Apple Music’s launch of a 24-hour EDM radio station is a huge moment for electronic dance music fans. It’s not just another playlist generator or automated station—it’s a real effort to celebrate the genre in all its forms. The station mixes big festival hits with underground tracks, creating a space where listeners can explore the full spectrum of EDM. What makes it even more interesting is the lineup of exclusive DJ sets and collaborations with legendary curators like Circoloco and Tomorrowland. This is the kind of move that brings fresh energy to the scene, especially for fans who are always looking for something new.
The best part? The station isn’t just about playing music—it dives deeper. With hosts sharing behind-the-scenes insights about tracks and mixes, it feels more like being part of a conversation than just tuning into a broadcast. It’s a reminder of what makes live, human-curated music experiences so special in an age of endless algorithms.
This kind of approach also highlights why creators and brands should think carefully about the music they use. Stock tracks from music libraries might be convenient, but they’re often overplayed and lack that spark of originality. Custom music, on the other hand, gives you something unique—whether it’s for a YouTube video, a brand campaign, or a film score. At REWWWIND, we specialize in creating music that tells your story, crafted specifically for your needs. Check out our services to see how we can help you stand out.
Apple Music’s new station is a perfect example of why originality matters. They’ve brought in exclusive mixes and unique sounds that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s this kind of attention to detail that makes the station feel alive and exciting. For creators, this should be a wake-up call. Whether you’re making videos, ads, or anything else, the right music can completely change the way people connect with your work. That’s where REWWWIND comes in. Learn more about what we do on our about page.
In the end, this station is more than just non-stop music—it’s about creating moments that resonate. For fans, it’s a chance to discover something new and meaningful. For creators, it’s a reminder that music should never be an afterthought. It’s time to ditch the overused tracks and invest in something original. REWWWIND can help you make that leap, delivering custom compositions that bring your vision to life. Reach out today and let’s create something unforgettable.
Electronic dance music is built on reinvention, taking snippets of sound and transforming them into global anthems. Some of the most iconic vocal hooks in EDM history have origins that might surprise you—borrowed from decades-old records, obscure movie dialogue, or even live performances. While some hits like Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” are well-known for their sampling, there are many hidden vocal gems with stories waiting to be uncovered.
Here’s a curated list of iconic and unexpected vocal samples in EDM and where they came from:
1. Eric Prydz – “Call on Me”
Sample Source: Steve Winwood – “Valerie” (1982) Eric Prydz’s timeless dance hit takes its unforgettable hook directly from Steve Winwood’s soulful track “Valerie.” What makes this sample iconic is Winwood himself re-recording the vocals to give Prydz permission to use it. This collaboration gave the track an extra punch and cemented its place as an all-time classic.
2. Fatboy Slim – “Right Here, Right Now”
Sample Source: Angela Bassett – Strange Days MOVIE (1995) This epic track opens with Angela Bassett’s line, “Right here, right now,” from the sci-fi thriller Strange Days. It’s a small but powerful vocal moment that defines the urgency and energy of Fatboy Slim’s masterpiece.
3. Daft Punk – “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger”
Sample Source: Edwin Birdsong – “Cola Bottle Baby” (1979) Daft Punk transformed a funky vocal snippet from Edwin Birdsong’s “Cola Bottle Baby” into one of their most famous tracks. The repetition and robotic processing turned this 70s funk tune into a futuristic anthem.
4. The Chemical Brothers feat. Q-Tip – Go
Sample Source: “By the Way You Dance (I Knew It Was You)” by Bunny Sigler (1978) In their 2015 track “Go!” from Born in the Echoes, The Chemical Brothers sample Bunny Sigler’s soulful hit “By the Way You Dance (I Knew It Was You)” from 1978. Sigler’s smooth, upbeat vocal line is reinterpreted by The Chemical Brothers, contributing to the track’s infectious groove and energy. This sample provides an unmistakable funk feel that blends beautifully with the electronic elements the duo is known for.
5. Avicii – “Levels”
Sample Source: Etta James – “Something’s Got a Hold on Me” (1962) The soaring vocal riff in “Levels” comes straight from the blues queen Etta James. The unmistakable, gospel-inspired “Ohhhh sometimes” refrain gave the track its spine, elevating it into a global sensation.
6. Disclosure – “When a Fire Starts to Burn”
Sample Source: Eric Thomas – Motivational Speech The intense and rhythmic vocal in this track comes from motivational speaker Eric Thomas. The duo chopped his energetic dialogue into a hypnotic mantra that perfectly complements their deep house groove.
7. The Prodigy – “Smack My B*h Up”**
Sample Source: Kool Keith – “Give the Drummer Some” (1988) The controversial hook from The Prodigy’s iconic track is a vocal snippet from Kool Keith. His line, “Change my pitch up, smack my b***h up,” was transformed into one of the most memorable phrases in dance music history.
