2022 was another wild year. Two of the world’s biggest artists experimented with electronic music, we had the pleasure of seeing countless underground talents get major breaks, discovered new favourites, and so much more. As the year draws to a close it’s time for us to countdown our Top 50 Songs of 2022. Carefully curated by our team, the list aims to balance overall impact, popularity, DJ support, the creativity and groundbreaking nature of a release, and quality. Dive in below.
50. Von Storm – Get Dumb
2022 was a breakout year for phonk. The genre has been making waves for years but between drift phonk blowing up on TikTok and a slew of originators playing massive shows across the US, the genre explored new heights. Helping to shape and drive the wave with his own releases and HOLY MOB, Von Storm elevated his status as of one phonk’s finest. ‘Get Dumb’ shows off his style, mixing addictive and simplistic vocal loops, stunning vocal bends, sunset-drenched keys, and that signature knock. This is the perfect embodiment of the vibey laidback-meets-slapping sound that makes phonk so enjoyable.
-CV
49. Deadcrow – Mainframe
If there was a Spotify Wrapped for the flight taken by artists during 2022, I’d be very interested to see Deadcrow’s. In what was his most prolific years in terms of live shows, the Dutch producer also had time to release some memorable songs. The title track of his debut EP on Pilot, ‘Mainframe’ distills all of Deadcrow’s influences into a single formula. The way he masterfully fused together wave, dubstep, and hardstyle put ‘Mainframe’ in a league of its own.
– AA
48. Beyoncé – BREAK MY SOUL
While dance music fans might not have named Renaissance their album of the year, Beyoncé’s impact on the music industry as a whole is undeniable. The debut single from the record, ‘BREAK MY SOUL’ is an anthem that both encompasses the essence of dance music’s history and embodies the route to self-empowerment we all needed after an extremely tough three years.
-AL
47. dope – Mild Drugs
Don’t let the title fool you, dope’s ‘Mild Drugs’ is extremely potent. Expertly crafted, this dark bass anthem fuses bouncy-meets-brutal synths with trippy vocals, rumbling bass, and an undeniable hip-hop swagger. Combining cinematic sounds with such a brutish banger is seldom seen, while the progression uncovers the duo’s exceptional talent. This was an underground anthem from one of bass music’s most underrated gems.
-CV
46. W IN K – FEEL IT TOO
The amount of support and love for W IN K’s art has skyrocketed throughout 2022. The madness behind his production has taken him down a glistening path of passion and perseverance. Starting from creating heavy dubstep, to transitioning into the electronic trap realm, his abilities were truly tested in the highest of ways, but his work has come out on top. And ‘FEEL IT TOO’ is a prime example of what we mean. Throwing any expectations out the window due to a change in sound design, rhythmic structure, and overall vision. Birthing a whole new side to his project while keeping those signature qualities close to heart! The percussion leads which take up the spotlight strikes hard and with pure might to any listener. The crisp and raw detail sprinkled throughout really puts a smile on your face. Making this a massive hit for those big stages around the world. Even Joji dropped it during his performance at Head in the Clouds earlier this year. Definitely keep an eye out for this artist in the new year. You won’t regret it!
-JD
45. Chris Lorenzo, COBRAH – MAMI
A house signature and highly anticipated track which ignited a spark throughout the music community as the don Chris Lorenzo teased his collaboration with COBRAH on ‘MAMI’ during EDC 2022 in the early morning. The Twitter engagement was at an all-time high as videos were shared by fans requesting the ID and for Lorenzo to bless them with a track that only continues to get filthier throughout the bassline. With pure attention to sound design and a vocal melody which will entice you from the start, Lorenzo and COBRAH crafted an immediate dance-floor heater that never gets old.
-AK
44. Eprom – Facebang (Acid Mix)
The announcement of a new collaborative project between Eprom and G Jones has been the cause of one of the meltdowns the bass music community went through this year. On the other hand, with a precedent like ‘Daemon Veil’ it couldn’t be otherwise. While Acid Disk 2 in its entirety fails to hold its ground, ‘Facebang (Acid Mix)’ shines as one of the craziest and most challenging releases of the year. The combination of Eprom’s insane deconstructed fantasies and 90’s acid rave-inspired sounds is something we didn’t know we needed.
