It’s that time of the year when everyone’s weighing in on the best of 2009. From Time magazine to producer Tricky Stewart and now The New York Times, whose two music critics have each picked their 10 favorite songs of the year, including a few surprise selections.
John Pareles’ Top Songs of 2009
Rihanna – “Russian Roulette”
The Very Best – “Kamphopo”
Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys – “Empire State of Mind”
The Dead Weather – “Treat Me Like Your Mother”
BLK JKS – “Molalatladi”
Annie – “I Don’t Like Your Band”
Wild Beasts – “Hooting & Howling”
Kings of Leon – “Use Somebody”
Lady Gaga – “Paparazzi”
Ben Ratliff’s Top Songs of 2009
Micachu – “Calculator”
The-Dream – “Rockin’ That ****”
Richgirl – “He Ain’t Wit Me Now (Tho)”
Bannakumbi – “Un Nuevo DÃa”
Liturgy – “Pagan Dawn”
YOB – “Burning the Altar”
Shrinebuilder – “Pyramid of the Moon”
Tyondai Braxton – “Platinum Rows”
Coati Mundi – “No More Blues”
Electrik Red – “So Good”