28 Best Songs to Start a DJ Set: The Ultimate Playlist

Launching a DJ set requires more than just technical skill; it demands a keen understanding of musical dynamics and audience engagement. The right opening track can set the tone for the entire night, building anticipation and creating an atmosphere that keeps the crowd energized. This list isn't just about compiling popular songs; it's about showcasing the power of a well-chosen opener—the kind of track that seamlessly blends infectious energy with irresistible grooves. Think about songs that effortlessly transition from a relaxed vibe into something more upbeat, a musical journey designed to captivate. We've curated a selection that highlights this masterful blend, incorporating a range of styles to demonstrate how a captivating opening can lay the foundation for a truly unforgettable DJ set. This carefully crafted sequence explores the evolution of popular music, offering a perfect blend of classic and contemporary hits—a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting.

From feel-good pop anthems that instantly get bodies moving to irresistible funk that demands you get down, this collection reflects the incredible diversity within popular music. We've included tracks that epitomize the power of a great hook, tunes that are equally at home in a stadium or a small, intimate club. These songs aren't just crowd-pleasers; they're carefully selected to demonstrate the art of transitioning between different energies and tempos, providing a blueprint for crafting a compelling and dynamic DJ experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast, this list offers invaluable insight into the art of crafting the perfect DJ set. Discover the magic of a perfectly curated playlist, one that embodies the spirit of unforgettable nights and musical innovation.

  • Shape of You
    1

    Shape of You

    Ed Sheeran

    2017

    ÷ (Deluxe)

  • Uptown Funk
    2

    Uptown Funk

    Mark Ronson,Bruno Mars

    2014

    Uptown Special

  • Sugar
    3

    Sugar

    Maroon 5

    2014

    V

  • Party Rock Anthem
    4

    Party Rock Anthem

    LMFAO

    2011

  • Wake Me Up
    5

    Wake Me Up

    Avicii

    2013

    True

  • Titanium
    6

    Titanium

    David Guetta,Sia

    2011

    Nothing but the Beat 2.0

  • CAN'T STOP THE FEELING!
    7

    CAN'T STOP THE FEELING!

    Justin Timberlake

    2016

    TROLLS (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

  • Love Yourself
    8

    Love Yourself

    Justin Bieber

    2015

    Purpose (Deluxe)

  • Firework
    9

    Firework

    Katy Perry

    2010

    Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection

  • Happy
    10

    Happy

    Pharrell Williams

    2013

    G I R L

  • Umbrella
    11

    Umbrella

    JAY-Z,Rihanna

    2007

    Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded

  • Don't You Worry Child
    12

    Don't You Worry Child

    Swedish House Mafia,John Martin

    2012

  • Levitating
    13

    Levitating

    Dua Lipa

    2020

    Future Nostalgia

  • Can't Touch This
    14

    Can't Touch This

    MC Hammer

    1990

  • Blinding Lights
    15

    Blinding Lights

    The Weeknd

    2019

    After Hours

  • Crazy in Love
    16

    Crazy in Love

    Beyoncé,JAY-Z

    2003

  • Get Lucky
    17

    Get Lucky

    Pharrell Williams,Daft Punk

    2013

  • I Gotta Feeling
    18

    I Gotta Feeling

    Black Eyed Peas

    2009

    THE E.N.D. (THE ENERGY NEVER DIES)

  • Levels
    19

    Levels

    Avicii

    2011

    True

  • Just Dance
    20

    Just Dance

    Lady Gaga,Colby O'Donis

    2008

    The Fame

  • Clarity
    21

    Clarity

    Zedd,Foxes

    2013

    Clarity

  • Don't Stop Believin'
    22

    Don't Stop Believin'

    Journey

    1981

    Escape (2022 Remaster)

  • Electric Feel
    23

    Electric Feel

    MGMT

    2007

    Oracular Spectacular

  • Danza Kuduro
    24

    Danza Kuduro

    Don Omar,Lucenzo

    2010

    Meet The Orphans

  • Spectrum
    25

    Spectrum

    Zedd,Matthew Koma

    2012

  • Lady Science
    26

    Lady Science

    Soul Capsule

    2019

  • Silent Shout
    27

    Silent Shout

    The Knife

    2006

  • Parlay
    28

    Parlay

    Galcher Lustwerk

    2018