I usually stream the Beach Boys channel from a paid online music service like Spotify or Pandora. I love this channel because the music is timeless and appeals to a wide audience.
Some other options for your party playlist are:
- The Strokes (pop / rock)
- Rosemary Clooney (traditional vocal jazz)
- Instrumental film soundtracks like these, compiled by Xandra
Related Post: Harmonica Usage for Icebreakers
My name is Nick Gray, and I'm the best-selling author of the party handbook The 2-Hour Cocktail Party. I've hosted hundreds of parties all over the world, and been featured in the WSJ, The New York Times, and New York Magazine.
Party Playlists on Spotify
Instrumental music: R-B Party!
Xandra has hosted several parties using my book. She says about this playlist: "We do all instrumental soundtracks: Whiplash, La La Land, Midnight in Paris, Cafe Society. Plus Lindsay Stirling's Artemis at the beginning for party prep."
A Note from The Author (Nick Gray)
You're doing it! This will be fun.
My big goal in writing this book and these articles is to get 500 people to host their own party and tell me about it.
You can see my current list and count at www.party.pro/hosts/
Send me an email or text me with your party date.
Email to nick@nickgraynews.com or text me at +1-917-635-9967
I reply to every message, usually quick. And I'll give you a few bonus tips and tricks or answer any questions.
Send me a note now. Email to nick@nickgraynews.com or text me at +1-917-635-9967
Guardians of the Galaxy Soundtrack
This soundtrack idea comes from Richard in Calgary. "I've been using Guardians of the Galaxy playlists at my parties. Another fun one is to look up the Straight Outta Compton movie soundtrack and play the Spotify radio for that!"
Beautiful covers to go with your cocktail
Tim in San Francisco has also hosted a few parties from the book. "Here's a really nice collection of covers a friend sent me. I've been listening to them all day."
Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall
From Alex in Toronto: "Find of the week - Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall is exactly 2 hrs and 2 minutes on Spotify. When Judy sings Somewhere Over the Rainbow, it's time for guests to go home."
Want the full hosting playbook?
Grab the free 2-page party checklist.
Party Playlists on Youtube
My Analog Journal
Dejan Gajsek says that My Analog Journey is a playlist of amazing grooves from around the world.
Submit Your Playlist
Do you have a good playlist that others can play at their party? Email it to nick@party.pro and I'll add it here.