-AA
43. EASTGHOST – Only One
EASTGHOST’s style has traveled through many dimensions while displaying adoration for those heart-wrenching melodic attributes. Making his work unique and unpredictable to the ear. And with his massive debut on Sable Valley, ‘Only One’ does nothing but tender the hearts of the broken and lost. Whisking listeners off their feet with self-love and powerful production techniques. Showcasing how powerful and flexible his work flow can be. His take on the wave genre really blows you away. From gritty bass lines, and an intoxicating vocal sample, to those colorful arps fluttering through your minds, it’s a gentle yet impactful ride through the eye of a storm.
-JD
42. CAB – Thermal
From multiple label team-ups, high energy self-releases, and even a guest mix with us here at FUX, CAB has shown pure loyalty to the arts throughout this year. Having many eyes locked onto him and his work time and time again. And ‘Thermal’ being released with the Alter/Ego label was definitely a groundbreaking step for his career. Showcasing raw and organic love for that classic trap sound from beginning to end. Taking you back to the origins while displaying heavier techniques in his own signature fashion. Making this a massive weapon for any stage or environment around the world. Ear striking drums, fun charismatic sample selection you name it! It’ll be included in this wild ride.
-JD
41. Rickyxsan x Hydraulix – ZONED
Being nearly two years since his last release, fans were dying for Rickyxsan to return to the spotlight. Building high amounts of anticipation from all over. Waiting for the perfect moment. And then, the time had finally come for his hard work to be showcased back into the world. Creating senses of inspiration and empowerment through signature sound design and out-of-the-box creativity. Together with his good friend Hydraulix, ‘ZONED’ was put out as his first single back. Honoring their bond as artists while letting fans know he’s far from done. From mind-shattering bass leads, violent drum creations, and of course their classic bounce rhythmic structures, it truly pays homage to the evolution they’ve both gone through over the years. Sending listeners into a hypnotic trance into the unknown. On top of that, he decided to debut his brand new record label, Sonic Trip! A new home for his work to be displayed in the future. Making this a monumental comeback for his journey.
-JD
40. Ninajirachi – Start Small
Years go by, but Ninajirachi (she’s just 23 years old) remains of the most incredible and unique artists in the game. Her fantasy when it comes to productions doesn’t seem to have an end while her technical skills are constantly improving, alongside her awareness of herself. Thanks to its growing influence, what years ago would’ve been music relegated to some small niche on the web, it’s now finding its way to festivals. ‘Start Small’ is just one of the many faces of Ninajirachi’s music that can be found on her debut mixtape Second Nature, but its unconventional and unapologetic energy has been unmatched this year.
-AA
39. ISOxo x frosttop – Angel’s Landing
The history between these two friends is simply astounding. Sharing their own stories through dynamic productions while building an ongoing legacy within their journeys as artists. ‘Angel’s Landing’ is by far an absolute staple for their friendship. Debuting during their performances, fans from all over were ecstatic for this release. These icons truly went all out on this work of art. Showcasing tremendous heart, energy, and perseverance from beginning to end. From a cinematic atmosphere, angelic vocal samples, to their breathtaking violent leads, it’s a one-way trip to a far-distant utopia of rebirth. Making this one of the biggest and most memorable tunes of 2022.
-JD
38. msft x VARI – crash test
Both msft and VARI are such powerhouses when it comes to creativity and production styles. Their unpredictable nature flourishes within their pieces. Complimenting their stories in such a colorful and bright fashion. Making them stand out amongst the rest. Owning their purpose with pride and confidence. ‘crash test’ was an unexpected surprise for both fanbases. Knocking any expectation out of the park with monstrous and chaotic bass designs. Combined with fast-paced drum work and sample selection makes this an absolute anthem for the dance floors. Making any listener have an out-of-body experience from beginning to end. Honoring their friendship in the best ways possible.
