Explore the definitive list of Lily Allen's 20 greatest songs, from her groundbreaking early hits to her most recent and anticipated tracks, celebrating her unique blend of wit, social commentary, and pop genius.
This article presents a ranked list of Lily Allen's 20 best songs, offering a comprehensive overview of her career and musical evolution. The selection spans her influential debut with tracks like the revenge-fueled 'Smile' and the charming 'LDN,' through to her more recent work and even anticipated releases from her conceptual 'West End Girl' album (such as 'Fruityloop,' 'Tennis,' and the shocking 'Pussy Palace'). The songs are lauded for their diverse lyrical themes, including sharp social commentary on fame and consumerism ('The Fear,' 'Everyone’s at It'), political intolerance ('Fuck You'), and the pressures faced by women ('22'). Allen also fearlessly explores personal relationships, from the glow of new love ('Who’d Have Known') to the raw pain of breakups ('Littlest Things,' 'Family Man') and confronting infidelity ('Madeline'). Her musical style is noted for its versatility, incorporating ska, trip-hop, synth-soul, electronic pop, and piano ballads, often paired with her signature candid, witty, and sometimes controversial lyrics. Highlights include the groundbreaking 'Not Fair' for its subject matter, the influential 'Friday Night' which rebooted a Specials classic, and 'Hard Out Here' for its surprising longevity. The list culminates with 'The Fear' at No. 1, recognized for its astute and timeless critique of celebrity culture and Allen's own self-awareness within it.
