Throwback Setlists: 2000s Songs That Still Get Guests Singing Along
If you perform live—whether at weddings, bars, corporate gigs, or intimate acoustic shows—you already know the secret weapon of any great setlist: nostalgia. And nothing hits quite like the 2000s. It was the decade of indie bands taking over the charts, pop queens ruling MTV, and emotional ballads that defined entire friendships.
These songs didn’t just top the charts—they became the soundtrack to people’s lives. That’s why they still ignite a crowd today.
Here’s a curated list of 2000s songs that guarantee a singalong, complete with insights to help performers get the most out of each track.
1. “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers
Why we still love it:
This indie-rock anthem became a cultural phenomenon. Its repetitive, soaring melody makes it impossible not to shout along to, and it carries that pure “coming-of-age movie” energy.
Performer angle:
Great early-to-mid set track when you want to lift the room. Works amazingly with band backing or stripped acoustic—and the steady build leaves space for crowd participation.
Setlist pairing:
Follows well after mellow indie tunes like “Use Somebody” and leads nicely into upbeat pop tracks such as “Hey Ya!”
2. “I’m Yours” – Jason Mraz
Why we still love it:
This breezy acoustic hit captured the carefree optimism of the late 2000s. Light, easy, and instantly recognisable, it brings a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere.
Performer angle:
Ideal for warm-ups and early-set moments. Perfect for singers who want to showcase vocal smoothness rather than power. Also great for singalongs because the chorus is simple and repetitive.
Setlist pairing:
Pairs beautifully with chilled tracks like “A Thousand Miles” or an acoustic version of “Umbrella.”
3. “Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
Why we still love it:
This absolute juggernaut of a pop track defined the 2000s. The horn riff alone is iconic, and the energy is unmatched.
Performer angle:
A brilliant moment to show confidence and stage presence. Even acoustic or piano versions carry huge energy, and the chorus invites the crowd to join instantly.
Setlist pairing:
Use it to transition from mid-energy to high-energy songs. Pairs well after “Hey Ya!” or before any modern pop banger.
4. “Use Somebody” – Kings of Leon
Why we still love it:
Emotional, epic, and heartfelt, this track became one of the decade’s biggest anthems. It’s a slow burn that erupts into a huge chorus.
Performer angle:
Perfect for belters. You can strip it back on piano or guitar for a more intimate vibe or lean into its power for a big mid-set moment.
Setlist pairing:
Great before “Mr. Brightside” or after a softer number like “I’m Yours.”
5. “Umbrella” – Rihanna
Why we still love it:
A massive pop moment with a hook everyone remembers. The melody is simple but striking, making it a crowd favourite.
Performer angle:
Try performing a slowed, emotional piano version for a fresh take that still gets a great reaction. It’s perfect for vocalists who like modern R&B phrasing.
Setlist pairing:
Place between mellow pop moments like “A Thousand Miles” or follow it with something upbeat like “Hips Don’t Lie.”
6. “Hey Ya!” – OutKast
Why we still love it:
It’s quirky, energetic, and universally recognisable. This track brings pure joy and nostalgia in equal measure.
Performer angle:
Amazing as a mid-to-late set hype track. Even with acoustic backing, the rhythm carries the crowd effortlessly. Great for performers who want to loosen everyone up.
Setlist pairing:
Works well after slower emotional songs—“shake it like a Polaroid picture” is the energy shift every set needs.
7. “Hips Don’t Lie” – Shakira
Why we still love it:
This was a global moment. Infectious rhythms, undeniable groove, and a melody that lives rent-free in everyone’s head.
Performer angle:
Perfect for performers who love movement or crowd interaction. Even a simplified version works because the melody is so iconic.
Setlist pairing:
Follow with “Crazy in Love” to maintain energy or precede a ballad to let the crowd settle.
8. “A Thousand Miles” – Vanessa Carlton
Why we still love it:
The piano riff that defined the decade—emotional, nostalgic, and instantly recognisable from the first three seconds.
Performer angle:
A brilliant early-set track to ease people in. Great for showcasing vocal tone and storytelling. Works with piano or a stripped acoustic arrangement.
Setlist pairing:
Pairs beautifully with “I’m Yours,” “Umbrella,” or any soft-pop moment.
9. “Since U Been Gone” – Kelly Clarkson
Why we still love it:
A pop-rock powerhouse. Massive chorus, emotional lyrics, and full cathartic release—every millennial knows this one.
Performer angle:
A showstopper. Belters will love it, and the audience goes wild when the chorus hits. Perfect late-set or encore.
Setlist pairing:
Follow with “Mr. Brightside” for a rock-pop one-two punch.
10. “Teenage Dirtbag” – Wheatus
Why we still love it:
Nostalgic, cheeky, and angsty in the most lovable way. A certified crowd singalong, especially the falsetto chorus.
Performer angle:
Fun for performers who like to lean into character. Works great with acoustic backing and gets a guaranteed reaction every time.
Setlist pairing:
Perfect early or mid-set. After “I’m Yours” or before “Mr. Brightside” works beautifully.
Building the Perfect 2000s Throwback Set
Use these songs to control the journey of your performance:
Start slow + nostalgic
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A Thousand Miles
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I’m Yours
Warm the crowd with mid-energy singalongs
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Use Somebody
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Teenage Dirtbag
Push into iconic anthems
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Mr. Brightside
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Since U Been Gone
Close with the high-energy fire-starters
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Crazy in Love
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Hey Ya!
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Hips Don’t Lie
These songs still deliver because they remind people of simpler times—school trips, first loves, old iPod playlists, and very dramatic MSN Messenger statuses. For performers, they’re the perfect mix of emotional range, recognisability, and pure fun.
