Our Sounds of Paradise column includes an exclusive DJ set that normally conveys a different destination each month. Since February is for lovers, however, we’ve created a global dance mix on the theme of amour. Listen to the mix via the music player below, and keep reading for more insight into the song selections.
Claudio Tempesta “Love Is The Message”
A DJ and producer from idyllic Rimini, Italy, Tempesta’s body-moving opening song pays respect to American originators of house music and techno such as Frankie Knuckles and Terence Parker.
Los Amigos Invisibles “Amor” (Live)
Love and music unite us all around the world. This sentiment is wonderfully represented in a live rendition of “Amor” by Venezuela’s Los Amigos Invisibles, whose extensive catalog is well worth seeking out.
IVE “After LIKE”
A six-member K-Pop group from Seoul that also serves as ambassadors to the South Korean Red Cross, IVE doesn’t spell out the love, but you’ll instantly feel it.
Pongo “Hey Linda”
Angolan-Portuguese singer Pongo provides an anthem for self-love that should be played alongside songs such as Mary J. Blige’s “Good Morning Gorgeous” all year long.
MFSB “Love Is The Message”
Philly orchestra MFSB (Mother Father Sister Brother) provided a blueprint for disco and house music for decades with this 1973 classic. It’s been heavily sampled in all kinds of different songs and tempos, from hip-hop to drum & bass.
4hero “Universal Love”
Speaking of drum & bass, England’s 4hero is one of the masters of the genre. 1994’s “Universal Love” remains a timeless choice for DJs around the world.
Lizzo “2B Loved (Am I Ready)”
Lizzo’s boyfriend Myke Wright has been her muse for her latest album, which you can really hear on this song. She has to embrace herself before she can embrace him and let love rule, and that’s a hug that can help anyone.
D Train “You’re The One For Me”
The early ‘80s work of James “D Train” Williams has gained new life on TikTok and other social platforms for the timeless joy in its songs. “You’re The One For Me” could have been written at any point in the last 40 years and feel fresh.
Outkast “Prototype”
We hope that Andre 3000’s ballad from the Diamond-selling Speakerboxx/The Love Below Album puts you in the mood for love for yourself and others. Venture forth and love!
Listen to more mixes in the Sounds of Paradise series:
Sounds of Paradise 001: St. Barts
Sounds of Paradise 002: Telluride
Sounds of Paradise 003: Coachella
Sounds of Paradise 004: Hawaii
Sounds of Paradise 005: England
Sounds of Paradise 007: Berlin
Sounds of Paradise 008: Atlanta
Sounds of Paradise 009: Jamaica
