What were you doing in 2008? Believe it or not, those late-noughties memories are now a decade behind. Since we're still getting used to writing "2018" when we're filling out forms, we thought we'd put together this playlist of songs that will turn 10 years old this year. And because we know the best jamming sessions happen during car rides, we've chosen these hits to fit a wide variety of roadtrip scenarios.
Listen, enjoy, and prepare to feel old.
Song: "Beautiful"
Artist: Akon ft. Colby O'Donis and Kardinal Offishall
Perfect for: When you're feeling romantic with your passenger.
Whether he's on stage or recording in a studio, Akon has a reputation for getting a bit lewd with his music. He's not exactly known for being a nuanced romantic. But this catchy song is pretty tame, and is basically a love letter to a woman's beauty set to party beats. Close enough?
Song: "Insomnia"
Artist: Craig David
Perfect for: When the road trip calls for an impromptu dance party.
If you were a party rat back in 2008 who couldn't miss a night at Embassy or a house party with Sober Club drinks, then you would've danced to this song more times than you can recall. Once more for old time's sake, then?
Song: "I'm Yours"
Artist: Jason Mraz
Perfect for: When you just want to cruise.
The fedora and acoustic guitar combo might be an overdone cliché by today's standards, but Jason Mraz's voice makes up for the cringe factor. This classic hit is perfect when you're on an open highway and all you want to do is cruise on a steady clip.
Song: "Disturbia"
Artist: Rihanna
Perfect for: When you want to overtake the car in front of you.
Or maybe cruising isn't your thing. You prefer to floor the pedal, you say? This song's fast rhythm should get in you in the mood. That is, unless its racy lyrics get you in the mood for something else.
Song: "You Belong With Me"
Artist: Taylor Swift
Perfect for: When the car wants to have a karaoke session.
Yup, it's the 'Old Taylor.' Long before she became a feuding, heartbreaking mega star, Ms. Swift was a doe-eyed country/pop singer with nary an enemy in the world. This innocent little song is the classic girl-next-door tale, and most of you should remember the lyrics.
Song: "Viva La Vida"
Artist: Coldplay
Perfect for: When you're driving in the dead of night.
Maybe your schedule ran late, or you're just one of those people who prefers to drive at night. Whatever the case, you need a song to match. The traffic-stopping band known as Coldplay has got you covered. Turn this one up and hear the percussion reverberate throughout your cabin, and you'll feel like a king lording over his kingdom.
Song: "Sex on Fire"
Artist: Kings of Leon
Perfect for: When you want to wake up the rest of the car.
Maybe you're feeling drowsy because everyone else in the car has dozed off. How rude. Don't worry, this Kings of Leon classic should remedy that. Make sure you sing the chorus at the top of your lungs for maximum effect.
Song: "Low"
Artist: Flo Rida
Perfect for: When you're trying to explain to someone what music in 2008 was like.
Road-trip conversations can vary depending on who you're with and how long you've been on the road. If you're with someone who doesn't remember what music sounded like back in '08, Flo Rida's debut single explains it perfectly (Technically, the song came out as a single in late 2007, but the album it was featured in was released in 2008 so we're including it here). Incomprehensible verses, gaudy fashion choices, rhymes about bling and money, T-Pain on Auto-Tune—this one has it all.
Song: "Time of My Life"
Artist: David Cook
Perfect for: When you're feeling nostalgic with old friends.
If, like me, you were still in the process of growing up in 2008, then you'll recall that feeling of wonder and curiosity whenever you thought about your future. At the same time, you were still engulfed in the fun and innocence of being young. This song will take you back to that time of school books, hanging out with your friends, and discovering what life has to offer.
This story originally appeared on Topgear.com.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Spot.ph editors.