What is EDM? Those on the periphery will tell you it stands for “electronic dance music.” An obvious assertion – yes – but you also have purists that’ll tell you deep house, techno, and anything retro, pop-driven, or dark wave – from synthpop to industrial – don’t fit within this spectrum.
As such, EDM has come to mean a mashup of mainstream house genres – think progressive, big room, future, and tropical, with a smattering of vocal-based deep house – along with trance, dubstep, and some hardstyle.
Additionally, you’ll probably also hear or read that EDM truly emerged sometime in the late 2000s, and anything before this period doesn’t fall within this scope.
So, thinking about what constitutes EDM, we’ve put together 20 of the best tracks you’ve got to hear – along with a few old-school influences. And be sure to dive into the extensive list of top EDM tracks from our fellow music aficionados right after.
Countdown of Our Top EDM Tracks
20. “Levels” – Avicii
Swedish house in the early 2010s was unstoppable. But, while Swedish House Mafia’s hits now give off blandly uplifting vibes that often rest on their vocal lines, Avicii’s “Levels” was a different beast.
Tim Bergling could craft the very definition of an earworm that transcended the track’s vocal aspect.
While “Levels” samples Etta James’ “Something’s Got a Hold on Me” halfway through, this element’s only secondary. Rather, Avicii’s ability to switch from on- to off-the-beat rhythms and piano-based melodies makes this one instantly recognizable.
19. “Sweet and Sour” – Mike Williams
Released through Musical Freedom, “Sweet and Sour” was initially thought to be a Tiesto single. Yet, the sounds – characterized by a chromatic melody and dissipating drop – introduced a new talent, Dutch DJ Mike Williams.
Williams has since gone onto become one of the definitive future bounce producers with uplifting, swinging, almost marching band-like melodies he initially crafts on piano.
18. “Toulouse” – Nicky Romero
Nicky Romero emerged during the producer prodigy phase in the early 2010s, buoyed partially by the viral, Anonymous-referencing video for “Toulouse.”
Romero’s proven the hype nearly a decade later, releasing tracks from pop-house to tech house, exploring his underground groove on side project Monocule, and managing Protocol Records and a radio show of the same name.
It all started in 2012 with “Toulouse,” an effortlessly mash-up-able track that hit like a firecracker yet simultaneously delivers a euphoric slow burn that showcases the producer’s knack for percussive and melodic lines.
17. “Wake Me Up” – Avicii
Avicii appears twice on this list for two reasons. He managed to vary his output in a relatively short period of time: Compare “My Feelings for You” and “Levels” with everything on his debut album True, and you’d think you were listening to an entirely different producer.
Back at Ultra 2013, “Wake Me Up” shocked listeners by the sheer fact Bergling mixed country-folk elements with progressive house – and the result far transcended the awkward irony of “Cotton Eye Joe,” the novelty mid-‘90s Eurodance offering from Rednex.
It felt earnest and fresh and ushered in a period of genre mashups that hasn’t quite let up.
16. “Ride on Time” – Black Box
Sampling disputes aside, “Ride on Time” represents the perfect confluence of retro to modern, nodding to the disco era, welcoming the uplifting, pop-heavy character of ‘90s Eurodance, and feeling strangely timeless among the lite-deep house groove that provided an alternative to bombastic progressive somewhere around 2015.
15. “Axis” – Pet Shop Boys
Purists will say the Pet Shop Boys aren’t EDM – they’re synthpop, its own separate genre.
Yet, off the heels of 2013’s ballad-heavy Elysium came Electric later that year, a dance-heavy, EDM-embracing release that opened with the dance floor-made “Axis,” which showcased Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe’s uncanny ability to always stay relevant no matter the decade.
14. “Tremble” – Vicetone
Symphonic EDM might get you thinking about something cheesy, like Falco’s “Rock Me Amadeus.” Vicetone’s “Tremble,” on the other hand, gets you envisioning an orchestra performing a dance music track through deep bass played off soprano string melodies.
13. “Freaks” – Timmy Trumpet
Conservatory-studied, jazz-originating Timmy Trumpet proved with “Freaks” that you don’t only need a keyboard and some software to make an EDM track. Here, the viral-going melody gets performed on a trumpet and transposed via synthesizer to the point the bass rattles.
