Top Artists of 2022
The All New “Traxsource Top 500 Artists of 2022” has landed! When we consider the nearly 700,000 Artists who release music on Traxsource each year, we are reminded of just how much talent and effort is on display. Major props to each and every Artist who has put in the work to deliver serious dancefloor-shattering club sounds all year round.
This year, with so many Artists widening their boundaries and producing and performing top shelf tracks in multiple genres, we felt the need to go back to the drawing board. We wanted to remove the often redundant genre specific lists into a comprehensive stand alone Top 500 listing which is representative of the diverse musical output of our talented artists.
The Traxsource Top 500 Artists of 2022 is based on 2022 Sales trends, Top Chart trends, Dj Chart trends, overall popularity, and a healthy dose of our own curation gleaned from our own Essentials selections over the year plus good old fashion A&R. Rest assured - no stone was left unturned to ensure we present the definitive top 500 artists who moved you and us in 2022.
(If you're in this list, your top artist badge is on your artist page, just click on the star icon)
This year, with so many Artists widening their boundaries and producing and performing top shelf tracks in multiple genres, we felt the need to go back to the drawing board. We wanted to remove the often redundant genre specific lists into a comprehensive stand alone Top 500 listing which is representative of the diverse musical output of our talented artists.
The Traxsource Top 500 Artists of 2022 is based on 2022 Sales trends, Top Chart trends, Dj Chart trends, overall popularity, and a healthy dose of our own curation gleaned from our own Essentials selections over the year plus good old fashion A&R. Rest assured - no stone was left unturned to ensure we present the definitive top 500 artists who moved you and us in 2022.
(If you're in this list, your top artist badge is on your artist page, just click on the star icon)
1. Louie Vega
Louie Vega does it yet again! Following another year of non-stop excellence, the legend rightfully claims the #1 spot! His influence was felt inside the clubs as it was in our charts - thanks to a steady output from a musician and modern day cultural icon, who never fails to reinvent and keep us on our toes.
Never one for staying still for too long, this year saw Louie Vega drop the hugely celebrated work of art ‘Expansions In The NYC’ on Nervous - our #1 Album of 2022! His influence continues to ripple around the world, flying the flag for soul and experimentation - showing us that the long-game and coloring outside the lines is where the magic really lives.
Expansions In The NYC featured a killer all-star lineup of collaborators: Joe Claussell, Cindy Mizell, Unlimited Touch, Moodymann, Kerri Chandler, Honey Dijon, Lisa Fischer, Tony Momrelle and his new alias alongside Josh Milan - ‘Two Fusion’ and more! Yet another extensive work of art packed full of soul, flavor and class that will forever stand the test of time.
Other heavy hitters included a dream remix lined up by Defected, bringing together the soulful tones of Detroit’s Dames Brown with a deeper Expansions NYC Dub of ‘What Would You Do?’ alongside Josh Milan, executed to perfection. Vega Records shone bright feat. Mike Lindup (founding member of the legendary band Level 42) on ‘Time To Let Go’ and ‘Breath Of Life’ on dropping on Nulu.
2. DJ Spen
There’s no stopping DJ Spen! The Quantize and unquantize label boss kept the fire burning during 2022. Locking in no less than 4 cuts in our Top 200 Tracks of 2022, the pioneer made it look easy!
April saw the arrival of new album ‘Eye Of The Storm’ boasting a stellar lineup of collaborators: Kerri Chandler, Jovonn, Tasha LaRae, Soulfuledge, Michelle John, Terry Hunter Fonda Rae, Jihad Muhammad, David Morales and more! A whopping 18 tracks all tied together by Spen’s undeniable mastery of in shaping the ultimate groove - a homage to the past, brought up to speed for 2022.
Spen peppered his signature groove all over the killer remix ‘You Brought The Sunshine’ by the Clark Sisters - one huge rhythm, oozing with soul, that channeled that special Quantized energy. Barbara Tucker flew high atop of Spen and Thommy Davis’ remix of ‘Think (About It)’, a masterclass in groove, and the keys got a Glitterbox working on ‘I Believe’ alongside Michele Chiavarini. Flawless output from the man who continues to inject so much soul into the music that we hear. Thank you DJ Spen!