-JD
37. Wax Motif, Matroda – La Candela Viva
What happens when two revolutionizing house music connoisseurs join forces to take full control of the dancefloor? Pure rhythmic groove and reverberating basslines are what Wax Motif and Matroda have proven with the release of their energetic collaboration ‘La Candela Viva.’ A track that continues to be rinsed at festivals and clubs across the world, the amount of energy and mesmerizing soundscapes within the collaboration make it a real crowd-pleaser no matter what time of the day it is. As both artists have become globally recognized for their distinctive sound within the house scene, it only made sense for these two to push their sounds forward by absolutely killing the game in 2022 with this release.
-AK
36. PinkPantheress & Sam Gellaitry – Picture In My Mind
First pinkpantheress song on the list! I’ll be honest, I thought this collaboration between her and Sam Gellaitry would only exists in one’s wildest dreams. Instead, we’ve been blessed with ‘Picture in Mind’,,which is not only one of the best but also probably the catchiest songs of the year. I don’t know you, but I can see myself singing “I knew this all along, I had a picture in my mind, so please don’t try and call my bluff,” in a loop for many many years to come. The same goes for the bass. I’d dance forever over this Sam G’s disco-meets-hyperpop-meets-bounce invention. This is what pop at its finest sounds like.
-AA
35. JAWNS – Body Breaker
JAWNS has undeniably shown his true strengths and powerful passions throughout this year. And becoming a family member of Deadbeats was nothing but an iconic step up for his project. ‘Body Breaker’ off his Last Resort EP features everything you’ve come to know and love about the artist and more. From piercing acid leads, to weaponized drum creations, this single honors the history of his project while complimenting the Deadbeats label in a whole new light. Making this his biggest single of the year. Amping up his creativity while showcasing the constant state of evolution throughout his discography.
-JD
34. Buunshin – Farewell
Buunshin’s longest, most personal project to date came to life through the first single, ‘Farewell.’ Equally dark and cold as it is uplifting and warm, the artist had a monumental year of originals, collaborations, live shows and more, all encompassed in the journey that is ‘Farewell.’ Demonstrating vulnerability while staying true to his rugged style, the track served as a new chapter to Buunshin’s musical output, and we look forward to following him along his sonic voyage.
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33. Cordae (ft. Lil Wayne) – Sinister
If you’ve been following FUXWITHIT over the last couple of years, you won’t be surprised to know that Cordae remains among our favourite rappers in the game. His lyrics, flow, and overall swagger are unmatched, and From a Birds Eye View solidified the fact that The Lost Boy was not just a one-off fluke. Despite its 2021 release, ‘Sinister’ with Lil Wayne was too late to make our list last year, but the combination of the high-profile collaboration, clever bars, and seamless flow was a no-brainer for our Top 50.
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32. Capshun x Juelz – Fallen
Capshun & Juelz. Just seeing their names side by side is assured to elicit a strong sense of excitement from underground electronic fans. Serving as the standout single off capshun’s stellar LOGOS EP, ‘Fallen’ set the bar for what was to follow and gave fans the dream collab they’d been waiting for. Everything about this track is meticulously crafted. From the emotive introduction to the pulse-raising builds, and delectable drops, there’s a timeless presence throughout. Effortlessly intertwining their styles, ‘Fallen’ met and exceeded the incredible expectations from the pair.
-CV
31. Dom Dolla – Miracle Maker
Exploring new boundaries comes naturally to Australian-born producer Dom Dolla. Welcoming his global audience into his world of enhanced sound design and catchy vocal melodies, Dom Dolla’s ‘Miracle Maker’ has proven to get the entire crowd moving during his sold-out headline shows across Australia, North America, the United Kingdom, and Europe. Injecting his listeners with their daily prescription of house music, ‘Miracle Maker’ is a crowd favourite as those contagious basslines and classic vocal signatures will keep you bumping all night long. A sound so sweet to the ears, Dom Dolla has crafted a house anthem for the books.
