37 Best College Party Songs

Welcome to the DJ’s Corner, where we dive deep into the world of music to help aspiring DJs create the ultimate soundtrack for unforgettable college parties. College is a time for making memories, forming friendships, and of course, enjoying some epic parties. As a DJ, you have the power to set the tone for the night and create an atmosphere that gets everyone moving, laughing, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

In today’s blog post, we’re going to share our handpicked selection of the best college party songs to help you become the go-to DJ on campus. From classic hits to modern chart-toppers, these tracks will get the dance floor packed and the party jumping. But more than just providing you with a list of songs, we’ll also give you insights into the artists behind the tunes, as well as a brief description of what makes each song a must-have in your party playlist.

So, whether you’re a seasoned DJ looking to refresh your setlist or a beginner trying to break into the scene, this post is for you. Stay tuned, grab your headphones, and let’s dive into the ultimate college party playlist!

These 37 songs span various genres and decades, providing a diverse playlist for any college party. They are sure to get people dancing, singing along, and having a great time.

1. “Yeah!” by Usher (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris)

A high-energy dance hit from Usher’s 2004 album “Confessions,” “Yeah!” features catchy hooks and verses from Lil Jon and Ludacris. Usher is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who rose to fame in the 1990s with his self-titled debut album.

2. “Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO (feat. Lauren Bennett & GoonRock)

A 2011 electronic dance-pop song, “Party Rock Anthem” features an infectious beat and an unforgettable chorus, perfect for any college party. LMFAO was an American electronic dance music duo consisting of Redfoo and SkyBlu, who gained fame with their hit singles and energetic performances.

3. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas

An upbeat, feel-good song from The Black Eyed Peas’ 2009 album “The E.N.D.,” “I Gotta Feeling” is sure to get any party started. The Black Eyed Peas is an American musical group known for their pop, hip-hop, and electronic music, featuring members will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo, and Fergie.

4. “Levels” by Avicii

A 2011 progressive house track, “Levels” is a staple at parties with its infectious melody and uplifting beat. Avicii, born Tim Bergling, was a Swedish DJ, record producer, and songwriter who achieved international fame with his innovative electronic music.

5. “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers

An indie rock classic from The Killers’ 2004 debut album “Hot Fuss,” “Mr. Brightside” has an energetic rhythm and infectious lyrics. The Killers is an American rock band formed in 2001, known for their blend of alternative rock, new wave, and post-punk revival.

6. “One Dance” by Drake (feat. WizKid & Kyla)

A 2016 dancehall and Afrobeat-infused track from Drake’s album “Views,” “One Dance” features catchy verses and a smooth chorus. Drake is a Canadian rapper, singer, and actor who gained fame with his versatile music, blending elements of hip-hop, R&B, and pop.

7. “No Hands” by Waka Flocka Flame (feat. Roscoe Dash & Wale)

A 2010 hip-hop hit, “No Hands” showcases energetic verses from Waka Flocka Flame, Roscoe Dash, and Wale over a bass-heavy beat. Waka Flocka Flame is an American rapper known for his energetic performances and catchy hooks, often blending elements of trap and southern hip-hop.

8. “Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis (feat. Ray Dalton)

A 2011 rap anthem from the duo’s album “The Heist,” “Can’t Hold Us” features an uplifting chorus from Ray Dalton and motivational lyrics. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis is an American hip-hop duo known for their independent success, tackling social issues and blending various music styles.

9. “In Da Club” by 50 Cent

A 2003 hip-hop hit from 50 Cent’s debut album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” “In Da Club” features a catchy beat and memorable lyrics.

10. “Shots” by LMFAO (feat. Lil Jon)

A 2009 electro-house party anthem, “Shots” is known for its repetitive, catchy hook and high-energy beat. LMFAO, as mentioned earlier, was an American electronic dance music duo consisting of Redfoo and SkyBlu due to large message size. See ‘output’ field for full text.

1. “Get Low” by Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz (feat. Ying Yang Twins)

A 2002 crunk classic from the album “Kings of Crunk,” “Get Low” features a memorable hook and energetic verses from the Ying Yang Twins. Lil Jon is an American rapper, producer, and DJ known for his distinctive voice and contributions to the crunk music genre.

2. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA

A 1976 disco-pop hit from the Swedish group’s album “Arrival,” “Dancing Queen” is an irresistible sing-along classic. ABBA is a Swedish pop group that rose to fame in the 1970s with their catchy melodies and distinctive harmonies.

3. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi

A 1986 rock anthem from Bon Jovi’s album “Slippery When Wet,” “Livin’ on a Prayer” is a timeless hit with an infectious chorus. Bon Jovi is an American rock band formed in 1983, known for their blend of hard rock, glam metal, and arena rock.

4. “Wonderwall” by Oasis

A 1995 Britpop hit from Oasis’ album “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?,” “Wonderwall” is an iconic sing-along track. Oasis was an English rock band formed in 1991, known for their rivalry with Blur and their influence on the Britpop movement.

5. “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond

A 1969 classic from Neil Diamond’s album “Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show,” “Sweet Caroline” has become an iconic sing-along favorite. Neil Diamond is an American singer-songwriter known for his extensive career and hits across various genres.

6. “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee

A 2004 reggaeton hit from Daddy Yankee’s album “Barrio Fino,” “Gasolina” helped popularize the genre with its catchy beat and memorable lyrics. Daddy Yankee is a Puerto Rican singer, rapper, and producer known as the “King of Reggaeton” for his contributions to the genre.

7. “Turn Down for What” by DJ Snake & Lil Jon

A 2013 electronic dance hit, “Turn Down for What” features an infectious beat and Lil Jon’s signature ad-libs. DJ Snake is a French DJ and record producer known for his collaborations with various artists and his unique fusion of electronic and hip-hop elements.

8. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast

A 2003 hit from OutKast’s double album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” “Hey Ya!” is a genre-blending track with an unforgettable chorus. OutKast is an American hip-hop duo consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi, known for their innovative music and influence on the hip-hop genre.

9. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

A 1974 southern rock classic from the album “Second Helping,” “Sweet Home Alabama” features catchy guitar riffs and a memorable chorus. Lynyrd Skynyrd is an American rock band known for their southern rock sound and iconic hits, such as “Free Bird.”

1. “Jump Around” by House of Pain

A 1992 hip-hop classic from House of Pain’s self-titled album, “Jump Around” is known for its energetic beat and catchy chorus. House of Pain was an American hip-hop group featuring members Everlast, DJ Lethal, and Danny Boy, best known for this hit single.

2. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show

A 2004 folk-country hit from Old Crow Medicine Show’s album “O.C.M.S.,” “Wagon Wheel” is a feel-good sing-along with a catchy melody. Old Crow Medicine Show is an American string band known for their old-time country and folk sound.

3. “Hot in Herre” by Nelly

A 2002 hip-hop hit from Nelly’s album “Nellyville,” “Hot in Herre” features a catchy hook and an infectious beat produced by The Neptunes. Nelly is an American rapper, singer, and actor known for his distinctive vocal style and numerous hit singles.

4. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey

A 1981 rock anthem from Journey’s album “Escape,” “Don’t Stop Believin’” has become a timeless classic and popular sing-along track. Journey is an American rock band formed in 1973, known for their blend of progressive rock, hard rock, and arena rock.

5. “We Found Love” by Rihanna (feat. Calvin Harris)

A 2011 electro-house hit from Rihanna’s album “Talk That Talk,” “We Found Love” features an uplifting beat and memorable vocals. Rihanna is a Barbadian singer, actress, and entrepreneur known for her versatile music style and numerous chart-topping singles.

6. “Ignition (Remix)” by R. Kelly

A 2002 R&B hit from R. Kelly’s album “Chocolate Factory,” “Ignition (Remix)” features a catchy melody and smooth vocals. R. Kelly is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his contributions to R&B and hip-hop, as well as his controversial personal life.

7. “Pursuit of Happiness” by Kid Cudi (feat. MGMT & Ratatat)

A 2009 alternative hip-hop hit from Kid Cudi’s album “Man on the Moon: The End of Day,” “Pursuit of Happiness” features introspective lyrics and a memorable hook. Kid Cudi is an American rapper, singer, and actor known for his unique music style, blending elements of hip-hop, rock, and electronic music.