3. Dave Lee ZR
2022 was another remarkable chapter for king of the reworks, Dave Lee! His Z Records imprint released countless gems, showing us that he remains one of the most consistent and influential figureheads in music today.
Drawing on his roots in Soul, Funk and Disco, this is where Dave Lee is at home, regularly appearing throughout our top 200 tracks of the year. His discography, already one of the most extensive there is, continues to expand, racking up big hits such as his club edit of ‘Starlight’, the now classic remix of ‘Garden Of Love’ with Dam Swindle, boogie mix ‘Play 2 Win’ ‘and 'Atlantia’. Midway through the year, ‘Produced With II’ captured the essence of the music man - feat. Billy Valentine, Angela Johnson, Gina Carey, Tiffany T’zelle, Lifford and more, all effortlessly intertwined across 12 new cuts that continues from its 2017 predecessor. If there’s one thing the scene always needs, it’s someone like Dave Lee - setting the standard for others to follow.
4. Michael Gray
We pay respect to one of the most trusted and admired producers House Music has to offer, Michael Gray, who is snugly tucked in at position #4. With 10 tunes in the top 200 tracks of 2022, and a number 1 spot, Gray caps off an incredible year for underground music. With dominance across the House, Soul, Funk & Disco, and Soulful House Best of 2022 Charts - not to mention the numerous Weekend Weapons, Hype Charts, and DJ Chart features his music appeared in. It's also continuing an upward trajectory into certified legendary status. That is quite a resume of accomplishments!
We couldn't acknowledge his achievements without mentioning that his remix of ‘Saturday’ is among our top 200 music of 2022 because of his ability to easily blend Soul, Funk, and Disco with House. His Vocal Remix on Liquid Deep's ‘If You Take My Love’ by Booker T and Kings Of Soul, where the famous vocal was brought to life once again with more glimmer, was another standout release. It’s also important to talk about his deep house remix ‘Dance With Me’ by Risk Assessment and Queen Rose released on No Fuss Records same as his remix for ‘I Believe’ by Robin S including Mark Knight’s remix. Finally,his soul gem remix ‘Love Is Gonna Be On Your Side’ by Firefly also made some serious steam on our charts. The globe will continue to enjoy some of the most up-to-date and expertly produced House Music as long as he is producing music and working in the studio. Michael Gray, thank you.
All time living legend, Kerri Chandler, kept it moving throughout 2022! One of the originators of the deep house sound, Chandler continues to evolve and expand, much to the delight of DJs, clubbers and music fans around the globe. A bastion for pushing things forward - Kerri Chandler’s energy is one of the most important pillars that keeps house music alive on the world stage.
It was a big year, with almost all charts carrying his work - notably within our Best Of 2022 round ups as well. Landing a solid ten, yes TEN, overall #1 cuts this year, his album ‘Spaces and Places’ released on Kaoz Theory showed us how the truest of the true can flex. Perfection in action, he celebrated club and sound system culture with his first album in over 14 years. The DJ’s DJ and producer’s producer hit us with his signature sound - ‘You Get Lost In It (The Warehouse Project) *chef’s kiss*. Is it even paying homage, when you set the foundations yourself? We’re not sure, but we are sure here for it! ‘Let It Be’ was another sampler of what was to launch from Pandora's ‘Kaoz Theory’ stamped box, a firm regular in our charts.
Over the last 30 years Kerri has unquestionably helped to shape the sound of house music. Not only from the DJ booth and studio, but also as an A&R via his Kaoz Theory label which has worked with contemporary talents like Jamie Jones, Seth Troxler and The Martinez Brothers. Spaces and Places will undoubtedly be seen as a timeless tribute that underscores the originality that has kept him as one of the most in-demand artists for so many years.