8. Nero – “Reaching Out”
Sample Source: “Out of Touch” by Daryl Hall & John Oates (1984)
Nero’s 2011 track “Reaching Out,” from their album Welcome Reality, samples the iconic 1984 hit “Out of Touch” by Daryl Hall & John Oates. The sample appears around the 0:10 mark of “Reaching Out,” adding a touch of classic 80s synth-driven funk to the modern dubstep production. The combination of Daryl Hall’s soaring vocals and the gritty bass of Nero creates a unique hybrid sound that resonates across both old-school and contemporary dance music scenes.
9. Justice – “D.A.N.C.E.”
Sample Source:“Me Against the Music” by Britney Spears (2003)
Justice’s D.A.N.C.E. is often thought of as an interpolation of Britney Spears’ Me Against the Music—specifically the vocals and lyrics in the chorus. While the two tracks are distinct, the influence of the catchy vocal hook in Me Against the Music can be heard clearly in D.A.N.C.E., particularly in the chorus.
10. Armand Van Helden – “You Don’t Know Me”
Sample Source: Carrie Lucas – “Dance with You” (1979) The unforgettable riff in this track comes from Carrie Lucas’s disco hit. Armand Van Helden artfully blended the sample with his signature house production, making it an all-time dancefloor favorite.
11. Flume – “Holdin’ On”
Sample Source:“I Can’t Turn You Loose” by Anthony White (1977)
Flume’s track Holdin On features a memorable vocal sample from Anthony White’s I Can’t Turn You Loose. This sample, particularly noticeable around the 1:05 mark, helps create a soulful, groovy vibe that fits perfectly with Flume’s unique blend of future bass and electronic influences. The powerful, emotive vocal lines from White’s track are reinterpreted in Holdin On, adding depth and character to Flume’s production.
12. Moby – “Natural Blues”
Sample Source: Vera Hall – “Trouble So Hard” (1937) Moby’s haunting vocal refrain is a direct lift from Vera Hall’s traditional folk song. The bluesy wail contrasts beautifully with the electronic production, creating a timeless soundscape.
13. CamelPhat – “Compute”
Sample Source:“It’s More Fun to Compute” by Kraftwerk (1981) CamelPhat’s Compute, featuring Ali Love, utilizes a direct sample of It’s More Fun to Compute by Kraftwerk, but it is not a vocal sample. Instead, CamelPhat has sampled various instrumental and electronic elements from Kraftwerk’s 1981 track, It’s More Fun to Compute, which is part of their Computer World album.
The iconic mechanical beats, synthetic melodies, and digital soundscapes from the original track are reinterpreted and restructured throughout Compute in different sections, such as at 0:00, 0:08, and 0:55. These elements were some of the first to explore the connection between computers, technology, and music, and CamelPhat’s incorporation of them highlights their respect for Kraftwerk’s groundbreaking influence on the electronic genre.
14, Tiësto and Allure – “The Loves We Lost”
Sample Source:“She Can’t Feel Anything Anymore” by Paula Cole (1994) Tiësto and Allure’s The Loves We Lost from the In Search of Sunrise 4: Latin America compilation includes a subtle but impactful sample from Paula Cole’s track She Can’t Feel Anything Anymore off her 1994 album Harbinger. The sample appears at key points throughout The Loves We Lost — specifically at 2:05, 3:01, 3:59, and 5:10 — and serves as a signature emotional element of the track.
The sample from Paula Cole’s original song, particularly the melodic hook and emotional vocal phrasing, is carefully integrated into the trance anthem, accentuating its melancholic and reflective themes. The use of this sample blends the heartfelt atmosphere of Cole’s 1994 release with the uplifting yet emotional nature of Tiësto’s trance production, creating a rich juxtaposition.
15. Burial – “Archangel” Sample Source: “One Wish” by Ray J (2005)
Burial’s Archangel from his 2007 album Untrue uses a direct vocal sample from Ray J’s 2005 hit One Wish, found on his Raydiation album. The sample appears multiple times throughout Archangel—specifically at 0:13, 0:15, 0:50, 1:22, 2:48, and 2:49—and provides an emotionally haunting and atmospheric layer to the track’s dark, UK garage-inspired beats.
The sample is subtly altered, with Ray J’s vulnerable and yearning vocal lines woven into Burial’s ghostly production, creating a contrast between R&B’s emotive quality and the cold, dystopian atmosphere of Archangel. The juxtaposition of these elements transforms One Wish into something entirely new, fitting perfectly within Burial’s signature sound while adding a soulful, human element to the haunting, electronic track.
