The electronic dance music scene has evolved over the years, from its origins being as underground raves to now taking over the world one festival, club and playlist at that time. As such, there have been a wide variety of songs that have graced airwaves, but of those hundreds and thousands of tracks, there are some whose influence and standing have transcended time and boundaries. Let us take you on a journey into the unifying power of music, and how these top 10 best songs in EDM became the soundtrack to unforgettable moments.
10. ‘Innerbloom’ – RÜFÜS DU SOL
Released in 2016, ‘Innerbloom’ stands out in the RÜFÜS DU SOL catalog for its introspective and emotive style. The track is a soul-stirring journey punctuated by the tender plea, ‘If you want me, if you need me, I’m yours’. This lyric wraps listeners in a warm embrace, setting a tone that’s both inviting and deeply personal. Known for its expansive build-up and ethereal vibes, ‘Innerbloom’ offers a more meditative side of EDM, perfect for moments of deep connection and reflection at festivals, where the crowd and music become one in the same heartbeat.
9. ‘Titanium’ – David Guetta and Sia
David Guetta’s ‘Titanium’, featuring powerful vocals by Sia, released in 2011, is a compelling blend of emotional depth and electronic beats that stands as a testament to EDM’s crossover appeal. The lyrics, speaking to themes of resilience and inner strength, paired with Guetta’s masterful production, propelled this track to global success. ‘Titanium’ not only elevated the profiles of both artists but also became a rallying cry for listeners worldwide, finding its place in countless motivational playlists and media soundtracks.
8. ‘Mammoth’ – Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Moguai
‘Mammoth’ is more than just a track; it’s a monumental big room house anthem that was released in 2013 by the powerhouse trio Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Moguai. Known for its thundering bassline and memorable melody, this track became synonymous with the peak moments of large-scale EDM festivals, particularly Tomorrowland. It illustrates the impact of collaboration within the EDM community, bringing together distinct sounds to create a unified and unforgettable festival experience.
7. ‘Bangarang’ – Skrillex and Sirah
‘Bangarang’ released in 2011, showcases Skrillex’s innovative style and Sirah’s dynamic vocals, making it a defining piece of the dubstep genre. This track, with its aggressive synth lines and chopped-up samples, pushed dubstep into the mainstream and solidified Skrillex’s reputation as a pioneer of electronic music. ‘Bangarang’ continues to be a high-energy anthem, often featured in media and live performances, symbolizing the edgy and vibrant culture of electronic music.
6. ‘L’amour Toujours’ – Dzeko & Torres, Delaney James & Tiesto
A modern retake on Gigi D’Agostino’s classic, this remix combines good old melodies with contemporary EDM elements. Tiesto, along with rising stars Dzeko & Torres and Delaney James, created a bridge linking dance music’s cherished past with its vibrant present. This track has become a festival staple, captivating audiences with its spectacular beat and its ability to evoke the golden age of dance music.
5. ‘Animals’ – Martin Garrix
‘Animals’ by Martin Garrix is a track that millennials like myself, who started attending festivals in their early 20s, absolutely loved. Released in 2013 when Garrix was just 17 years old, it immediately became a festival anthem with its iconic riff and the infectious drop. The minimalistic yet powerful phrase, ‘We’re the f***ing animals’, captures the wild spirit of youth and celebration that defines the festival experience. Its raw energy and bold sound not only popularized the big room house genre but continue to make it a staple in playlists and stages worldwide, maintaining its impact years after its release.
4. ‘Better Off Alone’ – Alice Deejay
Released in 1999, this song quickly became a worldwide sensation with its memorable hook and simple, relatable lyrics. It was a cornerstone in establishing the Eurodance phenomenon, setting the template for the energy and spirit that many future EDM tracks would aspire to replicate. Its cultural imprint stretches across film and television, forever a token of late ’90s euphoria.
3. ‘Calling’ – Alesso and Sebastian Ingrosso
Released in 2011, . ‘Calling’ is a collaborative masterpiece between Alesso and Sebastian Ingrosso that quickly became a staple of electronic dance music festivals around the world. Known for its euphoric build-up and drop, the track perfectly captures the essence of progressive house with a melody that lifts spirits and ignites dance floors. As a significant anthem of its time, ‘. ‘Calling’ elevated Alesso’s career and re-affirmed Ingrosso‘s status as a seasoned EDM powerhouse, creating peak moments of energy and connection among crowds.
2. ‘Don’t You Worry Child’ – Swedish House Mafia
‘Don’t You Worry Child’ marks a poignant moment in music history, as it was released during the uncertain times of Swedish House Mafias disbandment in 2012. The song, featuring the reassuring lyrics ‘Don’t you worry, child. See, heaven’s got a plan for you’, offered fans a glimmer of hope amidst the sadness of their farewell. This track resonated deeply with fans who were unsure if the group would ever reunite. Its emotional depth and the promise of a divine plan gave it a euphoric lift, making it a beloved anthem at festivals and a symbol of both endings and potential new beginnings in the EDM scene.
1. ‘Levels’ – Avicii
At the top of this list, we have ‘Levels’ by Avicii. Released in 2011, ‘Levels’ became the defining song for many who had just begun their foray into this world. For me, it was the first electronic dance music song I ever heard and I was hooked. Its unmistakable melody, sampled from Etta James’s “Something’s Got a Hold on Me,” turned into an addicting best, propelling ‘Levels’ a masterpiece of progressive house that feels as fresh today as it did then.
As we celebrate these iconic tracks that have defined the past and present of EDM, let’s stay tuned for the next wave of groundbreaking anthems. The future of electronic dance music promises to bring fresh talents and innovative sounds, continuing to transform and unite us on dance floors around the world. Join the journey, keep dancing, and witness the evolution of a genre that never stops moving.