6. Atjazz
Strong work by Martin ‘Atjazz’ Iveson this year, one of the most prolific producers and remixers out there thanks to a 20+ year-long career of reworking and partnering on releases for artists across the globe. Big cuts included his remix for Imagenes on ‘Amazonas Secret Kingdom’, his soulful rework of Lyricl’s beautiful spoken words on ‘When You Read This’ released on Makin Moves. The biggest and the best lined up for a special touch of Atjazz, including Reel People Music, Papa Records, Z Records, Foliage Records amongst others - testament to a creative musician that crafts cuts with substance and longevity. The instantly recognizable and delicate keys of ‘American Dream’ received his rework magic, injecting the Jakatta classic with a new lease of life for 2022 and beyond.
Atjazz scored a total of 7 tracks in our Top 200 Deep House Tracks of 2022, and another 3 in the Soulful House category - demonstrating his versatility and breadth as a producer. Back at home, his own namesake label, Atjazz Record Company, continued to spotlight exciting music. A true artist who also has the natural ability to identify and nurture talent - the real deal!
7. Dr Packer
As synonymous with Disco as he is with remixing and laying down the freshest edits, Greg ‘Dr’ Packer receives a well deserved position this year having 6 tracks in the overall top 200, as well as appearing more than 50 times in the overall top 10 charts
He spent months delivering sparkling audio bombs of disco-flavoured dance floor destruction like his 'Disco Dub' Extended Remix ‘Pleasure Love’, ‘You're the One for Me’ featuring Colonel Abrams, ‘Joy’ released on Champion Records, his ‘I.O.U.’ remix, same like ‘Hot Jungle Drums & Voo Doo Rhythm’ released on Glitterbox Recordings. 2022 also saw Greg release on Tinted Records, Sub-Urban, Only Good Vibes Music, deepvisionz, Nervous, and High Fashion Music.
8. Sebb Junior
This year saw the mighty Sebb Junior further cement his position as one of the most exciting producers out there. His ability to formulate tight, driving deep cuts that drive dancefloors to the brink, kept his name high amongst our charts. A master of clean, big-room cuts with space and clarity - if it’s going off in the mainroom, then it’s probably Sebb Junior in the booth or one of his tracks being played. He continues to receive solid support from the biggest names in the scene, who know that his music always delivers!
This year Sebb Junior continued to expand what is becoming an impressive portfolio of work with his stellar-quality release ‘The Groove Collection’ and a track ‘As One’, released on No Fuss Records. He had 6 overall #1s this year. Papa Records released Sebb’s superb remix of N-You-Up and LATASHÁ’s ‘Play’ while Spacedisco Records released Sebb’s remix of ‘How You Gonna’ by Hatiras and Bishøp. He also released hot tunes on Large Music, Blockhead Recordings, Phoenix Music, King Street Sounds and made some serious impact with his own label La Vie D'Artiste Music.
Globally revered American DJ, Grammy award-winning record producer, and songwriter David Morales had yet another successful year, underscored by landing 7 of his tunes among our top 200 overall tracks and 6 big #1’s. The year saw not one, but two albums arrive - including his first full-length studio album in over a decade. ‘Life Is A Song’ released on DIRIDIM demonstrated his masterful orchestration of old school sound and modern sensibilities taking listeners on a sonic journey spanning 15 tracks feat. Ultra Nate, Michelle Perera, Lea Lorien, DJ Rae, Joe Robers + more! As if that wasn’t enough, DIRIDIM had more in store - releasing ‘Red Zone 7’ - a body of work that paid homage to his formative years at the influential club of the same name. Big driving atmospheric tracks were the order of the day, all lovingly showcasing his imaginative genius in the studio. Other big cuts to note included 'Life Is a Song' (Philly Mix), 'You Used to Hold Me' by Ralphi Rosario, Samantha Blanchard, 'Holding Me Touching Me' featuring Elle Cato same as his more recent Disco Juice Vocal Mix 'Free To Love'.
