11 Underrated Dance Songs: Dance Essentials

Hey there, music enthusiasts and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and today I’ve got something special for you. As someone who lives and breathes music, I’m always on the hunt for those hidden gems that get your feet moving but somehow fly under the radar.

So, I’ve decided to compile a list of 11 underrated dance songs that deserve more spotlight. These tracks are not your typical chart-toppers, but they pack an infectious beat and an energy that’s hard to ignore.

Whether you’re looking for new tunes to spice up your DJ set or just want to explore some fresh beats, this list is for you.

Let’s dive into the world of underrated dance music and discover some tracks that should be on everyone’s playlist.

Here are the underrated Dance songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Dance Songs

Underrated Dance songs in a list format:

1. “Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love)” by Spiller feat. Sophie Ellis-Bextor (2000, Positiva Records)

From the album “Groovejet,” this Spiller masterpiece featuring the enchanting vocals of Sophie Ellis-Bextor is a hidden jewel of dance music. Released in 2000 under Positiva Records, it’s a fusion of disco and house that brings a nostalgic yet fresh feel. Its catchy chorus and Ellis-Bextor’s distinct voice make it a timeless classic. I chose this song because it perfectly blends nostalgic disco elements with modern house, creating a sound that’s both familiar and innovative.

2. “Rej” by Âme (2005, Sonar Kollektiv)

“Rej” from the German duo Âme is a deep house sensation that was released in 2005 under Sonar Kollektiv. It’s a minimalistic yet powerful track, known for its hypnotic synth lines and a mesmerizing rhythm. The song gained acclaim in underground dance circles but didn’t quite hit the mainstream. Its subtle build-up and elegant simplicity make it a staple for any deep house lover. I admire how it proves that sometimes less is more in dance music, focusing on creating a mood rather than overwhelming the listener.

3. “Pacific State” by 808 State (1989, ZTT Records)

A classic from 1989, “Pacific State” by 808 State, found its home in the album “Ninety” under ZTT Records. This track is a pioneer in the acid house scene, combining soothing saxophone lines with pulsating electronic rhythms. It’s a song that captures the essence of the late ’80s rave culture. I included “Pacific State” because of its historical significance and its timeless sound that continues to resonate with audiences today.

4. “At Les” by Carl Craig (1997, Planet E)

Carl Craig’s “At Les,” released in 1997 under his label Planet E, is a journey through ambient techno. Featured in his album “More Songs About Food and Revolutionary Art,” it’s a masterclass in building atmosphere and emotion through electronic music. The song’s evolving layers and subtle progressions offer a deeply immersive experience. I chose “At Les” for its emotional depth and its ability to transport the listener to a different headspace.

5. “Finally” by Kings of Tomorrow feat. Julie McKnight (2001, Defected Records)

This soulful house classic by Kings of Tomorrow, featuring Julie McKnight’s powerful vocals, comes from their 2001 album “It’s in the Lifestyle.” Released under Defected Records, “Finally” blends gospel-inspired vocals with deep, groovy house beats. It’s a song that fills the dance floor with its uplifting lyrics and infectious rhythm. I selected this track for its perfect balance of soulful vocals and compelling house beats.

6. “Windowlicker” by Aphex Twin (1999, Warp Records)

“Windowlicker” by Aphex Twin, released in 1999 under Warp Records, is an experimental journey. From the album of the same name, it’s a blend of ambient sounds, irregular beats, and distorted vocals that create a unique soundscape. This song stands out for its avant-garde approach and its daring departure from traditional dance music. I appreciate “Windowlicker” for its artistic boldness and its ability to push the boundaries of electronic music.

7. “Born Slippy .NUXX” by Underworld (1995, Junior Boy’s Own)

Featured in the album “Second Toughest in the Infants,” Underworld’s “Born Slippy .NUXX” was released in 1995 under Junior Boy’s Own. This track became an anthem of the ’90s, particularly known for its feature in the film “Trainspotting.” It’s a mix of techno and progressive house, with an unforgettable vocal hook. I included it for its cultural impact and its raw, energetic pulse that captures the spirit of an era.

8. “Music Sounds Better With You” by Stardust (1998, Roulé)

Stardust’s one-hit wonder, “Music Sounds Better With You,” was released in 1998 under Roulé. This French house track, with its sample from Chaka Khan’s “Fate,” is a perfect example of how to do a dancefloor anthem right. It’s from their only album “Stardust,” and its catchy hook and groovy beat make it an irresistible dance classic. This song made my list for its timeless appeal and its ability to make anyone feel like dancing.

9. “Days Go By” by Dirty Vegas (2001, Parlophone)

From the self-titled album “Dirty Vegas,” the song “Days Go By” was released in 2001 under Parlophone. It’s a blend of electronic music with a pop sensibility, featuring a catchy guitar riff and a memorable vocal line. This track stands out for its fusion of different styles, creating a sound that’s both accessible and danceable. I appreciate “Days Go By” for its crossover appeal and its ability to bring electronic music to a wider audience.