-AK
30. IMANU & KUČKA – It’s Our Destiny
‘It’s Our Destiny’ had the pivotal role of setting the tone for IMANU’s debut album Unfold. Once again, the Dutchman delivered. With its being a quintessential future bass ballad, ‘It’s Our Destiny’ can hardly be defined as the most representative track off Unfold. However, it totally succeeded in making us approach IMANU’s musical journey this year with the right mindset. Let’s be honest, with KUČKA ‘s extraordinary voice combined with IMANU’s top-tier technical skills, what could have gone wrong? More from IMANU down in the list!
-AA
29. Pocket – Heartbreak Engineering
We’ve been following Pocket since the dawn of the project and his artistic evolution and ability to remain true to himself is nothing short of admirable. Having carved a sound that beautifully combines British and North American influences, the Scottish artist never ceases to impress. ‘Heartbreak Engineering’ was undoubtedly his biggest tune of the year, and with the promise of more to come soon, don’t be surprised to see Pocket on this list for years to come.
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28. Grip – Dirty Work
Grip brought back the feeling of street singles with ‘Dirty Work.’ The hook is catchy yet gritty while the production is the perfect backdrop for him to unload bars. And that’s exactly what he does. The verses are a clinic in lyricism, while his flows swerve from pocket to pocket with the ease of a certified vet. While other rappers are working on their TikTok dances and social strategies, Grip is sharpening his pencil and making a charge for the throne. Just peep the bars below and tell me this isn’t one of best tracks of 2022.
“Enough debatin’, want me on a track? To me, that’s supper waitin’/The flow is suffocatin’, somebody resuscitate him/Way I cook on the hook and the verse, I need a fuckin’ apron/All of you boys get put into hearses, sendin’ ’em up to Satan/ Oops, I mean sendin’ ’em up to Jesus, leavin’ ’em cut in pieces/ Here to disrupt your thesis, thinkin’ “GRIP not a hip-hop GOAT”/Must don’t know what time it is, guess his wristwatch broke” – Grip
-CV
27. ELK, Chris Dogzout & UZ – Pressure (Feat. SoloSam)
Elk & Dogzout’s collaborative Lodestone EP is one of the year’s most underrated gems. Released on Quality Goods Records, their chemistry and future beats-meets-trap-meets-rap signature is everything that we want right now. Add in UZ and SoloSam and you knew before you hit play that ‘Pressure’ was an anthem. You can practically feel the breeze off the laidback beat, providing the knocking foundation for SoloSam’s distinct signature voice. A true hustling anthem, it’s approachable, addictive, and familiar yet fresh. Stellar remixes from BACKWHEN, Andre Palace, and Robu (to name a few) only served to elevate its allure. This was a staple in sets, playlists, and FUXWITHIT guest mixes… as it should be.
-CV
26. Kenny Beats – Parenthesis
The sonic story of Kenny Beats continues to write itself in crisp and emotional ink. Throughout the years, Kenny has built a complete empire of talent, variety, and perseverance. Collaborating with powerful musicians while sharing beautiful memories and respect all around. Making this artist project his own. Representing his true identity within the frequency spectrum through timeless productions and ongoing chapters of hard work. ‘Parenthesis’ off his solo album Louie is one of the biggest reasons why he’s gotten to where he is today. From classic soul-filled sample selections, organic instrumentation, and the soul of a legend that surrounds it all, this piece tells so much in only a couple of minutes. Honoring his father and his legacy while continuing to build his with every given melody and rhythmic structure. This piece dives right into the ambition of the overall album with fierce ambition and emotional purpose. Making this a safe haven for all his listeners.
-JD
25. camoufly – Told U So
If you’re a reader of FUXWITHIT and you haven’t had your Twitter feed literally overrun by camoufly and his ‘Told u So’ teaser, know that you’re a rare exception. No promotional campaign from an independent artist has ever been altogether so long, fun, exasperating, infectious, widespread, and successful. Even if sometimes it is regarded as just a meme, we don’t have to forget that ‘Told U So’ is one hell of a track. It took me months to get into it, but since it finally clicked, I can’t stay too long without that bouncy bassline and that diabolical vocal chops.