10. Angelo Ferreri
Italian producer and DJ, Angelo Ferreri, thundered through 2022 and remains one of the biggest trailblazers in Jackin House today! Ferreri’s record speaks for itself, having been the #1 Jackin House artist for three years in a row. This year provided 7 Overall #1s, an astonishing 27 appearances in the top 10 and 133 times being in the top 100. A producer who is currently leading the way in the Jackin scene, this year has released originals and remixes on the likes of Milk & Sugar Recordings, UFO Recordz, Groove Culture, Spacedisco Records and a host of other quality labels. From a stand-out year full of quality tracks, his house ‘Glitter’ mix ‘Running Out’ was really successful, same as ‘Escape’ featuring Max Millan, and we loved the irresistible dance floor drive of ‘Jackin Harmony’, both released on his own label. So, it’s important to mention, of course, Mood Funk and MONOSIDE, Angelo’s self-run labels too, which continued to deliver the heavy-duty house goods all year.
Yet another strong year for Italian House masters Micky More & Andy Tee. The Groove Culture bosses sit comfortably with 4 tracks in the overall top 200, with six times being at the overall number one and 69 times at the overall top 100. The heavily decorated duo (Michele Mingo and Andrea Tonici) have been working hard in the studio and it shows. Their productions remain high in our regular charts alongside other releases from the Groove Culture imprint which settled for nothing less than fine-tuned quality control and the freshest grooves around. Standout release ‘In Our Groove’ landing on Z Records, comprising a whopping 29 tracks celebrating the very best in soul, funk and disco. Packed full of edits, remixes and heavy hitters: Doug Willis, Masters At Work, The Sunburst Band, Eric Kupper and more! Their track ‘Do I Do’ featuring talented Angela Johnson became a mainstay across our charts, undoubtedly thanks to its fresh, soulful and funky groove. More action for their label arrived in the form of ‘Blow Your Mind’, another soulful treat from the Groove Culture imprint as well as their rework ‘Lose Control’ by Miguel Migs and Lisa Shaw. Whilst the rich culture of groove is still at large, we’ll continue to eagerly anticipate their every move. Here’s to another year of fantastic music!
12. Doug Gomez
New York’s own Doug Gomez blessed us with another year packed with the finest in Afro and Latin beats. The originator and Merecumbe Recordings label boss showed us why he was the #1 Afro House artist last year, sowing the seeds and clearing the path for new artists to come through the ranks. As DJ’s digged deeper and looked to explore further into sonics and hungered for more beyond drops and impact, it was either his name or label that was appearing in their sets. His cuts are just as at home in the clubs as they are soundtracking the summer, making for a level of versatility many can only dream of!
His 16 tracks ended up in the Top 200 Afro House tracks of 2022. Doug turned in some quality remixes in 2022, with his remix ‘Is It A Crime’ released on Open Bar Music. He also remixed ‘Let Me See’ by Pad Beryll and Toshi for Nite Grooves, ‘Cast In Your Spell’ by Steal Vybe, Monday Michiru and ‘Find Yourself’ released on the highly lauded Vibe Boutique Records.
13. Art Of Tones
Ludovic Llorca, better known to us as producer extraordinaire Art Of Tones could not have had a better year! Securing the hallowed ‘Artist of the Year’ spot, Llorca’s light shone bright. His ability to seemingly add actual sunshine to his music is not only a talent, but a secret weapon! Now a certified buy-on-sight artist, Art of Tones continues to appear high amongst our charts and at the top of DJ’s playlists thanks to his funk-fuelled grooves and driving rhythm. Never one to overcomplicate the mix, Art of Tones remains a benchmark for producers around the world. Top productions from him this year included his well-rated Souleance remix on First Word Records ‘GUILI’, and the big singles ‘Lucky Day’ on Mood Funk Records and ‘Crazay‘, released on his very own label PALP. Ludo also delivered some impressive remixes this year on Big Love Records, The Disco Express, Peppermint Jam, Boogie Angst and many more!