12. “Right Here, Right Now” – Fatboy Slim
Many call electronic dance music disposable. The true measurement of a hit is how often it gets sampled or remixed. Fatboy Slim’s trippy, groovy, transporting-you-to-a-‘90s-rave track has proven its longevity in such a fashion – recognizable, worthy on its own, yet flexible for a multitude of iterations.
11. “Cool” – Le Youth
On the subject of remixes, Le Youth reworks Cassie’s “Me & U,” chopping up its breathy, R&B-lite vibe to deliver something hypnotically upbeat.
10. “Hideaway” – Kiesza
Before artists like Shane Codd started reviving the lighter, tropical mid-2010s deep house, a slew of European producers backed away from the drop-heavy structure of progressive and Big Room – Gorgon City, Duke Dumont, Clean Bandit, and Route 94, to name a few.
In hindsight, much of it felt like hipsters telling us what deep house should sound like while processing it through a pop filter.
“Hideaway” seems more earnest. Yes, the groovy beat and keyboards are there, but the track also delivers structure and form. It stays in your head – rather than quickly transform into another melody.
9. “Adagio for Strings” – Tiesto
These days, it’s easy to hate on Tiesto. Yet, “Adagio for Strings” shows that you can carefully, almost delicately and without irony, sample lesser-known classical music for the dance floor.
The result isn’t bombastic and, over 15 years ago, introduced mainstream listeners to the enthralling, deliberately repetitive beauty of trance music.
8. “Big Fun” – Inner City
The title says it all. While purists don’t seem to like grouping the old-school classics in with the progressive and future house hits of the past decade, “Big Fun” manages to appeal to all tastes – modern, nostalgic, and anyone just wanting to find their groove.
7. “Bunnydance” – Oliver Heldens
On the topic of “mainstream” deep house, you’ll have some saying Tchami championed its status, and others pointing to Oliver Heldens.
But, while Tchami’s church concept might seem like he’s taking himself too seriously, Heldens’ irreverence – almost deliberate – makes everyone feel the beat and takes the too-cool-for-this attitude out of modern-day, hipster-driven deep house.
6. “Boomerang” – Brooks x Martin Garrix
Brooks is that Dutch DJ who’s always about to break through but has yet to make an impact on the DJ Mag 100 listing. GRX is Martin Garrix attempting to do something melodic yet techy with a circular format that, true to the title, makes you want to listen to “Boomerang” again and again.
5. “Put Your Hands up for Detroit” – Fedde Le Grand
Electronic dance music spent the 2000s bubbling underground with robotic yet groovy anthems heavy on the percussive elements. The counterpart to Benny Benassi’s “Satisfaction” over that decade was Fedde Le Grand’s “Put Your Hands Up for Detroit.”
The track alludes to techno’s origins while delivering a winding banger that still sounds fresh today and highlights the producer’s full spectrum of talents.
Mainly, he can get you dancing even with just basic hits and transcends both deep and progressive house styles, uniting both mainstream and underground fans in the process.
4. “Strobe” – Deadmau5
“Strobe” is perfection at the intersection of trance and tech house – and perhaps Deadmau5’s strongest song to date.
“Strobe” proves that not every EDM track needs a drop – nor does it need to rely on the endless, pendulum-like groove and handclaps of the underground. Rather, “Strobe” exemplifies mastery of the slow build that grabs your attention and keeps you transfixed.
3. “Bangarang” – Skrillex
The Brits had been doing dubstep for a few years – itself growing out of grime and drum ‘n’ bass – before Skrillex got listeners on this side of the pond going “WTF?”
Although the emo guitarist turned producer has since shown his versatility through Jack U with Diplo and his more recent output, “Bangarang” delivers the slow, syrupy pace interrupted by cacophony and intentional unevenness that we still associate with American dubstep.
2. “Turn Me Up” – Benny Benassi
The obvious choice for Benny Benassi seems to be “Satisfaction,” which, truth be told, feels like a second-rate “Put Your Hands Up for Detroit” clone.
“Turn Me Up” – off his first full-length album, Pumphonia – reflects another, more ubiquitous side of the producer – the diva-belter track with late ‘00s grit. It brings the talent – there’s no need for a vocoder here – and displays a side of the Italian house powerhouse that disappeared somewhere in the early 2010s.
