The Best Song Selections to Keep Virtual Events Engaging

Virtual events have become a central part of our lives, whether it’s for work, entertainment, or community gatherings. However, keeping attendees engaged during online events can be a challenge. One often overlooked but powerful tool is music. The right song selections can set the tone, energize participants, and make virtual gatherings unforgettable.

In addition, this guide walks you through how to choose the best music for different types of virtual events. Moreover, by the end, you’ll have tips and examples to create a playlist that grabs attention and makes your event a success. For a truly unforgettable experience, book DJ Will Gill, who is the best when it comes to corporate events. He has over 2,000 five-star reviews to support his outstanding reputation.

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Why Music Matters for Virtual Events

Music isn’t just background noise; it’s a mood enhancer and energy booster. It can:

• Create an emotional connection with attendees.
• Improve focus and prevent the dreaded “Zoom fatigue.”
• Make transitions smoother between segments or speakers.

Using the right songs can transform an event from ordinary to memorable, leaving your online audience feeling more connected.

Tailoring Song Selections for Different Virtual Events

Not all events are the same, so your song choices will vary depending on the type of gathering. Therefore, below, we’ve outlined popular virtual events and tips for music selection tailored to each.

1. Corporate Meetings and Team-Building Events

Corporate events might seem too formal for music, but a smart playlist can completely change the mood. Here’s how to approach music for work-centric events:

• Before the Event

Start with soft, uplifting songs as people join the call. This helps ease awkward silences and puts participants in a positive mindset. For example:

• • “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
  • “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay

• During Breaks

If your meeting includes breaks, use instrumental or lo-fi tracks for background music. These options keep things professional while maintaining energy:

• • “Weightless” by Marconi Union
  • “Lo-Fi Beats” from Spotify playlists

• End on a High Note

Close the meeting with an energizing song to leave a lasting impression, like:

• • “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
  • “Thunder” by Imagine Dragons

2. Online Parties and Celebrations

• Kick-off the Party

Start with a few crowd-pleasers to set the tone as guests join. For example:

• • “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
  • “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

• Interactive Portions

Consider adding songs that prompt attendees to dance or sing along. Here are some great choices:

• • “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
  • “Shout” by The Isley Brothers

• Wind-Down Music

Towards the end, transition to softer, feel-good tracks to wrap things up:

• • “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
  • “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

3. Webinars and Educational Sessions

• Pre-Event Setup

Use ambient tracks or mellow tunes during the waiting screen. This small touch keeps early attendees engaged:

• • “Chill Vibes” from curated playlists
  • “Bossa Nova Jazz” for a sophisticated feel

• Mood-Based Intro/Outro

Select music that reflects the webinar’s theme or content. For example:

• • For a productivity session, try “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen.
  • For calming topics, go with “River Flows in You” by Yiruma.

Keep the music subtle and ensure it fades out when the event begins or transitions into discussions.

4. Virtual Networking Events and Conferences

Networking events often need help breaking the ice. Music here can serve as a conversation starter and keep the atmosphere lively.

• Energetic Background Music

Play upbeat but not overpowering tracks in the background to encourage positive energy without interrupting conversations:

• • “Future Nostalgia” by Dua Lipa
  • “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man

• Theme-Based Music

If the networking event has a theme—like retro or international culture—curate your playlist accordingly:

• • For a 90s vibe, try “Wannabe” by Spice Girls or “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana.
  • For global themes, include diverse hits like “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi or “Waka Waka” by Shakira.

5. Virtual Relaxation Sessions

Yoga classes, meditation groups, or mindfulness webinars rely heavily on calm, soothing music to set the mood.

• Meditative Tracks

Focus on songs with slow tempos and natural sounds to promote relaxation:

• • “Weightless” by Marconi Union
  • “Ambient Piano Music”

• Nature-Based Sounds

General Tips for Crafting a Virtual Event Playlist

Creating an engaging playlist doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These tips will simplify the process and elevate the overall experience:

Keep Your Audience in Mind

Consider your attendees’ preferences. A younger audience may prefer pop and chart-topping tracks, while older audiences might appreciate classics or throwbacks. If you’re unsure, aim for universally loved songs.

Watch the Volume

Background music should always complement the event, not overshadow it. Adjust the volume to ensure it supports—not interrupts—conversation or presentations.

Playlists by Platforms

Popular platforms like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music offer pre-made playlists for nearly every mood or setting. Use these as inspiration or modify them to match your theme.

Test in Advance

Always test your playlist beforehand. Ensure seamless transitions between tracks to avoid awkward silences or distracting shifts in tempo.

Include Interactive Elements

For informal virtual events like parties, consider using polls or comment sections to allow attendees to request songs. This builds engagement and makes the experience more interactive.

Watch for Licensing Issues

If you’re streaming to a large group or recording the event, ensure you have the proper licensing for public use of the music.

Actionable Steps to Build Your Playlist

Now that you know the basics, here are three straightforward steps to create your playlist:

1. Start with a Theme

Identify the tone and style of your event. For example, is it a high-energy party or a calm mindfulness session? Use this as the foundation.

2. Curate and Organize

Choose 15–20 songs that match the theme, ensuring variety to cater to all tastes. Arrange the playlist in a logical order—for example, starting soft and building up energy for parties.

3. Test and Refine

Play through your list to ensure everything flows smoothly. Make adjustments to timing, volume, or song choices as needed.

The Power of Music

Music has the power to elevate any virtual event by creating mood, blocking distractions, and keeping attendees engaged. Whether it’s a work meeting or an online party, choosing the right songs is key to success.

Start experimenting with different playlists, and don’t be afraid to get creative! A little music can go a long way in transforming your event into something attendees will remember and enjoy.