14. Mijangos
One of Mexico's top DJs and a true pioneer of Latin house, Andrés Mijangos has elevated the reputation of his own nation while upholding the traditions of his Latin heritage through his creations and mixing style. His year was relentless, as underscored by his many accomplishments. This year, he dominated the Afro, Latin, and Brazilian chart with 45 tracks in the top 200, three appearances in the top 200 overall, and 57 appearances in the top 10 overall. His standout releases include the impeccable Latin House Remix 'No No No', lovely Afro Soul Mix 'You Give Me Love', Oscar P's 'Para Que Sufra' in Mijangos' Afro House Mix and 'Din Daa Daa' released on Savage Worldwide.
15. Jimpster
What a year for producer, DJ, label boss, and all-around Deep House don, Jimpster! 2022 saw his beloved Freerange imprint an astounding achievement as the label cements a quarter century legacy without showing any signs of taking a foot off the gas. Jimpster comes in at #15 following yet another strong year of output landing 5 overall #1’s in our charts! Odell, who goes by the pseudonym Jimpster, has established himself as one of the most powerful Deep House producers working today, so it’s not surprising that he released continuous gold this year. Standout moments include a beautiful slice of poetic soulful Deep House in ‘Midnight Memories’ released on Soulfuric Deep. Z Records called upon the Freerange boss to remix the classic track ‘Want Me Back’, turning it into a rich & sublime Deep House mix. The exceptional afro-house remix ‘Mitodzi’ released on Foliage made a solid impact on the charts. Congratulations Jimpster, thank you for keeping the music coming in 2022!
16. CASSIMM
CASSIMM made a huge impact both in his career and on the house music scene this year thanks to a steady stream of big remixes and original productions. CASSIMM’s remix of the house anthem “Pasilda” was a worldwide hit, with clubbers around the world raving about his re-imagined version of such an all-time favorite. While he also reworked tracks like “Disco Revenge 2021”, “You Can't Hide from Yourself” or “Be Funky”, his remixes injected new life into the genre, bringing a powerful twist to some of the best performing tracks of the year.
Each of these remixes was met with open arms and subsequently became some of the biggest best sellers of the year. He released a number of original productions that showcased his unique production style. Tracks such as "Spirit of House " with Ron Carroll and Milk & Sugar and "Release" with Tamika Tyan were immediate hits, becoming must-have-tracks among house music collectors. Amazing job overall, thanks to many years of hard graft and his ever-growing hunger for making new music.
17. Terry Hunter
There are good years, strong years and even incredible years - but then there are years like the original Chicago House Music icon and legend, Terry Hunter just had! Scoring his SECOND Grammy nomination in the Best Remix Recording category for Beyonce’s ‘Break My Soul’, the powerhouse behind T’s Box and Mirror Ball Recordings showed us how it’s done.
He released the highly anticipated track T.S.O.C. (The Sound of Chicago) - a true celebration of the city's music, featuring an all-star cast of Chicago natives, including some of the most respected and iconic names in the industry. Common, Mike Dunn, Deon Cole, Chantay Savage, Coldhard, AM7, and Jamie Principle all contributed their talents to the track, lending their individual style to the project and creating a song that was both a nod to Chicago's past and a modern take on the city's rich house music scene. The track was met with widespread acclaim, with many critics citing it as a career-defining moment for Hunter. The track was also praised for its ability to bring together some of the city's most iconic voices, illustrating the power and diversity of the city's music.
He released a number of other beautifully crafted jams, including remixes to soul legends like Chaka Khan and Brian McKnight, while scoring 7 tracks in the Top 200 Soulful House of 2022.
18. Saison
British duo Saison kept the speaker stacks rattling this year, pushing the envelope thanks to their infamously tight productions and knack for driving dancefloor stompers. The brains behind No Fuss Records kept things deep, serving up more original music and remixes that dominated our deep house charts throughout the year.