Massive Attack’s iconic track Unfinished Sympathy from their groundbreaking 1991 album Blue Lines incorporates a direct sample from Mahavishnu Orchestra’s Planetary Citizen, which was featured on their 1976 album Inner Worlds. The sample appears at key points in Unfinished Sympathy, notably at 0:32, 2:19, and 2:30, and adds a unique layer of texture to the song’s mix of electronic, soul, and jazz influences.
The sampled section from Mahavishnu Orchestra’s track includes an ethereal, sweeping instrumental, which seamlessly blends into Massive Attack’s deep, atmospheric production. This collaboration between the worlds of jazz fusion and electronic music gives Unfinished Sympathy a complex, layered soundscape, underscoring the track’s themes of love, loss, and emotional depth. The fusion of these two genres—spanning over two decades—creates a timeless piece that still resonates within the electronic music scene today.
17. Aphex Twin – “Xtal” Sample Source: “Evil at Play” by Steve Jefferies, Mary Carewe, and Donald Greig (1986)
Aphex Twin’s iconic track Xtal from his 1992 album Selected Ambient Works 85-92 uses a direct sample from Evil at Play, a track by Steve Jefferies, Mary Carewe, and Donald Greig. The sample, which appears at 0:17 and 0:15 in Evil at Play, is subtly incorporated throughout Xtal, giving the song a lush, atmospheric feel that became a hallmark of Aphex Twin’s ambient style.
The sampled elements from Evil at Play bring a dreamy, almost haunting vocal atmosphere to the track. While Xtal is primarily an instrumental piece, the inclusion of the sample enhances its textural depth, making it a defining moment in the evolution of early electronic and ambient music. The fusion of these vocals and Aphex Twin’s intricate, ethereal production creates a sound that has since influenced countless artists in the ambient and IDM genres.
How to Make Your Own Mark in EDM
Inspired by the genius sampling in these tracks? Crafting your own hit with a standout vocal hook takes skill, creativity, and the right collaborators. At REWWWIND, our team specializes in music composition and production, helping you bring your vision to life. Whether you need an original vocal recording or expert advice on licensing samples, we’ve got you covered.
Sampling has always been an essential part of EDM, breathing new life into forgotten or overlooked recordings. Whether producers repurpose iconic moments or create fresh ones inspired by older styles, vocal samples continue to bridge generations and shape the future of dance music.
What’s your favorite sampled vocal moment in EDM? Let us know in the comments!
Resident Advisor Website: residentadvisor.net Focus: Dance Music News, Events, Reviews, Artist Profiles Why It’s Great: Resident Advisor has long been the top go-to blog for anyone in the dance music scene. It covers everything from underground to mainstream electronic music with a focus on in-depth artist profiles, festival reviews, and industry news. With its expert commentary, RA is the perfect destination for those who want to stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of electronic music.
Mixmag Website: mixmag.net Focus: Dance Music News, Artist Interviews, Reviews, Club Culture Why It’s Great: Known as one of the most iconic electronic music publications, Mixmag brings readers everything they need to know about the electronic music scene. From rave culture to exclusive interviews with top DJs and producers, this blog is essential for anyone passionate about dance music. Mixmag also provides coverage on events, album releases, and features about the evolution of music and sound.
DJ Mag Website: djmag.com Focus: DJ News, Rankings, Features, and Reviews Why It’s Great: If you want to know who’s making waves in the DJ world, DJ Mag is a must-read. Known for its annual Top 100 DJs poll, DJ Mag offers extensive coverage of the global dance music scene, including interviews with top DJs, breaking news, festival coverage, and reviews of the latest tracks and albums.
REWWWIND Portal Blog Website: REWWWIND Portal Blog Focus: Custom Music Production, Music Composition, Music Industry Insights, Artist Spotlights Why It’s Great: The REWWWIND Portal Blog is a must-follow for anyone looking for in-depth guidance on custom music production. Focused on providing expert advice, production tips, and industry trends, this blog also offers exclusive insights into the world of bespoke music services. Whether you’re looking to enhance a project with a custom track or want to know more about the nuances of music composition, REWWWIND has you covered with top-notch content straight from industry professionals.
Your EDM Website: youredm.com Focus: EDM News, Reviews, Releases, and Features Why It’s Great: Your EDM is an essential resource for electronic music fans, especially those into mainstream EDM. This blog offers timely news on new releases, tour announcements, and the hottest happenings in the electronic music world. It’s also packed with opinion pieces and reviews of the latest tracks, albums, and events.
Electronic Beats Website: electronicbeats.net Focus: News, Artist Interviews, Music Releases, Tech, and Culture Why It’s Great: Electronic Beats is a digital hub for electronic music culture. Powered by Telekom, it offers an impressive range of music news, artist interviews, lifestyle pieces, and insights into the latest trends in both music and technology. The site covers everything from techno and house to more experimental and niche genres.
