Top 10 Most Popular Songs by Asian American Artists

Asian Americans have always been part of the soundtrack of America, but too often their role in shaping pop, R&B, hip hop, and even rock doesn’t get the shine it deserves. From record-breaking ballads to viral anthems, these songs prove that Asian American artists aren’t just participating in music culture, they’re helping define it.

Let’s dive into ten of the biggest, most iconic songs by Asian American artists, and why each one matters, in no particular order.

“drivers license” by Olivia Rodrigo

Remember when Olivia Rodrigo’s “drivers license” dropped in 2021 and suddenly the whole internet was crying in their cars? Debuting at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, the earworm remained at the top spot for eight weeks straight, making a Filipino American teen singer-songwriter one of the biggest pop stars in the world overnight. Rodrigo didn’t just get a driver’s license, she drove straight into pop history.

“Crush” by David Archuleta

American Idol runner-up and Filipino American singer David Archuleta proved he was more than just a second-place talent with “Crush”, his 2008 single that debuted at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. A rare feat at the time, the sweet song about blossoming love became an instant teen-pop classic.

“Leave the Door Open” by Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak)

When Bruno Mars, who is of Filipino descent, teamed up with Anderson .Paak, who is Black and Korean, as Silk Sonic, the result was pure magic. “Leave the Door Open” was silky, retro, and irresistible, topping the Billboard Hot 100 in 2021 and sweeping the Grammys.

“Like a G6” by Far East Movement

If you were alive in early aughts, you definitely heard “Like a G6” blasting at every party. This banger that not only rose all the way to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, it made the Far East Movement the first Asian American group to have ever done it. Pass the Crystal, please.

“My Love Mine All Mine” by Mitski

Japanese American Mitski has long been an indie darling, but in 2023 she crossed over in a major way with “My Love Mine All Mine”. The track went viral on TikTok and cracked the Billboard Hot 100’s top 40, her first time ever.

“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars basically owned the 2010s, and it all started with “Just the Way You Are.” This tenderest of ballads shot to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2010 and became not only a multi-platinum hit, but a staple on wedding playlists the world over.

“Do You Miss Me?” by Jocelyn Enriquez

In 1997, Filipino American artist Jocelyn Enriquez delivered one of the great freestyle hits of the 1990s with “Do You Miss Me?”. It climbed all the way up to #11 on the Hot 100 and lit up dance floors and raves everywhere. Also, the 90’s were just better. Go on, fight me. I dare you.

“Best Friend” by Saweetie ft. Doja Cat

Dropping in 2020 and peaking at #14 on the Billboard Hot 100, Saweetie’s “Best Friend” wasn’t just a track, it was the ultimate anthem for hype-girl friendships and self-love, while also spotlighting Saweetie’s Filipino, Chinese, and Black roots in the hip hop mainstream.

“Cough Syrup” by Young the Giant

Rock music doesn’t usually get linked with Asian American voices, but Young the Giant changed that. Their breakout single “Cough Syrup”, fronted by Indian American singer Sameer Gadhia, hit #3 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in 2011.

“Every Kind of Way” by H.E.R.

H.E.R. has racked up stacks of Grammy for her soulful, genre-bending R&B, and she happens to be part Filipino as well as African American to boot. “Every Kind of Way” shows the vulnerability and artistry that have made her a powerhouse in today’s music scene.

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Yes, music is totally subjective. What we put on our mixtapes might not be what you put on yours. Let us know if we missed a song by an Asian American artist. Let us know if you think some of these don't belong. We're excited to add to our playlist or make a totally new one, so bring it.