8. “Come on Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners

A 1982 new wave hit from Dexys Midnight Runners’ album “Too-Rye-Ay,” “Come on Eileen” is an energetic and catchy sing-along track. Dexys Midnight Runners is a British band formed in 1978, known for their mix of new wave, soul, and Celtic folk music.

9. “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba

A 1997 alternative rock hit from Chumbawamba’s album “Tubthumper,” “Tubthumping” features an infectious chorus and a memorable melody. Chumbawamba was a British band formed in 1982, known for their eclectic music style, blending elements of punk rock, pop, and folk.

10. “Sandstorm” by Darude

A 1999 electronic dance instrumental from Darude’s album “Before the Storm,” “Sandstorm” is known for its iconic melody. Darude is a Finnish DJ and record producer known for his contributions to the trance and electronic dance music genres.

1. “Mo Bamba” by Sheck Wes

A 2018 trap hit from Sheck Wes’ album “Mudboy,” “Mo Bamba” features a hard-hitting beat and an infectious hook that gets the crowd going. Sheck Wes is an American rapper and songwriter known for his energetic music style and his breakout single “Mo Bamba.”

2. “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne

A 2003 pop-rock hit from Fountains of Wayne’s album “Welcome Interstate Managers,” “Stacy’s Mom” is a catchy and humorous sing-along song. Fountains of Wayne was an American rock band formed in 1995, known for their power-pop sound and clever lyrics.

3. “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira (feat. Wyclef Jean)

A 2006 Latin pop hit from Shakira’s album “Oral Fixation, Vol. 2,” “Hips Don’t Lie” features an irresistible beat and memorable vocals. Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer known for her fusion of pop, rock, and Latin music styles.

4. “I Love It” by Icona Pop (feat. Charli XCX)

A 2012 electropop hit from Icona Pop’s album “This Is… Icona Pop,” “I Love It” features an energetic beat and an anthemic chorus. Icona Pop is a Swedish electropop duo consisting of Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo, known for their catchy and upbeat music.

5. “Teach Me How to Dougie” by Cali Swag District

A 2010 hip-hop hit from Cali Swag District’s album “The Kickback,” “Teach Me How to Dougie” features a catchy hook and an infectious beat. Cali Swag District was an American hip-hop group known for popularizing the “Dougie” dance with this hit single.

6. “It’s Tricky” by Run-DMC

A 1986 hip-hop hit from Run-DMC’s album “Raising Hell,” “It’s Tricky” features clever lyrics and a catchy beat that gets the party moving. Run-DMC was an American hip-hop group consisting of members Run, DMC, and Jam Master Jay, known for their pioneering influence on the genre.

7. “Low” by Flo Rida (feat. T-Pain)

A 2007 hip-hop hit from Flo Rida’s album “Mail on Sunday,” “Low” features an infectious hook by T-Pain and an energetic beat. Flo Rida is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his catchy hooks and chart-topping singles.

8. “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé (feat. Jay-Z)

A 2003 R&B hit from Beyoncé’s debut solo album “Dangerously in Love,” “Crazy in Love” features a catchy chorus and a memorable verse from Jay-Z. Beyoncé is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her powerful vocals and influential career, both as a solo artist and as a member of Destiny’s Child.

9. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes

A 2003 rock hit from The White Stripes’ album “Elephant,” “Seven Nation Army” features an iconic guitar riff and memorable lyrics. The White Stripes was an American rock duo consisting of Jack White and Meg White, known for their minimalist approach to garage rock and blues.

1. “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan

A 1995 R&B hit from Montell Jordan’s debut album “This Is How We Do It,” the song features a smooth beat and catchy lyrics that make it a party favorite. Montell Jordan is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his contributions to R&B and hip-hop in the 1990s.

2. “Lose Yourself” by Eminem

A 2002 hip-hop hit from the soundtrack of the movie “8 Mile,” “Lose Yourself” showcases Eminem’s powerful lyrics and storytelling, set to an iconic beat. Eminem, born Marshall Mathers, is an American rapper, songwriter, and actor known for his controversial lyrics and influence on the hip-hop genre.

3. “California Love” by 2Pac (feat. Dr. Dre & Roger Troutman)

A 1995 hip-hop classic from 2Pac’s album “All Eyez on Me,” “California Love” features an unforgettable beat and verses from 2Pac and Dr. Dre. 2Pac, born Tupac Shakur, was an American rapper and actor known for his influential music, social activism, and controversial life.

4. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson (feat. Bruno Mars)

A 2014 funk-pop hit from Mark Ronson’s album “Uptown Special,” “Uptown Funk” features Bruno Mars’ energetic vocals and a catchy, infectious beat. Mark Ronson is an English musician, DJ, and record producer known for his collaborations with various artists and his versatile production style.

5. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen

A 2011 pop hit from Carly Rae Jepsen’s album “Kiss,” “Call Me Maybe” features an irresistibly catchy chorus and a lighthearted, upbeat melody. Carly Rae Jepsen is a Canadian singer and songwriter known for her infectious pop tunes and relatable lyrics.

6. “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega

A 1999 dance-pop hit from Lou Bega’s album “A Little Bit of Mambo,” “Mambo No. 5” features a catchy melody and infectious lyrics that get people dancing. Lou Bega is a German singer, songwriter, and producer known for his blend of Latin and pop music styles.

7. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen

A 1975 rock epic from Queen’s album “A Night at the Opera,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a genre-defying masterpiece that has become a popular sing-along track. Queen is a British rock band formed in 1970, known for their unique sound, theatrical performances, and iconic hits.

8. “Gold Digger” by Kanye West (feat. Jamie Foxx)

A 2005 hip-hop hit from Kanye West’s album “Late Registration,” “Gold Digger” features a catchy hook from Jamie Foxx and memorable verses from Kanye West. Kanye West is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his innovative music and polarizing personality.

Here are some fun facts about a few of the songs we’ve mentioned in our list of best college party songs:

1. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast
   • “Hey Ya!” was written and produced by OutKast member André 3000. It was initially met with skepticism by André’s bandmate, Big Boi, who didn’t think the song would be a hit due to its unconventional sound.
2. “Jump Around” by House of Pain
   • “Jump Around” has become synonymous with sports events, as it’s frequently played to hype up the crowd. The University of Wisconsin-Madison has made it a tradition to play the song between the third and fourth quarters of their football games.
3. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show
   • The chorus and melody of “Wagon Wheel” were originally sketched by Bob Dylan during the 1973 sessions for his album “Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid.” Old Crow Medicine Show’s Ketch Secor later completed the song by adding verses.
4. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
   • “Don’t Stop Believin'” gained renewed popularity in the late 2000s after being featured in the final scene of the TV series “The Sopranos” and later as a cover on the show “Glee.” It’s now one of the best-selling digital songs of all time.
5. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes
   • The iconic guitar riff of “Seven Nation Army” is often mistakenly thought to be played on a bass guitar. In reality, Jack White uses a semi-acoustic guitar with an octave pedal to achieve the distinctive sound.
6. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
   • “Bohemian Rhapsody” is notable for its unique structure, combining elements of ballad, opera, and hard rock. The song was initially considered too long and experimental for radio play, but it went on to become one of Queen’s most iconic hits.
7. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson (feat. Bruno Mars)
   • “Uptown Funk” took seven months to create, with Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars working tirelessly to perfect the song. The track went on to win two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year.
8. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
   • “Call Me Maybe” was initially written as a folk song, but Carly Rae Jepsen and her co-writers decided to give it a pop makeover. The song became a viral sensation, thanks in part to a lip-sync video featuring Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez.

As we wrap up our exploration of the best college party songs, we hope that you’ve found this list helpful and inspiring. With this diverse and energetic selection of tracks in your DJ arsenal, you’re well-equipped to keep the dance floor buzzing and the party atmosphere alive all night long.

Remember, the key to being a successful DJ is not only about the songs you play but also about your ability to read the crowd, adapt your set, and create memorable experiences for everyone in attendance. Don’t be afraid to mix and match genres, experiment with transitions, and most importantly, have fun behind the decks.

Keep practicing, refining your skills, and staying up to date with the latest music trends. Before you know it, you’ll be the go-to DJ for unforgettable college parties and beyond. Stay tuned to DJ’s Corner for more tips, tricks, and insights into the world of DJing, and don’t forget to share your own favorite party tracks in the comments below. Until next time, happy spinning!

Tbone

Thanks for reading.

Tbone