-AA
24. Skrillex, Noisia, Thys, Sleepnet – Horizon
It was nearly impossible to pick a single track from Closer, Noisia’s third and final album. Each represents a unique facet to the unmatched influence that Noisia have had in electronic music. Nonetheless, ‘Horizon’ felt like the right pick for this list, as it combines Skrillex’s unparalleled touch with what fans can expect from the future of Noisia, singling out Thys and Sleepnet as additional collaborators. Aside from being the most streamed track on the album, ‘Horizon’ is also among the most involved, spanning more than five minutes and showcasing raw emotion that is rare from the kings of bass.
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23. The Blessed Madonna – Serotonin Moonbeams
The Blessed Madonna’s ‘Serotonin Moonbeams’ had been played out on festival stages all year long before finally releasing on November 11, which is why it’s ranking so high on this list. The single is the producer’s first original in five years, and they even enlisted pop icon Uffie for the vocals on the track. What makes it so special is that it reminds us about the best part of loving dance music: the euphoric feeling you get when you get to experience it live, and with the people you love.
-AL
22. Leotrix – FUNNYFACE
Another year, another inclusion from Leotrix. Despite slowing down on releases compared to the previous calendar year, the Australian artist finally broke into the international touring circuit this year, and ‘FUNNYFACE’ has been an undeniable staple in his sets. From a highly-anticipated ID to becoming a regular in bass sets, the track embodies Leotrix’s future riddim style that he has championed unlike any other. Leotrix is a legend in the making.
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21. RemK – R U READY!
The sun continues to shine brighter than a star whenever RemK hits the stage or releases a song. Showing constant evolution through his earth-shattering productions and energy. ‘R U READY!’ was complete proof of how hard he’s been working at his craft. Throwing the audience off guard with such hard-hitting sound design and addictive structure overall. Inspiring many up-and-coming producers to remix or flip the track in the end. Making this his biggest hit of the year as well as a staple for his artist identity. The energy just elevates whenever you hear this piece coming within his performances. Letting everyone know it’s going to get wild and crazy. RemK’s talents never ceases to amaze along with his adaptable persona throughout production.
-JD
20. Space Laces & Watch – Not Bees
The release of the High Vaultage EP shook the bass scene to its core, reminding everyone that Space Laces is in a league of his own. No other bass artist can sit on a tune for a decade and still have it sound fresh and exciting upon its release. The most impressive part of the project though was Space Laces’ ability to single-handedly make electro cool again. From its quirky sampling to its unparalleled energy, ‘Not Bees’ is the epitome of the legend’s production mastery, showcasing his defiance of genres and unmatched versatility. NOT THE BEES!
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19. Knock2 – Gettin’ Hot
No tech-house track could hold its ground against Knock2 ‘Gettin Hot’s bassline this year. Perfectly mirroring his live sets, the track is a concentration of pure raw energy. It’s an untamed beast and if you were at, or you’ve seen the recording of one of his ROOM202 shows you know exactly what I’m talking about. Giving his boundless talent, Knock2’s flamboyant moment was far from being a surprise (both as soloist and alongside ISOxo with their ISOKNOCK 3 spin off) and ‘Gettin Hot’ is just one of the proof that confirms it. Simply 2022’s finest dancefloor weapon.
-AA
18. Ray Volpe – Laserbeam
This year was by far one of Ray Volpe’s biggest and most successful. With the release of ‘LASERBEAM’ off his LEGEND OF THE VOLPETRON EP, the song completely blew up into the stratosphere. Inspiring countless amounts of remixes, edits, and overall support. From being praised on SoundCloud, to many artists supporting within their performances at shows and festivals, the song has become a true staple for Ray’s career. Hard-hitting sound design combined with catchy melodies and the signature vocal sample honoring the title, this piece will no doubt live on throughout the years as a classic for the bass music scene.
-JD
17. ISOxo – REDloop
Despite being released in May, ‘REDloop’ was the most Halloween-ready trap anthems of the last years. From the haunting intro, the gargantuan first and third trap drops, the epic stadium-friendly breakdown, and the mischievous, surprise techno-drop, everything in this track, front to back, was perfectly engineered by ISOxo to be epic. Is anyone still saying that trap is dead?