Saison’s work in collaboration with the mighty Low Steppa on ‘Dig Deep’ that dropped on DFTD was a cleancut demonstration of a well-versed house jam. Their remix of ‘Soft Touch’ on their own imprint “No Fuss Records' played to his more comfortable-sounding edge whilst their remix of ‘It's A Groove Thang’ on Big Love was one for demanding deep house collectors. Another standout production was their remix to Scott Diaz’s ‘I Sold My Soul’ - another outing for Saison on Grand Plans where they flexed yet another classy and deep number! We couldn’t wrap the year without mentioning Saison’s brilliant remix of ‘Soft Touch’ - a chart sticker for many weeks, both our Traxsource Hype and Weekend Weapons charts and also heavily featured within our guest DJ charts. The North Londoners also nailed a remix of Local Option’s ‘The Right Direction’ making for a floating journey into the universe with deep, laid-back flavors at play paired with delicate keys. Congratulations Saison on a great year, here’s to the next!
19. Emmaculate
Emmaculate proved to be a major force amongst our charts. His prolific production style, which blended multiple genres, made him a favorite among DJs and producers, taking one of his remixes to the first position on our Top 200 Tracks of 2022 - the remix he delivered for house music anthem “Show Me Love” released on Reel People Music at the very end of 2021.
Emmaculate's signature sound delivered a perfect combination of soulful and afro beats, with a healthy dose of funk and disco. unquantize played home to ‘Konga Madness’, a standout and instantly recognisable cut teeming with energy. Z Records got in on the action, inviting Emmaculate to serve up an extended remix of ‘Dougswana’ for an unmistakable melting pot of a track; effortlessly fusing together the many influences in one tidy and very well produced track. When it comes to vocal royalty, they don’t come much bigger than the iconic Mary J. Blige. Emmaculate stepped up to the plate and knocked his remix out of the park, so much so that it is the #3 Afro House Track of 2022! ‘Black Whole’ released on Mirror Ball Recordings was a fine representation of his production capabilities. Terry Hunter’s stable also saw Kenny Dope on remix duties on ‘Do It’ feat. Kaye Fox, the perfect complement of two heavyweight artists, not forgetting his remix of Reel People’s ‘Butterflies’ featuring the incredible Vanessa Freeman!
20. Moon Rocket
Another formidable year for the mighty Moon Rocket! A naturally gifted musician, Moon Rocket is a rare breed of producer, positioning himself as one of the future greats thanks to his masterful work on the keys. With the ability to play both in the studio and live during live sessions, his output is as refreshing as it is original - no mean feat in this day and age!
The Miami maestro served up a number of big remixes and original productions throughout the year. All it takes is one look at our charts at any given moment, and you will struggle to not find his name! Notable cuts include his Moon Mix of ‘End Of The Weapons Noise’ that ebbed and flowed through a hypnotic soundscape of synths and stabs. ‘Hammondish’ saw Moon Rocket let loose on the keys to deliver his trademark style alongside TSIS and Toni Economides. Other well received releases included ‘El Baile Del Organo’ and the exceptionally good ‘Running Out’ that received Angelo Ferrero’s glittering remix treatment. All in a year’s work for the man that can’t stop the music. Keep it coming, Moon Rocket!
21. Opolopo
Opolopo had yet another great year delivering incredible music to our ears! The Swedish DJ and Producer remixed some seriously classic tracks for labels including Quantize Recordings and Reel People Music. Still riding high off his brilliant album with Local Talk in 2021 his star continues to shine. It’s no wonder that you will find over 100 of his tracks in some of the highest positions throughout the year. A highlight in 2022 was his collaboration with vocalist Roland Clark on “Salvation” released back in September on Tinted Records, not to forget his remix to D.C. LaRue’s “Let Them Dance”on Only Good Vibes Music!
There has been no stopping Opolopo’s string of productions, as we’ve been treated to dozens and dozens of soulful and deep goodness. Rounding out the year with a well placed position. We can all expect to see another incredible year ahead for Opolopo in 2022, so bring it on!
22. Miguel Migs
It was another big year for Californian DJ, producer and Salted Music label boss Miguel Migs. Riding high on the impressive momentum built up over the past couple of years, 2022 saw Miguel release even more fresh, energetic and innovative slices of deep house. Miguel knows what needs to be done in the studio to keep dancefloors moving deep into the early hours. He’s mastered the art over the years and he’s demonstrated it once again! ‘Shaping Visions’ released to much acclaim on Soulfuric Deep served as a hotbed of releases with a number of singles stemming from the album performing well throughout the year. Collaborators included house favorite Lisa Shaw, guitarist and vocalist for Prince, Andy Allo and Rebel Soul founder, Martin Luther. Migs returned to Groove Culture for the ‘Lose Control’ EP marking an excellent release on Micky More & Andy Tee’s label. Not forgetting even more high-charting output on Salted Music, rounding of a solid year for a solid producer, long live the mighty Miguel Migs!
