Beyond the Hits: 10 Underrated Major Lazer Songs You Need to Hear
Introduction
Major Lazer. The name alone conjures images of pulsating basslines, vibrant carnival energy, and global dancefloor anthems. From the inescapable 'Lean On' to the chart-topping 'Cold Water,' Diplo, Walshy Fire, and Ape Drums have consistently redefined the sound of modern electronic music, blending dancehall, reggae, EDM, and pop into an irresistible, genre-defying cocktail. Their impact on the global music scene is undeniable, with countless hits and collaborations that have shaped the sonic landscape. However, the sheer magnitude of their chart-topping singles often overshadows a treasure trove of equally brilliant, innovative, and deeply engaging tracks that lie scattered across their albums and EPs. These are the hidden gems, the deep cuts that truly showcase the breadth of Major Lazer's artistic vision, their fearless experimentation, and their unwavering commitment to pushing musical boundaries. If you think you know Major Lazer, prepare to have your mind, and your playlists, expanded. We're diving deep into their discography to unearth ten underrated masterpieces that deserve far more attention than they've received.
1. Original Don (feat. The Partysquad)
Released in 2011, 'Original Don' is a quintessential Major Lazer track from their *Free the Universe* era, featuring the explosive energy of Dutch production duo The Partysquad. Before the global pop domination, this song perfectly encapsulated Major Lazer's raw, aggressive dancehall-meets-electro sound. It's a relentless, high-octane banger driven by a pulsating synth line, a heavy bass drop, and commanding vocal samples that demand attention. While it was a favorite among early fans and DJs, it never quite crossed over into the mainstream consciousness in the same way later tracks did. It's a testament to their foundational sound, showcasing their ability to create immediate, powerful club anthems without relying on pop sensibilities. For those who appreciate Major Lazer's more unbridled, hardcore dance energy, 'Original Don' is an absolute must-listen that sets the tone for much of their subsequent work.
2. Get Free (feat. Amber of Dirty Projectors)
Another standout from *Free the Universe* (2013), 'Get Free' is perhaps one of Major Lazer's most emotionally resonant and sonically unique tracks. Featuring the hauntingly beautiful vocals of Amber Coffman from Dirty Projectors, this song is a stark departure from their usual high-energy fare. It's a melancholic, ethereal journey built on a sparse, reggae-infused beat, atmospheric synths, and Coffman's distinctive, almost mournful delivery. The lyrics speak of liberation and finding solace, creating a deeply introspective atmosphere. 'Get Free' showcases Major Lazer's incredible versatility and willingness to explore more experimental and introspective territories. It's a testament to Diplo's production genius that he could seamlessly blend such a delicate indie vocal performance with a dub-inspired electronic soundscape, proving Major Lazer is far more than just party music. This track offers a profound listening experience that is often overlooked.
3. Come On To Me (feat. Sean Paul)
From the 2014 EP *Apocalypse Soon*, 'Come On To Me' is a pure, unadulterated dancehall anthem featuring the legendary Sean Paul. This track is a masterclass in infectious rhythm, boasting a classic Major Lazer beat that immediately transports you to a sun-drenched beach party. Sean Paul's iconic, rapid-fire flow is perfectly matched by the track's vibrant energy, creating an undeniable urge to move. While Sean Paul has featured on many global hits, this particular collaboration with Major Lazer didn't achieve the same mainstream saturation, largely due to its release as an EP track rather than a lead single from a full album. However, it embodies everything fans love about the classic Major Lazer sound: authentic dancehall vibes, irresistible energy, and a collaboration with a true icon of the genre. It's a track that perfectly captures the essence of a Caribbean carnival and deserves to be blasted at full volume.
