Over the years, the music industry has seen countless trends and fads come and go. But one trend that has stood the test of time is the resurgence of old hits in the form of club-ready reworks. These reworks have been dominating the Beatport charts, catching the attention of both music lovers and industry professionals alike. In fact, according to Kevin McKay, founder of Glasgow Underground, almost all labels are jumping on board and producing their own versions of these nostalgic classics.
The concept of reworking old hits is not new. It has been around for decades, with artists putting their own spin on popular songs to breathe new life into them. However, in recent years, it has become a major trend in the electronic dance music scene, with DJs and producers taking on the challenge of remixing old favorites and giving them a modern, dancefloor-friendly sound.
So why the sudden surge in these reworks? It could be attributed to the current state of the music industry. With the rise of streaming services and the decline of record sales, labels and artists are constantly looking for ways to stay relevant and make a profit. And what better way to do that than by tapping into the nostalgia of listeners and delivering a fresh take on familiar songs?
But it’s not just about monetary gain. As McKay points out, there is also a creative element to these reworks. He explains, “It’s a fun challenge for producers to take something that is already great and make it even better for a modern audience.” And that is exactly what they are doing.
From disco classics to ’90s R&B hits, the Beatport charts have been peppered with these reworks, with each one offering a unique twist on the original. And it’s not just limited to one genre. Artists from the underground techno scene to the commercial EDM world are all jumping on the bandwagon and putting their own spin on old favorites.
One notable example is the rework of the iconic ’80s hit “Blue Monday” by New Order. The song has been remixed countless times, with each version achieving success on the charts. But it was German DJ and producer T78’s 2019 remix that really caught the attention of listeners, making it one of the most played tracks of the year and earning him a spot on the Beatport Top 100 Techno Artists chart.
Another popular rework on the charts is the remix of the ’90s dance anthem “Rhythm is a Dancer” by Snap! Italian DJ and producer Leandro Da Silva’s 2018 version took the song to a whole new level, with its infectious bassline and energetic beats. The track not only dominated the charts but also became a staple in dance music festivals and clubs around the world.
But it’s not just international artists who are getting in on the trend. Homegrown talent is also making their mark in the rework scene. One such example is the remix of the ’80s hit “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by the Eurythmics. The rework by Indian DJ and producer Two Friends gained popularity not only in India but also internationally, earning them a spot at the prestigious Coachella Music Festival.
The success of these reworks goes to show that nostalgia is a powerful force in the music industry. It not only allows artists to showcase their creativity but also brings back fond memories for listeners, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved.
However, it’s not just about reworking old hits. It’s also about introducing a new generation to these timeless classics. As McKay rightly says, “A lot of young people may not have heard these songs before, so it’s a way of introducing them to something they might have missed.” And what better way to do that than with a fresh, modern twist?
In addition to introducing new listeners to old hits, these reworks also have the power to unite people on the dancefloor. Music has always been a universal language, and these reworks bridge the gap between generations, bringing together different age groups to dance and sing along to familiar tunes.
In conclusion, the reworking of old hits has become a major trend in the electronic dance music scene, dominating the Beatport charts and captivating listeners worldwide. It’s not just a way for labels and artists to make a profit, but also a fun creative challenge and an opportunity to introduce a new generation to timeless classics. So next time you’re at a club and a familiar tune