1. “I’m Not Alone” – Calvin Harris
On this side of the Atlantic, we associate Calvin Harris’s debut with his Rihanna collaboration, “We Found Love.” Prior to this massive introduction, he released two albums he fully produced and sang on, blending synthpop, trance, and house elements.
“I’m Not Alone” represents this early apex with soaring synths, a nearly drop-less structure, and a trance-like repetition that engages rather than lulls you into a hypnotic state.
Best EDM Tracks According to Music Aficionado’s
Best EDM Tracks of the 90s (1990 – 1999)
“Around The World” – Daft Punk
Around The World by Daft Punk is, in my opinion as a music producer & artist, the ultimate electronic dance track. This infectious masterpiece showcases the genius of Daft Punk, the French duo known for their innovation in the genre. The song’s brilliance lies in its hypnotic simplicity, with repetitive lyrics and a groovy beat that make it irresistible on the dance floor.
Daft Punk’s skill as DJs and producers is evident in their ability to create a track that blurs the boundaries between house, techno, and funk, and Around The World is a prime example of their pioneering work. One simply has to hear their captivating use of the vocoder that sings title track during the chorus.
Simple yet effectively groovy! It’s a timeless and futuristic dance classic that has captivated a wide and diverse audience, making it one of the greatest tracks in the history of electronic dance music.
– Spells and Curses | Artist
“Voodoo Ray” – A Guy Called Gerald
As someone deeply immersed in the Dance scene over the last 30 years, I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I heard Voodoo Ray by a guy called Gerald. It was a defining moment at a legendary warehouse party in Manchester where I heard the track played out of a huge sound system with 100’s of other loved-up party people. It sounded exciting and fresh, it will always hold a romantic place in my memory.
The song emerged in the late 80’s and had a huge lasting impact on the rave era, profoundly shaping 90’s electronic music. Songs like “You’ve Got the Love” by The Source and Candi Staton, ” Pacific State” by 808 State, and “Energy Flash ” by Joey Beltran may not have existed if it wasn’t for Voodoo Ray. Classed as acid house and featuring sampled vocals, electronic drum machines, and the Roland TR909, which is now classed as the defining instrument for the acid genre.
– Daniel Alford | Director | Transmission Samples
“Children” – Robert Miles
Children by Robert Miles was a total game-changer, Trance was already doing well in the UK, but this track really helped to propel Trance into the mainstream with that unmistakable, and brilliantly melodic piano riff. Even my mum was playing it on repeat.
Around that same period we saw amazing releases such as “Sandstorm” by Darude and ATB – “Till I Come”, I’m sure that guitar riff is being used in a charting track today. “Kevin and Perry Go Large” portrayed the popularity of Trance with a younger audience, exploring Dance music, Ibiza, and the club scene. Although the 90’s Trance production style has been somewhat left behind, the era has influenced pop Dance tracks to this day. Over the last few years, we’veseen tracks from Calvin Harris, Ellie Goulding, and Camelphat, all sporting that melodic Trance vibe.
– Daniel Alford | Director | Transmission Samples
“Sandstorm” – Darude
Sandstorm is a timeless classic in the trance genre. Known for its infectious melody, high-energy beats, and captivating synth work, the track has become a staple at electronic music festivals. Darude’s ability to craft an exhilarating and unforgettable musical experience is evident in every beat.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Breathe” – The Prodigy
Breathe is a pioneering track in the big beat genre. It’s characterized by its heavy beats, aggressive energy, and a fusion of electronic and rock elements. The Prodigy’s ability to create an electrifying sonic experience sets this track apart. It’s an embodiment of the high-intensity, genre-blurring nature of electronic music.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Insomnia” – Faithless
Insomnia is a track that embodies the very essence of classic electronic dance music. Released in 1995, it helped define the genre during the mid-’90s. What sets Insomnia apart is its remarkable fusion of Maxi Jazz’s poetic, thought-provoking vocals and the euphoric trance elements that build gradually, culminating in a dancefloor-filling anthem. The lyrics, particularly the refrain, I can’t get no sleep, became an enduring declaration for night owls and dance enthusiasts. The track’s unique ability to capture the restlessness and allure of the nightlife makes it a timeless masterpiece and a symbol of EDM’s golden era.