23. Demarkus Lewis
Grin Music’s Demarkus Lewis proved yet again that his creativity knows no boundaries. It was a great year for one of the scene’s most prolific producers and remixers. A life force across many of our subgenres including deep, garage, soulful and jackin where Demarkus displayed the breadth and extent of his capabilities. Demonstrating year-after-year that the music man from Dallas is a refreshingly original and organic talent. Standout releases include ‘Down With The Underground’ and his remix of DJ Czezre’s ‘Vaulted Recipe ’ with Venessa Jackson, making for a beautifully crafted piece of soulful music on legendary label King Street Sounds.
A large list of productions through 2022, with over 200 tracks reaching Top 100 positions, demonstrates that Demarkus is clearly enjoying his time in the studio, showcasing his strengths as a multi-faceted producer year after year.
24. Mike Dunn
Mike Dunn aka THE voice, has been a major player for over two decades. He has been a driving force behind House Music, pushing its boundaries and keeping it alive, exciting, and at times downright naughty!
Dunn remains at the top of his game as House Music royalty, delivering some of the most instantly recognisable and innovative music out there and moves as a true pioneer.
This year his discography has seen an impressive array of additions, all of which have been met with great enthusiasm from music lovers around the globe. Dunn has consistently delivered quality music that has kept his fans coming back for more.
In addition to his own productions, Dunn also lent his talents to multiple collaborations including Honey Dijon's hot new album ‘Black Girl Magic’ and contributed to Louie Vega's ‘Free To Love (Remixes)’. His singles were well-received and his remixes have earned him critical acclaim, including ours!
25. Hatiras
Spacedisco head honcho, Hatiras, rounds off another remarkable year. Holding fort as one of the most exciting Jackin producers to have graced our charts!
Big tracks and remixes this year include ‘The Groove’ and ‘Let Me Show You Love’ - both standing out thanks to their unique sound, pumping vibes and catchy melodies. Spacedisco Records continues to be recognized as one of the best Jackin House labels in the game - with a steady output of future classics and tight productions. Over on Sebb Junior’s La Vie D’Artiste Music imprint, Hatiras laid down his killer remix of ‘Hide Away’ which found its place firmly in the tracklists of all good selectors and those who know what it takes to turn up the heat on the dancefloor.
Hatiras' experience has been a great influence on his music this year, ranging from his early days of producing music in the late 90s to his current sound. He has been able to take a variety of influences and combine them together to create something truly remarkable. Hatiras has been able to create a unique sound that has become increasingly popular for Traxsource’s audience, and it is no surprise that he has been able to achieve such great success this year. He continues to be a major part of the Jackin House genre, and we look forward to what he will bring to the table next year!
It was an amazing year for the Glitterbox legend! Following hard work in the studio, heads down working on some of the best music released this year, The Shapeshifters Simon Marlin witnessed first hand how his relentless graft sent the dancefloors into a frenzy of happiness and joy - throwing down legendary sets at Glitterbox’s Ibiza residency at Hï and around the world! He successfully delivered his new studio album ‘Let Loose’ - bursting at the seams with vibrancy and flavor echoing the golden era of disco, bringing it to new ears and audiences in 2022. Cutting absolutely no corners, the 14 track journey featured triumphant layers of strings, brass and grooves - not forgetting an incredible lineup of vocal talents that included none other than Billy Porter, Kimberly Davis, Teni Tinks, Florious and Aria Lyric. In an age where at times releases can feel a little light on their feet - you can always rely on The Shapeshifters for the real five star deluxe experience! Bravo!
