The 100 Best Singles of 2008

5

"Lollipop"   BY LIL WAYNE

Wayne's first Number One hit is a tour de force — about selling out to get a Number One hit. It's also a tortured oral-sex metaphor. And impossibly catchy.

6

"Gamma Ray"   BY BECK

Go-go dancing at the end of the world: Beck turns the threat of melting ice caps into a giddy, shimmy-shake beach party.

7

"American Boy"   BY ESTELLE FEAT.   KANYE WEST

More proof that great R&B can help America improve its international reputation: Winsome U.K. singer Estelle crushes on U.S. B-boys and makes Kanye West actually seem charming.

8

"I'm Amazed"   BY MY MORNING JACKET

The mammoth Southern-rock anthem on Evil Urges where MMJ let it all hang out: Check the guitar solo that shoots out to the cheap seats and beyond.

• View List: 2008 Singles of the Year