Ryan Raddon (aka Kaskade), in addition to being the #1 DJ in the United States (according to a 2011 DJ Times poll), the world’s #30 DJ (DJMag Top 100 DJs poll, also in 2011), is, in his own right, a chart-topping producer as well.
With 9 artist album releases and countless top remixes, there are myriad songs to choose from to determine a top 5 list. However I’ve got 5 that I think represent Kaskade’s best work. I’ve included a couple of remixes here because, well, they are fantastic and you won’t want to miss them.
Here’s the countdown:
5. Call Your Girlfriend (Robyn — Kaskade Dub)
This gem of a remix did not make it on the commercial release of Robyn’s album, but, this track is definitely “hands in the air,” and the drop is fantastic. This one can be found on Kaskade’s Soundcloud page.
Favorite moment: the drop. First one is at 1:27.
4. Be Still (Love Mysterious)
This song was released as the first single from Love Mysterious, which was released in 2006. It topped the Billboard Dance Club Play chart at #4. American singer Sunsun provides the very fine vocal work. Be Still also features some great guitar work throughout, a rarity in electronic dance music (EDM).
Favorite moment: 1:56. The start of the build up into the last refrain of the chorus. Backing guitar complements Sunsun’s gorgeous voice here. Also 3:04, the guitar solo. Rockin’ in a House tune. Couldn’t be better!
3. Room For Happiness (Fire & Ice)
I had never heard of Skylar Grey before I bought this album. But the combination of her passion-filled vocal rendition, the meaning-laden lyrics, and a pounding beat makes for a great song.
Favorite moment: 3:16. The break/bridge.
2. Love Is Not Enough (Above & Beyond — Kaskade Remix)
Kaskade’s remix of this track from Above & Beyond’s Group Therapy album is, not to put too fine a point on it, fantastic. The original mix was already top-notch, and Kaskade has add his brilliant and unique touch and made this into a favorite of mine.
Favorite moment: 3:40 the build-up into the last chorus. And overall, the piano. I love piano in EDM, and this is the perfect touch for this remix.
1. Don’t Stop Dancing (Dynasty)
This album, like most of Kaskade’s artist releases, is brimming with fantastic music. But the track that stands out to me is this one. Kaskade worked with EDX on this track, and Haley provides the excellent vocal work.
Favorite moment: the syncopated pikes throughout. Just love em. They provide the drive through this track that makes it so irresistible.