Ever Meet Again” (with Timbaland)
This 2010 collaboration with Timbaland blends pop and hip-hop elements, narrating the hope of reconnecting with a fleeting love interest.
19. “Who You Love” (with John Mayer)
A duet with John Mayer from 2013, the song explores the theme of loving someone despite external judgments, highlighting their real-life romantic relationship at the time.
20. “Electric”
Released in 2021 in collaboration with Pokémon’s 25th anniversary, this uplifting track encourages listeners to embrace their inner strength and potential.
These songs further illustrate Katy Perry’s ability to traverse various musical styles and themes, solidifying her status as a dynamic and influential figure in the pop music landscape.
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Conclusion: “I Kissed a Girl” Is The Most Popular Katy Perry Song
From the empowering spark of “Firework” to the dreamy charm of “Teenage Dream”, Katy Perry’s catalog is packed with unforgettable hits. But it all began with the bold and boundary-pushing “I Kissed a Girl”, which remains her most popular and culturally defining song to date.
Its explosive debut, catchy chorus, and fearless lyrics marked the arrival of a pop powerhouse. Whether you’re dancing to her playful tunes or belting out her ballads, Katy Perry’s music continues to shape the sound of pop.
FAQs
“I Kissed a Girl” is considered Katy Perry’s most popular song, as it launched her into mainstream success and became a cultural phenomenon in 2008.
Katy Perry has scored nine Billboard Hot 100 number-one hits, showcasing her consistent presence at the top of the pop music scene.
“Teenage Dream” includes the biggest cluster of hits, producing five number ones and solidifying her legacy as a pop hitmaker.
Her breakout single was “I Kissed a Girl”, which sparked global attention and topped charts shortly after its release in 2008.
Katy Perry continues to release music and perform, with her most recent work including the 2020 album “Smile” and collaborations like “Electric” in 2021.
