When Pharrell released his song "Happy" back in 2013 as the first and only single from the Despicable Me soundtrack (and the lead single from his 2014 solo album Girl), it was inescapable. A family-friendly hit, the song's upbeat production and optimistic lyrics made it a perfect cover song, while its 24-hour music video spawned countless tribute videos.
So, it shouldn't come as a surprise that one of — if not the — biggest solo hits Pharrell has ever released was the most-played song of the 2010s. Music listening company PPL (Phonographic Performance Ltd) compiled a list of the 40 most-played songs of the decade, with "Happy" topping it. The songs were chosen based on what was played most on UK TV and radio over the last 10 years. Since most of the tracks on the list were hits throughout the world, it's likely that they'll also appear on lists from other countires, particularly "Happy."
The list can be viewed below. Last year, Pharrell spoke with Rick Rubin about his "Blurred Lines" lawsuit and how it didn't change the way he produces music.
"This is the only way I know how to make it," Pharrell said. "…This was just like a freak situation that was meant to humble me. To teach me a lesson. And I think that lesson was just be very clear and what my intentions are and to just not assume that everybody understands…"
