Major Lazer is an American electronic dance music project formed in 2008 by record producer Diplo, along with Jillionaire and Walshy Fire. The group’s music is heavily influenced by Jamaican dancehall and reggae, as well as other genres such as moombahton and trap. Major Lazer has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do,” “Free the Universe,” and “Peace Is the Mission.” They are known for their energetic live performances, featuring elaborate stage setups and dancers.
Major Lazer has collaborated with numerous notable artists, including Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj, and their music has been featured in several films, TV shows, and commercials. The group is also known for their socially conscious lyrics, addressing topics such as politics, inequality, and the environment in their music.
Overall, Major Lazer’s impact on the electronic dance music scene is significant, with their genre-blending sound and dynamic live shows inspiring countless other artists and engaging audiences around the world. They continue to push the boundaries of their music and incorporate new sounds and influences into their work, cementing their place as one of the most innovative and exciting acts in the genre.
#10: “Pon de Floor” feat. Vybz Kartel Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do (2009)
“Pon de Floor” is a dancehall and electro-house song by Major Lazer, released in 2009. The song features a driving beat and heavy bass, with vocals from Vybz Kartel and Afrojack adding to its energetic sound. The lyrics are about dancing and partying, with the song’s infectious chorus encouraging listeners to let loose and move their bodies. “Pon de Floor” became a hit for Major Lazer, known for its high-energy sound and electrifying live performances. The song remains a fan favorite and a popular choice for DJs and dancefloors around the world, showcasing the group’s signature blend of dancehall and electronic music.
#9: “Watch Out for This (Bumaye)” feat. Busy Signal, The Flexican & FS Green Free the Universe (2013)
“Watch Out for This (Bumaye)” is an energetic and upbeat song by electronic music group Major Lazer, featuring vocals from Busy Signal, The Flexican, and FS Green. The song blends elements of reggae, dancehall, and electronic music, creating a unique sound that is both catchy and danceable. The lyrics, which include lines like “Watch out for this, it’s gonna drive you insane,” are repetitive and easy to sing along to, making the song perfect for party environments. Overall, “Watch Out for This (Bumaye)” is a fun and infectious track that showcases Major Lazer’s ability to combine different genres into an exciting and cohesive sound.
#8: ”Be Together” feat. Wild Belle Peace Is the Mission (2015)
“Be Together” is a poignant and soulful song by Major Lazer featuring vocals by Wild Belle. The track is a perfect blend of reggae, pop, and electronic sounds, creating a captivating and emotionally charged experience for the listener. The lyrics evoke feelings of longing, desire, and unity, encouraging listeners to cherish the moments they have with their loved ones and to strive for togetherness. The haunting vocals of Wild Belle, combined with the uplifting beats and rhythms, make “Be Together” an unforgettable anthem for anyone who has ever felt the power of love and connection.
#7: “Jah No Partial” feat. Flux Pavilion Free the Universe (2013)
“Jah No Partial” is a reggae and dancehall song by Major Lazer, released in 2012. The song features vocals from reggae singer Johnny Osbourne, with Diplo’s production adding to its infectious energy. The lyrics are about faith and unity, with the song’s title referencing the Rastafarian belief in Jah, or God. “Jah No Partial” showcases Major Lazer’s signature blend of reggae and electronic music, with its catchy chorus and powerful beat making it a fan favorite. The song remains a staple of the group’s live performances, and its positive message continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
#6: “Hold the Line” feat. Mr. Lexx & Santigold Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do (2009)
“Hold the Line” is a reggae-influenced electronic dance music song by Major Lazer, featuring vocals from Jamaican artist Mr. Lexx and Santigold. The song starts with a rhythmic guitar riff and a driving bassline, which are joined by Mr. Lexx’s melodic vocals. The chorus is catchy and features Santigold’s distinctive voice, adding to the song’s overall infectious energy. The lyrics speak of perseverance in the face of adversity and the need to hold on to one’s beliefs and values. “Hold the Line” is a high-energy track that showcases Major Lazer’s ability to fuse different genres and create a unique and engaging sound.
#5: “Light It Up (Remix)” feat. Nyla & Fuse ODG Peace Is the Mission (2015)
“Light It Up (Remix)” by Major Lazer is an upbeat and energetic dancehall-infused track featuring vocals by Nyla and Fuse ODG. The song is driven by a pulsating beat and a catchy hook that urges the listener to “light it up” and dance the night away. The remix version also features a rap verse by Fuse ODG, adding an extra layer of dynamic energy to the already vibrant track. With its infectious rhythm and celebratory vibe, “Light It Up (Remix)” is the perfect party anthem that will get everyone up and dancing.
#4: “Powerful” feat. Ellie Goulding & Tarrus Riley Peace Is the Mission (2015)
“Powerful” is a pop and reggae-infused ballad by Major Lazer, released in 2015. The song features vocals from Ellie Goulding and Tarrus Riley, with Diplo’s production adding to its emotive power. The lyrics are about love and the strength it gives us, with Goulding and Riley’s vocals blending together beautifully to create a poignant and uplifting atmosphere. “Powerful” showcases Major Lazer’s versatility, with its stripped-down sound and heartfelt lyrics standing out from the group’s more energetic and upbeat tracks. The song remains a fan favorite and a standout moment in Major Lazer’s discography.
#3: “Get Free” feat. Amber Coffman of Dirty Projectors Free the Universe (2013)
“Get Free” is a downtempo, reggae-infused track by Major Lazer, featuring the soulful vocals of Amber Coffman from the band Dirty Projectors. The song’s melancholic guitar riff and Coffman’s emotive delivery create a reflective and introspective mood. The lyrics express a longing for freedom from the constraints of society and personal struggles. The chorus, which repeats the phrase “get free,” is powerful and anthemic, urging listeners to break free from their chains. “Get Free” showcases Major Lazer’s versatility in creating both high-energy dance tracks and introspective, emotional ballads, and stands out as a highlight of their discography.
#2: “Cold Water” feat. Justin Bieber & MØ Music Is the Weapon (2017)
“Cold Water” by Major Lazer featuring Justin Bieber and MØ is a tender and emotional ballad that explores the depths of heartbreak and the healing power of love. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation and sparse production allow the raw emotions of the vocals to shine through. Justin Bieber’s smooth and soulful voice takes center stage in the first verse, with MØ’s delicate and vulnerable vocals providing a beautiful counterpoint. The chorus is an uplifting and anthemic declaration of resilience in the face of heartache. “Cold Water” is a stunning showcase of Major Lazer’s ability to create powerful and emotionally resonant music.
#1: “Lean On” with DJ Snake feat. MØ Peace Is the Mission (2015)
“Lean On” by Major Lazer featuring DJ Snake and MØ is an infectious and upbeat dance-pop track that blends together elements of electronic, Indian, and Jamaican music. The song’s catchy melody, pulsating beat, and MØ’s soulful vocals create an irresistible dance floor anthem. The lyrics are a declaration of unity, urging people to come together and support each other through life’s ups and downs. “Lean On” became a massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and becoming one of the most streamed songs on Spotify. The track’s irresistible energy and universal message have made it a timeless classic.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
