Types of Music Playlists to Make for Your Next Party

By | Published On: July 23, 2025 | 4.8 min read |

A DJ wearing a cap and headphones performs live at a corporate event. He stand behind a booth that displays music playlists.

Music can make or break a party. The right songs set the mood, keep the energy high, and make everyone feel comfortable. But figuring out what to play isn’t always easy. That’s why it’s smart to create playlists ahead of time.

Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or a chill gathering, here are a few types of playlists to consider. Ultimately, these will help you cover every kind of vibe your guests might want. Book the best DJ, Will Gill, today and ensure your corporate event hits all the right notes with his expert curation and unmatched energy!

1. Upbeat Dance Music

When it’s time to hit the dance floor, you need songs that get everyone moving. Ideally, this playlist should be full of catchy beats and high-energy tracks. Think of tunes that make it impossible for people to sit still.

Artists and Songs to Include:

  • Dua Lipa – Don’t Start Now
  • Calvin Harris – Summer
  • Lizzo – About Damn Time
  • Bruno Mars – Uptown Funk
  • David Guetta – Titanium (featuring Sia)

Pro tip: Mix classic dance tracks with current chart-toppers to please all age groups. For example, balance Beyoncé’s Crazy in Love with a recent hit like Sam Smith’s Unholy.

2. Chill Background Tunes

Not every part of a party is about jumping around. For instance, sometimes, people want to chat and relax with a drink in hand. In fact, for these moments, a chill background playlist works best.

These songs should blend into the atmosphere without overpowering conversation. Additionally, look for music with softer beats and mellow vibes.

Artists and Songs to Include:

  • Norah Jones – Don’t Know Why
  • Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud
  • John Mayer – Gravity
  • Lo-fi Beats (for instrumental music)
  • Vance Joy – Riptide

Make sure the playlist stretches for at least a couple of hours. You don’t want it to loop too soon and bore your guests.

3. Themed Playlists

A themed playlist is a fun way to tie your music to the overall vibe of your party. If you’re hosting a ‘90s party, for instance, you can pack your playlist with boy bands, grunge, and pop hits. Throwing a tropical party? Look for reggae and Caribbean beats.

Examples of Themes and Songs to Match:

  • ’80s Party
    • Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
    • Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Want to Have Fun
    • Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance with Somebody
  • Beach Bash
    • Bob Marley – Three Little Birds
    • Harry Styles – Watermelon Sugar
    • The Beach Boys – Surfin’ USA
  • Country Night
    • Luke Bryan – Country Girl (Shake It for Me)
    • Shania Twain – Man! I Feel Like a Woman!
    • Morgan Wallen – Whiskey Glasses

Therefore, pick a theme that matches the vibe of your gathering and run with it. Indeed, the right music can bring your theme to life.

4. Crowd-Pleasers

Every party needs a go-to playlist full of favorites that almost everyone knows. These songs make your guests sing along, laugh, and maybe even cheer when the first few notes hit. This playlist is perfect for keeping the energy up when there’s a mix of tastes or when you’re playing it safe.

Artists and Songs to Include:

  • Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody
  • ABBA – Dancing Queen
  • Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’
  • Taylor Swift – Shake It Off
  • Justin Timberlake – Can’t Stop the Feeling!

Similarly, try to include songs from a variety of eras. Classic hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s, paired with current sing-alongs, ensure everyone has something they’ll enjoy.

5. Throwback Hits

Throwbacks always win at parties. People love being reminded of songs they grew up with. A mix of pop, R&B, and early 2000s rap is often a hit for millennials and Gen Z. For older groups, go for oldies or classic rock.

Suggestions for a Nostalgic Playlist:

  • Destiny’s Child – Say My Name
  • Britney Spears – Toxic
  • N’Sync – Bye Bye Bye
  • Gwen Stefani – Hollaback Girl
  • Eminem – Lose Yourself

If you want even older tracks, consider Elvis Presley, The Beatles, or Diana Ross and the Supremes.

6. Karaoke Favorites

If your party has a karaoke machine, create a playlist of singable songs. Additionally, these should be crowd-friendly with easy-to-follow lyrics. Ultimately, guests of all vocal skills should be able to join in and have fun.

Easy Karaoke Songs for Parties:

  • Adele – Someone Like You
  • Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way
  • Lady Gaga – Shallow
  • Neil Diamond – Sweet Caroline
  • The Killers – Mr. Brightside

Keep this playlist lighthearted. Bonus points if the songs are well-known or tied to feel-good memories.

Tips for Mixing and Keeping the Energy High

Now that you’ve got your playlists, here are a few tips to make sure they work well for your party atmosphere:

  • Start Slow, Build Energy: Set the tone early on with chill music. Save the dance tracks for when the party starts picking up. You don’t want to exhaust guests with nonstop high-energy songs.
  • Create Smooth Transitions: Jumping between drastically different genres or tempos can feel jarring. Use songs with similar beats to transition smoothly from one mood to another.
  • Have a Backup: Create a short “emergency” playlist for sudden vibe changes or playlist issues.
  • Read the Room: Pay attention to how people are responding to the music. If the energy dips, swap in more upbeat songs to bring it back up.
  • Take Requests: If your guests have song suggestions, don’t be afraid to add them to the queue. This inclusion makes everyone feel involved.

Final Thoughts

A great playlist can take your party to the next level. Start with these ideas, and tailor the music to your guests and the vibe you want to create. Whether you want people dancing, singing, or just chilling, the right tunes will set the mood perfectly. Get your playlists ready, press play, and watch the good times roll!