These electronic dance tracks, with their musical intricacy, emotional depth, and lasting appeal, represent the rich diversity and creativity within the EDM landscape. They continue to inspire and resonate with audiences, solidifying their places as timeless classics.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Silence” – Delerium (feat. Sarah McLachlan)
Delerium’s Silence is a transcendent blend of trance and ambient music. Released in 1997, the track features Sarah McLachlan’s ethereal vocals and a captivating melody that evokes a sense of serenity and transcendence. Silence is cherished for its ability to create an atmosphere of introspection, inner peace, and unity on the dancefloor, making it an enduring classic in the world of EDM.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
Best EDM Tracks of the Aughts (2000-2009)
Selecting the best electronic dance tracks is no small feat, as the genre boasts a wide range of styles and influences. Here’s a list of some of the best electronic dance tracks that have made a significant impact on the genre:
“One More Time” – Daft Punk
Daft Punk’s One More Time is a seminal track that captures the essence of the electronic music scene. With its infectious disco-inspired groove, vocoder-enhanced vocals, and anthemic quality, the song has become a legendary dancefloor anthem. It’s a celebration of music’s power to unite and elevate spirits, making it a timeless classic in the world of EDM.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Midnight City” – M83
M83’s Midnight City is a dreamy synth-pop gem that has made a significant impact in the indie electronic genre. What sets this track apart is its iconic saxophone riff that adds a layer of nostalgia and mystique. The song’s anthemic quality and ethereal atmosphere have made it a modern classic, perfect for late-night drives and dance parties alike.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Strobe” – Deadmau5
Strobe is an electronic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the progressive house genre. Its intricate melodies, mesmerizing build-ups, and lush soundscapes create a sonic journey. Deadmau5’s ability to build and release tension in the track is a testament to his production prowess. Strobe is not just a dance track; it’s a sonic experience that evokes deep emotions, making it a timeless favorite among EDM enthusiasts.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
Deadmau5 has always been an innovator, but ‘Strobe’ stands out even in his impressive discography. Its progressive build and emotional climax are the very essence of what electronic music can achieve.
– Jordan Lee | DJ & Producer
Best EDM Tracks of the Teens (2010 – 2019)
In the summer of 2014, I had the opportunity to attend one of the biggest electronic dance music festivals in Europe – Tomorrowland. It was a dream come true for me and I couldn’t wait to experience all the amazing tracks that I had been listening to on repeat. But among all the great tracks I heard, there were a few that stood out and left a lasting impression on me.
“Animals” – Martin Garrix
This was the breakout hit for then 17-year-old DJ, Martin Garrix. The catchy melody and infectious drop made this track an instant crowd favorite at festivals around the world. It’s safe to say this track will always have a special place in the hearts of EDM fans.
– Christian Miller | Italien Entdeckenn
“Faded” – Alan Walker
This track took the world by storm with its haunting melody and powerful lyrics. It quickly became a staple at festivals and clubs, captivating audiences with its emotional energy. Even after years since its release, this track still remains a fan favorite.
– Christian Miller | Italien Entdeckenn
“First Time” by Kygo ft. Ellie Goulding
This collaboration between two powerhouses in the electronic music scene was a match made in heaven. The dreamy tropical house sound combined with Ellie Goulding’s angelic vocals created a track that was perfect for both dancing and relaxing. It’s no surprise that this track was a hit in both the mainstream and EDM world.
– Christian Miller | Italien Entdeckenn
“Levels” by Avicii
This iconic track from the late Avicii needs no introduction. It’s been almost a decade since its release, but it still remains a must-play at any electronic music event. The uplifting melody and infectious beat never fail to get the crowd moving, making it a timeless classic.
– Christian Miller | Italien Entdeckenn
Levels is a feel-good anthem that encapsulates the essence of uplifting electronic dance music. Avicii’s catchy melody and positive energy have made it an enduring favorite. The track’s ability to lift spirits and create an atmosphere of celebration is a testament to its power in the EDM world.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Clarity” – Zedd ft. Foxes
The ethereal vocals combined with Zedd’s signature electro-house sound was a winning combination. It’s no surprise that this track still continues to make it to the top of many best electronic dance tracks lists. It’s a timeless classic that will always hold a special place in my heart.
