The turn of the millennium only seems like yesterday, with the new millennium welcoming a host of new car models. Some of the most impressive include the Ferrari Enzo, Cadillac CTS, Bugatti Veyron and Ford GT. Likewise, the music industry exploded with a number of successful singers like Rihanna, Chris Brown, 50 Cent and Kanye West. It was a decade of chart-toppers and technological advances.
Rev-Up Radio is a series that combines cars and music to create a sense of nostalgia for a certain time period. It includes a list of songs that can be played when you’re stuck in traffic and want to brighten up the day.
Umbrella by Rihanna
With a memorable ‘’ella ‘ella’ chorus, Umbrella became an instant hit for Rihanna. It was one of the most played songs of the 2000s, as well as it staying at the top of the UK Singles Chart for 10 weeks. This makes it the longest running number one for any single of the decade. The song has R&B and rock influences that make it even catchier.
Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
Planning a romantic getaway for two? Chasing Cars is the perfect song to play in the car when you’re driving to your destination. It’s a powerful ballad that talks about love being all-consuming, like a dog chasing cars. A memorable part of the track is how it builds to a crescendo and leaves an impression long after the music has finished.
Lose Yourself by Eminem
A 2000s playlist wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the impact Eminem had on music. As the best-selling artist of the noughties, Eminem has released many classics, and Lose Yourself is one of them. It’s the kind of anthem that motivates you to be successful, whether you’re buying your first classic car, or going after a dream job. The wordplay on the track is impressive and Eminem proves why he’s one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Hips Don’t Lie by Shakira
Hips Don’t Lie is a great song for the summer because of its catchy rhythm and captivating chorus. It was the best-selling song of the last decade, making it an essential part of music history. Shakira’s strong vocals are part of what makes the song a big hit.
In Da Club by 50 Cent
2003 was the year 50 Cent exploded onto the scene with his debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin.’ In Da Club was the lead single and propelled 50 Cent to mainstream success. From the infectious beat, to the thumping chorus, the song is ideal for blasting out the car window.
Gold Digger by Kanye West
Gold Digger is one of Kanye West’s biggest hits, with 1970s style synthesizers blaring in the background. The bouncy beat makes the song worth listening to when you’re in a partying kind of mood. Jamie Foxx is also featured on the track at the beginning, singing an interpolation of Ray Charles’ I Got A Woman.