We here at MTV News are a pretty diverse bunch, so the views expressed by some in our more official-type year-end lists (like James Montgomery's Top 25 Albums and Best Songs, and the Mixtape Monday Awards) are not necessarily shared by the rest of the newsroom. So, this week we gave everyone else a chance to chime in with their own lists and explain (or defend) their choices. You'll find the staff faves of 2008 all together here.
By Kristin Grimmett, Associate Producer
10. "Yes We Can," Will.I.Am: Because, uh, yes we did.
9. "Rehab," Rihanna: I first heard this song in '07, but when she released the video in '08, adding Justin Timberlake to the track, this became my jam!
8. "A Milli," Lil Wayne: I've never been a fan of Lil Wayne, in fact, I'm still not. Yet when this song comes on in the club ... "I'm a young money milli-onaire/ Tougher than Ni-gerian hair ..."
7. "Bust Your Windows," Jazmine Sullivan: Because even though it's totally illegal and you probably shouldn't do it to your cheating boyfriend, he definitely deserves it. And for at least one day (while he's getting that window fixed), he won't be able to pick up his side piece for a date.
6. "I Kissed a Girl," Katy Perry: I think it's safe to say this was the song of the summer. I am usually an R&B/hip-hop girl, but even I got into this song and was not afraid to ride around blaring it and sing along.
5. "My President Is Black," Young Jeezy, featuring a bunch of people: I honestly don't believe this needs more of an explanation other than: "My President is black, my lambo's blue and I'll be g--damned if my rims ain't too." Who doesn't want to ride through their 'hood playing this song?! If they don't, they aren't a friend of mine!
4. "Love Lockdown," Kanye West: Beat is dope, lyrics are intense and Kanye is singing. This man does it all ... with a synthesizer.
3. "Single Ladies," Beyoncé: This is an obvious choice. When this song comes on at the club, all the men go to the restroom and the ladies have the dance floor to themselves. LOVE IT!
2. "History," Jay-Z: Everyone is searching for victory this year (even Jay-Z, if you believe the song). But even with a country in a recession, we still managed to make history by electing the first biracial president.
1. "Touch My Body," Mariah Carey: Because she was, is and will always be THE BEST.
What were your favorites this year? Share your lists below!
Comments