31 Best Techno Songs Of All Time

“Energy Flash” by Joey Beltram

Song Year: 1990

Joey Beltram was only 19 years old when he produced “Energy Flash.” This song helped pave the way for a new, darker techno style and influenced countless artists. Recorded by Belgian label R&S Records in 1990, the song was Beltram’s blockbuster creation.

Heavy, dark, and moody, “Energy Flash” became an instant success, and Derrick May’s label, Transmat Records, even authorized it for US distribution. This tune still sounds modern and fresh three decades later and can easily fit into a contemporary DJ set.

“Levels” by Avicii

Song Year: 2011

“Levels” by Avicii is a progressive techno-house tune released by Universal Music Group on iTunes. The track topped the Swedish Singles charts and many other nations, including Denmark, Austria, Holland, Belgium, the UK, and more. The tune received eight platinum certifications in Sweden, one in the US, and two in Great Britain.

Avicii revealed that he composed the track to incorporate a vocal sample from Etta James’s 1962 gospel-influenced ballad “Something’s Got a Hold on Me.” True to its popularity, the song received numerous nominations and awards, notably a Grammy for the “Song of the Year.”

“Elements” by Carl Craig

Song Year: 1996

“Elements” is a collection of early recordings by techno artist Carl Craig, issued under the aliases Psyche and BFC. The song was released by Planet E Communications, Craig’s Label, and later re-released in 2013. In 2011, the UK magazine, Fact, ranked it among the top 20 ambient albums of all time.

This compilation demonstrates Craig’s introspective, atmospheric approach toward techno, as well as his production capabilities from the early stages in his music career.

“Rave” by Sam Paganini

Song Year: 2014

“Rave” is the 10th single off Sam Paganini’s 2nd studio album “Satellite.” This track was a huge success for Adam Beyer’s label, Drumcode Records, and a crucial release in the club techno trend of the 2010s.

When “Rave” first aired in 2014, it became an instantaneous anthem for techno enthusiasts and DJs. Besides, it also created a path into mainstream charts, with widespread support across the electronic music spectrum. Since its release, the track has garnered over 100M streams, revealing its worldwide appeal and popularity.

“La La Land” by Green Velvet

Song Year: 2001

Nearly two decades ago, Curtis Jones, the creator of “Green Velvet,” says he almost died in a friend’s apartment after suspected alcohol poisoning. In the wake of this, Jones requested God to spare his life and promised he’d turn a new leaf. Soon after, he created what should be considered techno’s most renowned anti-drug tune.

The lyrics on “La La Land” talk about afterparties and pills, featuring a stomping techno beat. It quickly became a club hit and among Jone’s best-sellers. The song featured on the Singles charts in Belgium and the UK.

“Minus” by Robert Hood

Song Year: 1994

A group of Detroit-based artists started developing a new sound in response to the growing tempos and sampled compositions of the early 90s rave culture. This experimentation reduced house and techno to their sound’s fundamental elements, which is well-demonstrated by Robert Hood’s track “Minus.”

This bleepy masterpiece released nearly three decades ago is still one of the most impactful techno tunes ever. Like most other tracks on Hood’s album “Internal Empire,” this song showcased a development to his minimal sound and drifted from his earlier works with Underground Resistance.

“Flash” by Green Velvet

Song Year: 1995

By the time Detroit-based producer Curtis Jones released “Flash,” he had previously released other anthems like 1993’s “Preacher Man.” Most of his previous works featured Dajaé’s potent vocals. Notwithstanding Jones’ popular hook on his club hit “Flash,” ravers worldwide were mesmerized by the song’s mind-boggling stutter and squelch.

Over a solid intro stomp, Green Velvet offers a sarcastic warning nonchalantly. As the song progresses, “Flash” introduces steady effects as Jones urges tourists to record their wild escapades. As a testament to its massive influence, there are numerous remixes of this track by other Chicagoans, including Paul Johnson, DJ Sneak, and Boo Williams.

“Electrica Salsa” by Sven Väth

Song Year: 1986

“Electrica Salsa” track by the music group commonly known as “OFF.” The group featured German singer and DJ Sven Vath, Snap, and producers Luca Anzilotti and Michael Münzing. There’s another rendition of this track on OFF’s follow-up single “Step by Step.”

“Electrica Salsa” is the lead single off the group’s album “Organisation for Fun.” The track’s single version appeared at #4 and 14th on the PWL remix. The song was a top-three banger in several nations, including Germany, France, and Austria.

“Windowlicker” by Aphex Twin

Song Year: 1999

“Windowlicker” is a single by UK recording artist Aphex Twin, produced by Warp Records. Chris Cunningham designed the song’s artwork with assistance from The Designers Republic. Cunningham also produced the track’s music video, which was later shortlisted for the “Best Brit Video.”

The tune peaked at #16 on the British Singles chart. Fans later selected Warp Records’ most prominent track for the Warp20 compilation released in 2009. Pitchfork also ranked “Windowlicker” #12 in selecting the “Best 200 Songs of the 1990s.”

“Ghetto Kraviz” by Nina Kraviz

Song Year: 2012

Nina Kraviz’s self-titled 2nd album was one of the highly anticipated records that year, following the success of her debut album “I’m Week.” “Ghetto Kraviz” is the 2nd tune of the 2nd track on the album. It features a blend of pure techno music, which borrows heavily from the Chicago electronic sound and modest elements, distinct vocals, and a slow jam.

The song is evocative, captivating, totally original, and inspiring. Nina’s innocent and wistful vocals, subdued acid notes, and mesmerizing loops softly draw you into her universe.