-AA
16. pinkpantheress (feat. WILLOW) – Where you are
The flexibility within the talents of pinkpantheress is nothing but powerful. Her fluent abilities have helped her pave a strong and angelic path of riches throughout the industry. Touching the hearts and souls of many while always delivering fresh new pieces. Experimenting with different genres which makes her style completely unpredictable. Her collaboration with WILLOW called ‘Where you are’ is yet another hit for both of their discographies. From crisp addictive production to soft hypnotic vocals swirling throughout, it’s a piece that makes you feel free and not alone. And when WILLOW hits the spotlight with her strong range of frequencies, it knocks you back in your seat. Making listeners fall into a trance of rebirth. A powerful single to honor their hard work and bond.
-JD
15. Pusha T – Diet Coke
Earlier this year, Pusha T likened himself to Martin Scorcese of street rap and the comparison is hard to deny. Pusha’s cinematic and raw raps have made him the king of coke rap. While many artists have opted to broaden their subject matter in hopes of greater relatability, Pusha has continued to zero in on his signature, sharpening his skills and raising the bar within his niche. It’s Almost Dry shunned the status quo of bloated (20+ track) rap projects and instead delivered a tight and focused 12 cuts that combine for arguably the best album of 2022. ‘Diet Coke’ embodies the thematic tones, effortless flows, and vivid imagery that make it so special. Two decades in and Pusha T is still finding ways to outdo himself. From the Fat Joe “Crack” samples to the verses, this is uncut dope.
-CV
14. G Jones – Operator
2022 will be remembered as the year ‘Operator’ was finally released. After being rinsed for the first time in 2020, as part of the iconic REMOTE TRANSMISSION mix, ‘Operator’ had quickly become a fan favourite. In a year when the American producer has been unusually prolific, ‘Operator’ stands out as his 2022’s definitive composition and one of the most mind-blowing releases in the past 365 days. If you’re reading this list you already know what the drill with G Jones is. Production wizardries, out-of-this-world emotions, groundbreaking sound design. This might be the normality in G Jones’s world but not for the rest of us humans. When he drops music it’s always a mental experience that no one else can top.
-AA
13. Stormzy – Mel Made Me Do It
Stormzy’s return to the limelight came in the form of a seven-minute, no holds barred onslaught. ‘Mel Made Me Do It’ is a flex, it’s a reminder of Stormzy’s greatness, it’s a jab at his haters, and a thank you to his fans. The track is exactly what long-time Stormzy fans have been awaiting, and he delivered it with ease. Aside from championing grime, the artist also chose to empower a plethora of creators with the incredible music video that accompanies the track, further showcasing that he isn’t self-interested like others in the game. Stormzy is about passion, about art, and about bringing up friends. We stand for that.
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12. Vince Staples – MAGIC (feat. Mustard)
Following his impressive self-titled project in 2021, Vince wanted to come back harder than ever before with the follow-up. Switching up styles in multiple fashions while staying true to his own beliefs within the sonic spectrum. And together with Mustard, ‘MAGIC’ was born. The first single off his newest LP threw listeners into a loop of hypnotic energy. Soul-filled lyrics combined with Mustard’s impactful production showcased how well these two bond over the arts. Creating an out-of-body experience from beginning to end. Proving yet again how powerful these artists are throughout the industry. Crafting timeless flows and paving their own paths for success. Making this track truly worthy for any top-tier list this year.
-JD
11. TroyBoi – Carti
A true mastermind who consistently defines his own unique sound, it is safe to say TroyBoi is a legend in the scene with his dedication to delivering all the right vibes both on and off the dancefloor. Releasing banger after banger, ‘Carti’ is a tune which will provide you the opportunity to relive summer once again. Starting off with a slow tempo groove and classic vocals to bump the speakers to. The track has an original sound drawing in rolling chord loops, and will immediately bring out the best in you. At a minimal effort, TroyBoi incorporates monotone vocals leaving listeners with a hip-hop feel alongside a trap-infused beat. Troy never disappoints and that is a fact in the industry.
