Calvin Harris is a Scottish DJ, record producer, and songwriter who has made a significant impact on the world of dance and electronic music. Over the course of his career, Harris has released numerous chart-topping singles and albums, collaborating with some of the biggest names in pop music. With his infectious beats, catchy hooks, and undeniable talent for creating hit after hit, Harris has become one of the most successful and influential producers of our time. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 best Calvin Harris songs of all time, exploring the highlights of his illustrious career and delving into the reasons why these tracks continue to captivate audiences around the world. From the high-energy dance anthems to the emotional ballads, these songs showcase the many sides of Calvin Harris’s artistry, proving that he truly is a master of his craft. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, this list is sure to inspire and excite, highlighting the very best of what Calvin Harris has to offer.
1. Summer
“Summer” is an electrifying EDM track by Scottish DJ and producer Calvin Harris, released in 2014. The song features a pulsating beat, catchy synth riffs, and Harris’s own smooth vocals. The lyrics evoke the carefree spirit of summertime, with Harris singing about falling in love during the season and reminiscing about past summers. The song’s chorus is an infectious earworm that will have listeners singing along and dancing in no time. With its upbeat tempo and lively energy, “Summer” is the perfect anthem for any warm-weather gathering or party.
2. This Is What You Came For (featuring Rihanna)
“This Is What You Came For” is a collaboration between Calvin Harris and pop superstar Rihanna, released in 2016. The song is a catchy, upbeat dance-pop track that showcases both artists’ talents. Harris’s production features a driving beat, pulsating synths, and a catchy melody that perfectly complements Rihanna’s powerful vocals. The lyrics speak to the idea of surrendering oneself to love and allowing oneself to be swept away in the moment. The chorus is a sing-along earworm that will have listeners dancing and singing along in no time. The music video for the song is a stunning visual feast, with neon lights, choreographed dancing, and Rihanna’s captivating performance. “This Is What You Came For” is a modern pop classic that showcases both Calvin Harris and Rihanna at their best, and is a must-listen for fans of upbeat, energetic pop music.
3. We Found Love (featuring Rihanna)
“We Found Love” is a dance-pop hit by Calvin Harris, featuring pop superstar Rihanna on vocals. The song was released in 2011 and quickly became a global sensation, topping charts around the world. The song’s energetic beat and catchy synth melody provide the perfect backdrop for Rihanna’s powerhouse vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a couple falling in love despite the odds, and the music video features the two stars engaging in a tumultuous, passionate relationship. “We Found Love” is a classic example of Harris’s ability to create infectious dance-pop hits that capture the zeitgeist of a moment.
4. Slide (featuring Frank Ocean and Migos)
“Slide” is a smooth, funky collaboration between Calvin Harris, Frank Ocean, and Migos. The song was released in 2017 and features a groovy bassline, catchy synth riffs, and Frank Ocean’s soulful vocals. Migos adds a rap verse that perfectly complements the laid-back vibe of the song. The lyrics speak to the joys of carefree living and enjoying life in the moment. The music video features a colorful, retro aesthetic that perfectly captures the song’s retro-funk sound. “Slide” is a refreshing departure from Harris’s usual high-energy dance-pop, and showcases his versatility as a producer.
5. How Deep Is Your Love (featuring Disciples)
“How Deep Is Your Love” is a deep house track by Calvin Harris, featuring production duo Disciples. The song was released in 2015 and features a pulsing beat, atmospheric synths, and soulful vocals. The lyrics speak to the idea of a love that transcends physical attraction and delves into deeper emotional connections. The music video features Harris and Disciples performing the song in a club, with colorful lights and a mesmerizing visual aesthetic. “How Deep Is Your Love” showcases Harris’s ability to create a more understated, atmospheric sound, and is a standout track in his discography.
6. One Kiss (featuring Dua Lipa)
“One Kiss” is an infectious dance-pop collaboration between Calvin Harris and British singer Dua Lipa. The song was released in 2018 and features a bouncy, groovy beat, catchy synth riffs, and Lipa’s sultry vocals. The lyrics speak to the thrill of falling in love and losing oneself in the moment. The music video features Harris and Lipa dancing in a club, with colorful lights and a retro aesthetic. “One Kiss” is a perfect example of Harris’s ability to create upbeat, energetic dance-pop hits that are impossible not to dance to.
7. Feels (featuring Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, and Big Sean)
“Feels” is a funky, summery collaboration between Calvin Harris, Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, and Big Sean. The song was released in 2017 and features a catchy guitar riff, groovy bassline, and infectious beat. The four artists take turns singing verses, with Perry’s vocals providing the perfect complement to the song’s carefree vibe. The lyrics speak to the pleasures of summer love and enjoying life in the moment. The music video features the four artists in a psychedelic, tropical paradise, with vibrant colors and playful visuals. “Feels” is a standout track in Harris’s discography, showcasing his ability to create irresistible, feel-good pop hits.
8. Sweet Nothing (featuring Florence Welch)
“Sweet Nothing” is a high-energy dance track by Calvin Harris, featuring the powerful vocals of Florence Welch from the band Florence + The Machine. The song was released in 2012 and features a driving beat, pulsing synths, and Welch’s emotive vocals. The lyrics speak to the pain of a loveless relationship and the desperation to feel something, anything. The music video features Welch performing the song in a dingy club, with Harris playing the role of a frustrated bartender. “Sweet Nothing” is a powerful, emotionally charged track that showcases Harris’s ability to create electrifying dance-pop hits with substance.
9. I Need Your Love (featuring Ellie Goulding)
“I Need Your Love” is a catchy dance-pop hit by Calvin Harris, featuring British singer Ellie Goulding on vocals. The song was released in 2013 and features a pulsing beat, bouncy synth riffs, and Goulding’s angelic vocals. The lyrics speak to the powerful feeling of being in love and the desperate need for that person’s affection. The music video features Harris and Goulding in a passionate, tumultuous relationship, with stunning visuals and a romantic atmosphere. “I Need Your Love” is a perfect example of Harris’s ability to create pop hits that are both catchy and emotional.
10. Feel So Close
“Feel So Close” is an uplifting dance-pop anthem by Calvin Harris, released in 2011. The song features a euphoric beat, soaring synths, and Harris’s own vocals. The lyrics speak to the feeling of being close to someone and losing oneself in the moment. The music video features Harris performing the song in a colorful, lively party atmosphere. “Feel So Close” is a classic example of Harris’s ability to create high-energy dance-pop hits that are impossible not to move to. The song’s infectious beat and euphoric melody have made it a staple of dancefloors around the world, and it remains one of Harris’s most popular tracks.
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