27. Qubiko
Qubiko’s musical year in 2022 has been one for the books. The DJ and producer from Italy has cemented himself as one of the most in-demand acts of the year. Perhaps the biggest news of the year for Qubiko was the launch of his own label, Dansoo, aimed at showcasing the best in house. During the last 365 days, Qubiko’s repertoire has been home to some of the most talked-about releases of the year, scoring two overall #1 positions.
His tracks ‘Glory’, ‘Mind Game’ and ‘Mono Tono’ have earned a great deal of attention for Traxsource’s audience and have been played out in clubs and festivals around the world. His most recent single, ‘Dreams’, is a melodic techno gem that is sure to be a summer anthem. All in all, Qubiko’s musical year in 2022 has been a great success.
In 2023, Qubiko's success is sure to continue. He has shown his music has the power to move people and make them dance, and that is something that will never go out of style. We can't wait to see what he will bring us in the future.
28. David Penn
David Penn delivers yet another strong year with his music being released on some of the biggest labels in the game, as well as consistently topping the charts on our site with not just original tracks but also dope remixes, always full of energy and emotion. On his score: Four big tunes this year, all going #1! Including his remix of Basement Jaxx smash ‘Do Your Thing’, ‘Push The Feeling’ feat. Leon Standford released on Defected and the irresistibly stomping remix of John Summit’s ‘La Danza’.
Penn remains to be a master of building tension and utilizing drops, breakdowns and builds to create an infectious and unforgettable journey through sound… and we love it!
His music has been featured on the likes of Defected, Atlantic Jaxx Recordings, Mood Funk Records and Deepalma, and his tracks continue to be highly sought after by both fans and DJs alike. David is looking to carry his momentum into 2023 with the same production skills that have gained him global recognition. His hits are being spun in clubs and radio stations around the world year after year and 2022 was no different. It is no wonder to Traxsource why he is one of the most sought-after producers in the industry.
29. Honey Dijon
There’s no doubt about it, 2022 was Honey Dijon’s year! It feels like everything had been leading up to this point - further cementing what we already knew, that her position as one of House Music’s brightest and most exciting innovators kept it real and dropped heavy hit after heavy hit. Remaining one of the most in-demand DJ’s on the planet, Honey Dijon found time to receive a Grammy nomination for her work alongside Luke Solomon, Chris Penny and Beyoncé and then dropping Black Girl Magic, her highly anticipated sophomore album on Classic Music Company. We knew it would be fire, and she didn’t disappoint! 15 cuts of attitude, energy, heart and community feat. an A-List of collaborators such as Channel Tres, Eve, Pabllo Vittar, Josh Caffe, Mike Dunn and more. It has found its place as a boundary-pushing LP and flew in the charts. With more to give, she even got to collaborate on Louie Vega’s album ‘Expansions In The NYC’ - the #1 Top Album of The Year!
In addition to her music, Honey Dijon also had an incredibly successful year of touring. She performed at top festivals like Glastonbury and Creamfields, Glitterbox’s Ibiza residency at Hï, Circoloco, the UK’s biggest queer event HOMOBLOC, ADE, her Radiance party at London’s newest venue Beams from the same team behind Printworks. The list is endless, as is her energy. We want what she’s having!
30. Franck Roger
An outstanding year for French producer Franck Roger. With 10 of his tracks making their way into the top 200 deep house of 2022, he keeps the music coming. His tracks have been celebrated for their glorious energetic sound, and his ability to create a unique and vibrant atmosphere in his music. His most popular tracks of the year include "Don’t Ever Luv Me," "I’m Waiting" and "Deeper" which have been heavily charted and supported by many top DJs and producers.
This year, Franck Roger's labels Real Tone and Earthrumental Music continue to please music heads old and new, attracting legions of fans from around the world. Both are equally respected as leading labels in the field! As the labels grow, it's evident that Franck Roger is still on the rise as an artist. Overall, he’s had a resplendent year and it looks like there is no sign of slowing down any time soon. With his unique sound and production skills, it's no surprise that he has gotten so much recognition this year. We can't wait to hear what he has in store for 2023.