-AK
10. LYNY x Chromonicci – Want
A true king of experimental sound when it comes down to trap and bass music, LYNY is the one we trust to take us into another dimension. Whether it be throwing down this year at Electric Forest or rinsing out his ID’s at shows around North America, LYNY has quickly risen to the top and we could not be happier with the outcome. Teaming up with fellow FUXWITHIT favourite Chromonicci to bring back that slow-tempo trap we all need in our lives, ‘Want’ is an addictive collaboration right from the very first listen. Released on our very own FUXWITHIT Records, elements of distortion and hypnotizing loops lure listeners into LYNY and Chromonicci’s world of innovative trap music. Only continuing to get filthier as the tune progresses, this one is definitely a favourite in 2022 as these artists continue to dominate.
-AK
9. Ice Spice – Munch
“You thought I was feeling you?” These are the six words that nobody could stop saying in 2022. Drill has been inescapable in the rap scene this year, and as sample-based music lovers, we’re not complaining. “Munch” went from being huge in New York City (Ice Spice is Bronx-based), to the internet, to the rest of the world, landing the new artist cover stories before she could even release a full-length project. Haters will deny Ice Spice’s influence, but she’s taking her rightful place with the ninth spot on our top 50 list this year.
-AL
8. IMANU x The Caracal Project – Neiges
There is no denying that IMANU had a breakout year. Across the board, few, if any, have risen the ranks as quickly as he has in 2022. With an extensive discography that spans multiple genres, it was difficult to pick a single Top 10 track for the artist this year – so I picked my top Spotify track of the year. Joking aside, we felt The Caracal Project also deserved a top spot in this list, as he had an equally impressive year. ‘Neiges’ kicked off both of their 2022 campaigns in style, showcasing their quintessential drum and bass sound through flawless chemistry. Layered with emotion, ‘Neiges’ (and ‘La Fournaise’) primed IMANU and The Caracal Project for the incredible year that followed.
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7. Benny The Butcher x J. Cole – Johnny P’s Caddy
Benny The Butcher and J. Cole was the collab we didn’t know we needed. With no hook and soulful boom-bap beat from Alchemist and DJ Khalil, ‘Johnny P’s Caddy’ provides the canvas for top-tier rap. Benny The Butcher delivers a fierce verse, chartering his street days, hustle, and work ethic. It’s gritty, honest, and inspiring, everything fans have come to enjoy from The Butcher. As Cole repeats Benny’s closing the line (“Bout time that I got my respect, it’s the Butcher…”) you can practically hear him loading up the lyrical artillery. Cole claims rappers wanting him on their song “gon’ see the wrath of the reaper,” and proceeds to prove it by dropping the verse of the year. From the wordplay to the flow J. Cole puts it best, “Stretchin’ the truth, know I never stress in the booth/They feel the pressure, me I feel like I just left the masseuse/Effortless, how I’m skatin’ on these records is proof/ I put your favorite rapper neck in a noose, never lettin’ them loose.” It seems so easy, but that only makes it more impressive. Add in bars like “I’m prolly gon’ go to Hell if Jesus ask for a feature/I’m higher than n*ggas and don’t need a bag full of reefer/Some see the glass as empty, I see a glass full of ether/ Collectin’ his bread en masse like he a Catholic preacher/ Just to count a n*gga cash, you might need a calculus teacher/Eureka, Einstein on the brink of the theory of relativity,” and it’s hard to argue with his claims as “the best rapper alive.”
-CV
6. Hudson Mohawke – Bicstan
Hudson Mohawke’s return to the album format was among the most impressive journeys in electronic music this calendar year. As the first single from Cry Sugar, ‘Bicstan’ laid the foundation for the incredible project that followed, where HudMo dove deep into his rave-loving self to showcase a style that few can mimic. Acid house, happy hardcore, breaks, and beyond ooze in their own different ways throughout ‘Bicstan,’ attesting to the legend’s ability to create his own unique sonic world within a project, and within a song. ‘Bicstan’ embodies the essence of Cry Sugar to a tee, and reminds us that greatness is not defined by the number of streams, but by the ability to create something totally unprecedented when the world often expects conformity.
