Not only do these records soundtrack the dance floor, but they fuel my life.
This year not only saw the return of live events, but it also saw artists release a slew of impressive records. It’s fair to say that producers used 2020 as a time to create, and their hard work is indeed recognized in 2021. Many of these records are used where they were meant to be heard—on the dance floor. As music lovers are able to once again reunite and bask in the unexplainable feeling of being at a show where everyone is connected, the hits of 2021 soundtrack the way. Not only do these records soundtrack the dance floor, but they fuel my life. From groovy house music to future bass, songs worthy of a film score, techno, soulful house, ominous bass, longing sounds and even both hopeful messages and sorrowful lyrics, my music life in 2021 proves diverse—which was much needed after I sought comfort in the familiar in 2020. These tracks offer something for whatever mood I’m in as well as whatever I’m doing—working remotely, working out, working on getting ready for a show and more. Here, I share 15 of my favorite songs from 2021. “Wind Tempos” “Wind Tempos” is truly a masterfully produced record, even deserving of being part of a movie score. The track takes listeners on a sonic journey with sounds of rain, enchanting piano, static synths and hypnotizing vocals. The record is inspired after a trip to Japan where Porter Robinson met Japanese pianist Masakatsu Takag, who gave him a disc of Japanese ambient music from the early 2000s. Indeed, “Wind Tempos” proves that Robinson is a genre-smashing artist. “All About You” Salute’s “All About You” boasts enchanting vocals, gently shaking synths and more, creating an emotive, longing and euphonious sound. The Manchester-based artist draws inspiration from a wide spectrum of club music, thus creating his distinct sound. His introduction to various styles of electronic music, such as grime and electro house, was sparked by him playing video games. “The Music Is Mine” Nicole Moudaber reminds listeners why she’s the queen of techno. Her signature hypnotic and smoldering sound is showcased in “The Music Is Mine.” The record comes from her two track EP, The Volume, which proves to be designed for dance floor domination through pounding basslines and spellbinding synths.
