Writing a comic charity song about sick children could've been a disastrous exercise, but the Conchords (and some talented friends) came up with an absolute winner, combining the uncensored lyrical genius of kids with the talents of 21 local vocalists for a delightfully bonkers No 1 song. Guaranteed laughs and warm fuzzies.
Thrift Shop - Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
With its cheeky sentiment, a fruity brassy loop that was one of the catchiest pop hooks of the year, and sing-along chorus with a delicious bit of cussing, it's no wonder this song has sat at No 1 on the singles chart for six consecutive weeks.
Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen
The highest selling single in New Zealand this year goes to this sugar-coated Canadian pop starlet. It has to be said though, at 27 - almost a cougar in teen pop terms - where does she get off singing lyrics like, "All the other boys, try to chase me, but here's my number, call me maybe"?
We Are Young - Fun featuring Janelle Monae
They were the breakthrough band of the year, going from relative East Coast obscurity, to six Grammy nominations (and a show at Vector Arena next year), and this grand, theatrical, indie anthem with massive hip-hop beats is the one that did it, along with second single Some Nights.
- TimeOut
