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The countdown to the New Year is a time of celebration, and no party is complete without a carefully curated playlist. Music sets the tone for the night, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether it’s a mellow gathering or an all-night dance party, a great playlist can elevate the entire event, matching the mood and vibe of the celebration. For canna-lovers, the goal is to create a playlist that flows effortlessly through different stages of the evening, complementing the effects of the cannabis and ensuring everyone stays relaxed, engaged, and ready to ring in the New Year.
Here’s a guide to building the ultimate New Year’s party playlist—one that blends chill vibes, funky grooves, dance anthems, and canna-friendly jams.
Start Slow: Setting the Mood
As guests begin to arrive, it’s important to ease into the evening with relaxed, easygoing tunes. The goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can settle in and start enjoying the experience without feeling rushed. Music at this stage should be mellow but interesting, something that invites relaxation while still leaving room for connection and conversation.
Recommended Tracks:
Arlo Parks—Black Dog
Tycho—Awake
Naomi Sharon—Time and Trust
Vulfpeck—Back Pocket
Masego—Tadow (with FKJ)
Tom Misch & Yussef Dayes—What Kinda Music
Dorian Concept—The Sky Opposite
MF Doom—Mean The Most
Khruangbin—Maria También
Build the Groove: Funk and Soul Vibes
Once the initial chatter (and perhaps cannabis) starts to settle in, the playlist can begin to evolve. Adding some funk, soul, or smooth R&B brings a fresh energy to the room without ramping up the intensity too quickly. These genres complement the elevated state of relaxation and enhance the social vibe. The goal here is to maintain a fun, groovy atmosphere that encourages movement without making anyone feel like the party is in full swing just yet.
Recommended Tracks:
Toro y Moi—Freelance
Thundercat—Funny Thing
Chic—Good Times
James Brown—Get Up Offa That Thing
Doechii featuring SZA—Persuaisive
Curtis Mayfield—Move On Up
Amp Up the Energy: Danceable Jams
As the night progresses and the energy starts to rise, it’s time to pick up the tempo and play some high-energy anthems that will have everyone moving. This section of the playlist should be packed with danceable tracks that keep the momentum going and get everyone in the mood to hit the dance floor.
Recommended Tracks:
Lewis OfMan—Attitude
Royce Fisherman—Billabong Babe
Kaytranada featuring Syd—You’re the One
Bicep—Glue
Kaytranada featuring Channel Tres—Drip Sweat
Shygirl—SLIME
Gorillaz featuring DRAM—Andromeda
Jorja Smith—Little Things
The Countdown: High-Energy Anthems for the Big Moment
As the clock ticks toward midnight, it’s time to crank up the energy. In this phase of the playlist, the tunes should be bold, experimental, and filled with infectious beats that get the crowd moving and unite everyone in the shared thrill of the New Year’s arrival. These tracks should feel anthemic, blending powerful rhythms with modern, genre-bending sounds that will ensure the final moments are filled with energy.
Recommended Tracks:
B52s—52 Girls
Prince—1999
Shygirl—Freak
David Bowie—Let’s Dance
Snakehips & Earthgang—GLIMMER
Kaytranada featuring Anderson .Paak—The Worst in Me
Kah-Lo—Fire
Disclosure—When a Fire Starts to Burn
Wind Down: Smooth Tunes to Close the Night
After the clock strikes midnight and the celebrations peak, it’s time to slow things down and ease into a more relaxed, reflective vibe. The final phase of the playlist should feature smooth, soothing tunes that allow everyone to wind down in peace.
Recommended Tracks:
Jamiroquai—Virtual Insanity
Pond—Sweep Me Off My Feet
St. Panther—These Days
Alabama Shakes—Gimme All Your Love
Blood Orange—Charcoal Baby
Lana Del Rey—Venice Bitch
Free Nationals—The Rivington
The perfect playlist can elevate any New Year’s celebration. Ready to hear it all come together? Check out our full New Year’s Party Playlist here.
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