The Best UK Pop Singles of 2012

1. Florence and the Machine - Spectrum

Whether the luminescent original version, or the elegantly amped-up Calvin Harris remix, "Spectrum" was the year's most addictive hit of pop euphoria.

2. Girls Aloud - Beautiful Cause You Love Me
Truly enough to make the words "big ballad" seem utterly insufficient.

3. Ellie Goulding - Anything Could Happen

It may seem a bewitchingly pretty trifle on first listen, but further investigations reveal intriguing layers of retrospection and reflection.

4. Ed Sheeran - Drunk
It has the benefit of not only being one of the year's most heart-twisting ballads, but also possessing one of the greatest music videos ever.

5. Leona Lewis ft. Childish Gambino - Trouble

Exquisitely chilling.

6. Robbie Williams - Candy
A winning, seemingly effortless, coy and charming comeback.

7. Cheryl Cole - Call My Name

There are better songs on A Million Lights (such as the title track and "Last One Standing"); however, this was last summer's most irresistible anthem.

8. Alexandra Burke - Elephant

With its unusual structure and sharp, sassy lyrics, this song really didn't get its due on the charts.

9. Olly Murs ft. Flo-Rida - Troublemaker
Just ridiculously catchy. I know it's a controversial statement, but this might actually be the catchiest Olly Murs song ever.

10. The Saturdays - 30 Days (JRMX Radio Remix)
I love the extra panache lent to the already-delightful Sats song by this charismatic remix.

11. Queen of Hearts - Tears in the Rain

The edge has to go to the original version for its effervescently haunting feel; yet, the Damn You Mongolians remix intrigues with its subtle breakdown.