10. “Your Love” by Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle (1987, Trax Records)

“Your Love” by the legendary Frankie Knuckles, featuring Jamie Principle, is a true classic in the house music genre. Released in 1987 under Trax Records, it’s from the album “Beyond the Mix.” This song is revered for its pioneering sound, combining soulful vocals with a driving house beat. I included “Your Love” because of its historical significance in shaping the house music scene and its enduring influence.

11. “Big Fun” by Inner City (1988, Virgin Records)

Last but not least, “Big Fun” by Inner City, from the album “Paradise,” was released in 1988 under Virgin Records. This track is a quintessential Detroit techno anthem, marked by its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus. It’s a song that encapsulates the energy and optimism of late ’80s dance music. I chose “Big Fun” for its vibrant energy and its role in popularizing the Detroit techno sound.

Fun Facts: Underrated Dance Songs

1. “Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love)” by Spiller feat. Sophie Ellis-Bextor

• First Song with Vinyl Scratch Sounds to Top UK Charts: “Groovejet” was the first song featuring vinyl scratch sounds to reach the top of the UK Singles Chart.
• Spiller’s First Major Hit: Although Spiller had been active in the music scene, “Groovejet” was his first major international hit.
• Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Breakthrough: This song marked the breakthrough for Sophie Ellis-Bextor into mainstream music, transitioning from her indie band background.

2. “Rej” by Âme

• A Favorite Among DJs: “Rej” became an instant classic among DJs worldwide, often cited for its innovative use of minimalistic beats in deep house music.
• Longevity in DJ Sets: Despite its age, “Rej” continues to be a staple in DJ sets, demonstrating its timeless appeal.

3. “Pacific State” by 808 State

• Named After a Bird Call: The iconic saxophone part in “Pacific State” is said to be inspired by and mimic the call of a Pacific seabird.
• Innovators in Acid House: 808 State were pioneers in the acid house movement, and “Pacific State” was one of the tracks that cemented their status in this genre.

4. “At Les” by Carl Craig

• A Tribute to Les Bains Douches: The track is named “At Les” in homage to the famous Parisian club Les Bains Douches, known for its vibrant nightlife and influence on electronic music.

5. “Finally” by Kings of Tomorrow feat. Julie McKnight

• A Chart Climber: “Finally” became a top 40 hit in the UK and a number one on the US Dance charts, showcasing its crossover appeal from underground to mainstream.
• Featured in Popular Video Games: The song has been featured in several video games, including the Dance Dance Revolution series, further cementing its place in pop culture.

6. “Windowlicker” by Aphex Twin

• Iconic and Bizarre Music Video: The music video for “Windowlicker” is famous for its surreal and bizarre imagery, directed by Chris Cunningham. It has since become a cult classic.
• Complex Time Signature: The song is known for its complex time signature and intricate sound design, showcasing Aphex Twin’s technical prowess.

7. “Born Slippy .NUXX” by Underworld

• Featured in ‘Trainspotting’: The song gained massive popularity after being featured in the final scene of the film “Trainspotting,” directed by Danny Boyle.
• Accidental Hit: The track was originally a B-side and its success was unexpected, becoming one of Underworld’s most recognized tracks.

8. “Music Sounds Better With You” by Stardust

• A One-Hit Wonder: Stardust was a one-off collaboration between Thomas Bangalter (of Daft Punk), Alan Braxe, and vocalist Benjamin Diamond. They never released another song after this hit.
• Sampled from Chaka Khan: The song samples “Fate” by Chaka Khan, which is a key element in its catchy hook.

9. “Days Go By” by Dirty Vegas

• Grammy Award Winner: “Days Go By” won a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording in 2003.
• Prominent in a Commercial: The song gained significant attention after being featured in a Mitsubishi Eclipse commercial, which helped launch it into mainstream success.

10. “Your Love” by Frankie Knuckles feat. Jamie Principle

• Godfather of House Music: Frankie Knuckles, often called the Godfather of House Music, played a crucial role in developing the house music scene, and “Your Love” is one of his signature tracks.
• An Underground Sensation: Originally released as a bootleg, “Your Love” was a massive hit in underground dance clubs before it was officially released.

11. “Big Fun” by Inner City

• Defining Detroit Techno: “Big Fun” played a significant role in defining the Detroit techno sound and bringing it to a global audience.
• Featured in Numerous Compilations: The song has been featured in numerous compilations and retrospectives of classic house and techno music.

And there you have it – a journey through 11 underrated dance tracks that have left their mark on the music world. These gems showcase the diversity and richness of dance music, proving that there’s always more to discover. So, plug in your headphones, hit play, and let the beats take you away!

Thanks for reading.

TBone