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5. Kendrick Lamar – N95
2022 finally saw Kendrick Lamar’s highly-anticipated comeback with Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. After years of anticipation, K. Dot returned with a complex, polarizing, and hotly-debated work of art. ‘N95’ instantly stood out with its in-your-face energy, critical lyrics, ill production, and visually striking music video. Clocking nearly 200 million streams to date, ‘N95’ struck a chord with fans, providing an anthemic feel without sacrificing the lyricism. The track serves as a time capsule of the past few years with Kendrick highlighting everything from the pandemic and market crash, to cancel culture, clout chasing, toxic friendships, distaste for critics, artists selling their souls, and beyond. Kendrick set the internet on fire with the album and ‘N95’ particularly. This shit is hard.
-CV
4. Flume – Say Nothing (Feat. MAY-A)
Flume has made a signature of crafting innovative anthems anchored by stellar vocal features. Connecting with MAY-A, the pair proves the power of the formula in ‘Say Nothing’. MAY-A’s voice captures every tinge of emotion imbued by the lyrics. It’s the perfect fusion of addictive and emotive, pulling at your heartstrings while commanding repeat listens and singalongs. While the vocals serve as the focal point, this is Flume, after all, so the production is masterful. In a sense it’s understated, but it’s the subtleties and progression that make it special. The backdrop rises and falls with the vocals, building, releasing, and amplifying every turn. This one was getting plays everywhere from massive festivals to outdoor events, and Spotify streams. Add in an impeccable house remix from Tchami, and this was one of the best electronic tracks of the year.
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3. Drake – Sticky
Honestly, Nevermind. While Drake’s foray into electronic music was met with mixed results, ‘Sticky’ stuck out (sorry) as an undeniable anthem. Leaning heavily on Baltimore club influence, the thumping kicks and deep bass provided the perfect pocket for Drizzy to explore. While the lyrics charter familiar territory for the 6 God, that didn’t make it any less enjoyable. From showing crew love with, “They only givin’ n*ggas plus ones, so I never pull up to the Met” to smirk-inducing flexes, “You say I changed, I say that I millioned, I did,” it’s exactly what we expect from another Drake smash. Reflecting on the biggest cuts of the year, it’s hard to ignore ‘Sticky.’ The track dominated the summer bumping out of car windows, DJ sets, and did an easy 126 million streams on Spotify alone. Add in the fact that it helped shine a greater light on Baltimore and Jersey club music across the industry, and this is an easy selection for our top 3.
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2. Hamdi – Skanka
We know, ‘Skanka’ was released in 2021, but it came out after our 2021 list was released. And aside from that, the dominance of ‘Skanka’ really came to fruition in 2022. One would be hard-pressed to go to a show and not hear the track. It wasn’t just at dubstep shows, either. From tech house shows, to techno shows, to bass shows and beyond, everybody talked about how they loved hearing ‘Skanka’ live (or that they couldn’t escape it wherever they went). The 140 BPM cut catapulted the artist to stardom, while also giving a fresh new life to classic dubstep in North America. Hamdi single-handedly revived a style of music from the depths of the grave, earning the respect of legends such as Plastician along the way. ‘Skanka’ was the bass track of 2022, no doubt.
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1. Fred again x Swedish House Mafia – Turn On The Lights (feat. Future)
From making hits on the UK pop charts to becoming the one to watch instead, Fred again.. is finally getting his flowers. The garage producer captured the hearts of music lovers everywhere with his simplistic, personal approach to house music, mostly taking samples from his friends, loved ones, and “actual life” to create music that sounds like memories themselves. In this star-studded song, Fred again.. brings on Swedish House Mafia and Future for a rave-ready tune that brings you right into the middle of a warehouse.
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*1a. Fred again.. x Four Tet x Skrillex x Flowdan – Rumble
But honestly, ‘Rumble’ would have taken the number one slot if it were released this year. The ID was played in Fred again..’s iconic Boiler Room set that catapulted him into the mainstream spotlight, demanding attention from those who don’t even listen to dance music. The song might even be overplayed at this point, and it’s not even out yet.
-AL
FUXWITHIT Top 50 Songs Of 2022 Playlist
Written by Alessio, Alshaan, Arielle, Colin, John & Steph