Deep House Amsterdam Website: deephouseamsterdam.com Focus: Deep House Music, Artist Spotlights, Event Listings Why It’s Great: As the name suggests, Deep House Amsterdam is all about deep house music and culture. Offering a mix of news, album reviews, interviews, and event coverage, this site is perfect for fans of deep house, house, and tech house genres.
Trance Hub Website: trancehub.com Focus: Trance Music, DJ Set Reviews, Track Reviews Why It’s Great: If trance is your genre of choice, Trance Hub is the place to be. This blog delivers everything you need to know about the world of trance, from album reviews to new track releases and insights into the best DJs in the genre. With its deep focus on trance music, it’s the ultimate blog for fans of uplifting and progressive sounds.
XLR8R Website: xlr8r.com Focus: Electronic Music News, Tech Reviews, Podcasts, and Tracks Why It’s Great: For fans of underground and experimental music, XLR8R is a standout. Offering everything from music news to DJ tools and gear reviews, this site is a treasure trove of knowledge for producers and DJs. It’s perfect for those looking to discover new, innovative sounds within the electronic genre.
The Sound of Vinyl Website: thesoundofvinyl.com Focus: Vinyl Releases, Artist Spotlights, Genre Features Why It’s Great: A haven for vinyl lovers, The Sound of Vinyl curates a unique collection of electronic and indie music available on vinyl. This blog not only highlights the best in electronic releases but also delves into the stories behind the artists and the culture surrounding vinyl records.
RA Podcast Website: residentadvisor.net/podcasts Focus: DJ Mixes, Podcasts, and Exclusive Content Why It’s Great: RA Podcast is the audio extension of Resident Advisor, featuring guest mixes from some of the best DJs and producers in the world. These podcasts cover a wide range of electronic music styles and give fans an inside look at the music being played at clubs and festivals across the globe.
In a highly anticipated move for the video game industry, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, the masterminds behind iconic soundtracks such as The Social Network and Gone Girl, are set to score the soundtrack for Naughty Dog’s newest game franchise. The collaboration marks a thrilling new chapter for both the composers and the renowned game studio, known for their work on legendary titles like The Last of Us and Uncharted.
This partnership promises to elevate the gaming experience to new heights, much like how custom soundtracks can transform your own media projects. Whether you’re developing a video game, film, or other multimedia content, custom music compositions can help bring your vision to life.
A Game-Changing Collaboration for ‘Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet’
Naughty Dog’s upcoming game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, takes players on a cosmic journey, and with Reznor and Ross on board, the soundtrack is bound to be an essential element in setting the tone and atmosphere. This collaboration highlights how integral a custom score is in modern video game development—perfectly tailored to the themes, characters, and world of the game.
Much like Naughty Dog and their collaboration with these iconic composers, your project could benefit from the power of custom music production. At REWWWIND, we offer bespoke services to deliver high-quality music tailored to your specific needs. From video games to films and advertisements, our composers create music that perfectly matches the emotions and atmosphere of your project.
Why Custom Music Makes All the Difference
The importance of a custom score cannot be overstated, as it serves as the backbone of the gaming or cinematic experience. Just like how Reznor and Ross are composing a unique score for Intergalactic, a tailored soundtrack will ensure that every moment in your game or film is enhanced. The music becomes more than just a background element—it becomes a key part of the storytelling.
Working with REWWWIND ensures that you get a soundtrack designed to fit the exact mood and narrative of your project. Whether it’s building tension, creating excitement, or providing an emotional connection to the story, custom music is the perfect way to achieve this.
Elevate Your Project with REWWWIND’s Custom Music Services
As Naughty Dog works with some of the best in the business to create a groundbreaking soundtrack, you too can work with REWWWIND for your music production needs. Here’s why:
Quick Turnaround Without Compromising Quality
At REWWWIND, we understand the fast-paced nature of creative projects. That’s why we offer fast, 48-hour delivery without sacrificing quality. You can trust us to meet your deadlines and deliver professional-grade music, no matter the scope of your project.
Collaborative Process for Maximum Creativity
When you work with REWWWIND, you’re not just getting a soundtrack—you’re getting a collaboration. We work closely with you to make sure the music aligns with your vision. Whether you’re in need of orchestral scores, electronic music, or something entirely unique, our team of composers is equipped to meet your needs.
Versatility Across Genres
Whether you’re creating a space adventure like Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, a thrilling action game, or a drama-filled documentary, we offer custom music compositions across a wide range of genres. At REWWWIND, we pride ourselves on offering a tailored approach, ensuring your music perfectly complements the vision of your project.
Ready to take your project to the next level with a custom soundtrack? Visit our services page to find out how REWWWIND can create a unique and powerful score that sets your project apart. Whether it’s for video games, film, or any other media, we’re here to bring your vision to life.
For more information on how we work and the services we offer, be sure to check out our about page. We look forward to working with you to create something truly special.