– Christian Miller | Italien Entdeckenn
Clarity is a shining example of electro-house at its best. Zedd’s production skills, combined with Foxes’ emotive vocals, create a track that strikes a perfect balance between energy and emotion. The song’s uplifting melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a cherished favorite, both on the dancefloor and in personal playlists.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Hyperreal” – Flume feat. Kučka
Hyperreal is an experimental electronic track that showcases Flume’s innovative production style. The song’s unique sound design, intricate rhythms, and Kučka’s captivating vocals create an otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a standout in the genre, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional electronic dance music norms.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“In the Air” – Morgan Page, Sultan + Ned Shepard, BT, feat. Angela McCluskey
In the Air is a progressive house gem characterized by Angela McCluskey’s ethereal vocals and a danceable beat. The track’s euphoric vibes and dynamic composition make it a favorite for those seeking a perfect blend of melody and energy on the dance floor.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Titanium” – David Guetta feat. Sia
Titanium stands out in the electro-pop landscape with its powerful message and catchy chorus. Sia’s soaring vocals combined with David Guetta’s production skills create a track that’s both emotionally resonant and danceable. The song’s theme of resilience and inner strength has made it a source of inspiration for many.
– Michael Chien | CEO/Marketing Director | 101Karaoke
“Fade” – Alan Walker
Alan Walker’s ‘Fade’ was a game-changer. The ethereal vocals combined with the distinct melody made it an instant hit. It’s a track that defined the mid-2010s EDM scene and showcased Walker’s genius as a producer.
– Alexa Morgan \ Music Journalist \ AlexaMorganMusic.com
“Lean On” – Major Lazer & DJ Snake ft. MØ
This track was everywhere! The fusion of dancehall with electronic beats, coupled with MØ’s unique vocals, created a global phenomenon. Major Lazer and DJ Snake truly captured the spirit of the times.
– Riya Patel | Radio Host | Riya’s Radio Channel
“On & On” – Cartoon ft. Daniel Levi
A more underrated gem, but ‘On & On’ introduced many to the world of NCS (NoCopyrightSounds). Cartoon’s production, combined with Daniel Levi’s vocals, made for an unforgettable track that resonated with millions.
– Chris Turner | EDM Blogger | EDM Insights
The electronic dance music (EDM) scene has witnessed a tremendous evolution over the last decade. With the fusion of various genres, innovative soundscapes, and the rise of numerous talented artists, the 2014-2024 decade has been nothing short of spectacular for EDM enthusiasts.
– Vivek Attri | Business Owner | Silent News
“Scared to Be Lonely” – Martin Garrix & Dua Lipa
Garrix’s stellar production skills, combined with Dua Lipa’s powerful vocals, made this track a poignant exploration of love and loneliness. It’s both a dance anthem and a heartfelt ballad.
– Nina Gomez | Music Critic | NinaReviews.com
Best EDM Tracks of the 20s (2020 – 2023)
“House Arrest” – Sofi Tukker and Gorgon City
Best electronic dance song “House Arrest” by Sofi Tukker and Gorgon City: Electronic music doesn’t usually get credit for its lyrics or story telling- yet House Arrest by Sofi Tukker and Gorgon City (Ultra Records) nails it.
My favorite lyric:
“Louder now, they let you treat your sadness with a smile,
You can’t have what’s next ’til you hang with it for a while”
There are so many things right with the song House Arrest. The space in the track lets the vocals of Sophie Hawley-Weld cut through before the classic house groove kicks in. And improvisational jazz like scatting brings forth elements we don’t hear enough in dance music.
It’s lyrical, it’s tasty. Multiple hooks to draw the listener in… not only in the vocals, but the bass as well.
House arrest was released in 2020- smack dab in the midst of the pandemic. And while it captured a very real melancholy vibe felt across the nation at that time, it also has a hopeful tone to it. Music kept people going at a time that everything felt like it was falling apart. Sofi Tukker tapped into that sentiment beautifully.
Here is the music video, shot during the pandemic.
– Collette McLafferty | Singer, Topline/Songwriter and Author | Vocalizr
Ivan Yaskey is a Philly-born EDM and synthpop enthusiast and interviewer who recently relocated to beautiful Boston, MA.