4. Jessica (feat. Ezra Koenig)
Appearing on the critically acclaimed 2015 album *Peace Is The Mission*, 'Jessica' is one of Major Lazer's most surprising and delightful collaborations, featuring Ezra Koenig of indie-rock band Vampire Weekend. This track stands out for its surprisingly mellow, almost indie-pop sensibility. Koenig's distinctive, laid-back vocals glide effortlessly over a dreamy, synth-driven backdrop, punctuated by subtle reggae guitar riffs and a relaxed, yet infectious, beat. It's a track that feels more like a chillwave experiment than a typical Major Lazer banger, demonstrating their willingness to venture far outside their comfort zone. 'Jessica' was often overshadowed by the album's massive hits like 'Lean On' and 'Powerful,' but it offers a refreshing change of pace and highlights Major Lazer's incredible adaptability and their talent for crafting nuanced, atmospheric soundscapes. It's a beautiful, understated gem that rewards repeat listens.
5. Blaze Up The Fire (feat. Chronixx)
Also from *Peace Is The Mission* (2015), 'Blaze Up The Fire' is a powerful homage to Major Lazer's reggae roots, featuring the formidable talent of Jamaican reggae artist Chronixx. This track is a fiery, conscious anthem built on a driving, roots-reggae riddim, infused with modern electronic flourishes. Chronixx's soulful, commanding vocals deliver a message of unity and strength, urging listeners to 'blaze up the fire' for justice and positive change. In an album packed with pop-leaning collaborations, 'Blaze Up The Fire' stands out for its authentic sound and its strong lyrical content. It's a track that resonated deeply with reggae purists and showcased Major Lazer's unwavering commitment to the genre that inspired much of their early work. While it might not have been a mainstream radio hit, its raw energy and powerful message make it an essential, and often overlooked, part of their discography.
6. All My Love (feat. Ariana Grande & Machel Montano)
Originally released on *The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1 – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack* in 2014, and later included in a remixed version on *Peace Is The Mission*, 'All My Love' is an intriguing blend of pop powerhouse vocals and authentic soca rhythms. Featuring the incredible vocal range of Ariana Grande and the undisputed 'King of Soca,' Machel Montano, this track is a vibrant, uplifting anthem. Grande's soaring chorus is perfectly complemented by Montano's energetic ad-libs and a pulsating, carnival-ready beat. Due to its initial placement on a movie soundtrack, this version often gets lost in the shuffle of Major Lazer's extensive catalog and Grande's own massive discography. It's a fantastic example of Major Lazer's ability to fuse mainstream pop appeal with genuine Caribbean sounds, creating a cross-cultural hit that deserved more standalone recognition. The synergy between these diverse artists is truly captivating.
7. Be Together (feat. Wild Belle)
Yet another gem from *Peace Is The Mission* (2015), 'Be Together' offers a dreamy, atmospheric, and slightly melancholic vibe that sets it apart from the album's more upbeat tracks. Featuring the sultry, ethereal vocals of Wild Belle, this song leans into chillwave and indie-electronic territories. The production is lush and expansive, with shimmering synths, a steady, understated beat, and a captivating vocal performance that evokes a sense of longing and intimacy. While it might lack the immediate punch of a typical Major Lazer banger, 'Be Together' showcases their incredible skill in crafting evocative soundscapes and emotional depth. It's a perfect track for a late-night drive or a reflective moment, proving that Major Lazer can create compelling music that isn't always designed for the dancefloor. Its subtle beauty often gets overshadowed by the album's more boisterous offerings.
8. Bubble Butt (feat. Bruno Mars, Tyga, Mystic, G-Wiz)
From *Free the Universe* (2013), 'Bubble Butt' is a hilariously cheeky, undeniably fun, and absolutely explosive track that features an unexpected all-star lineup including Bruno Mars, Tyga, Mystic, and G-Wiz. This song is pure, unadulterated Major Lazer – a high-energy, bass-heavy dance anthem designed to make you move. Its explicit lyrics and playful, provocative theme might have kept it from mainstream radio, but its infectious beat and the sheer star power of its collaborators make it an unforgettable listen. Bruno Mars's contribution, in particular, is a delightful surprise, showcasing his versatility beyond his pop and R&B hits. 'Bubble Butt' is a testament to Major Lazer's ability to create pure, unadulterated fun, embracing the raw, often irreverent spirit of dancehall culture. It's a track that perfectly embodies their "no rules" approach to music-making and deserves to be recognized for its audacious brilliance.
9. Go Dung (feat. Kes)
Released in 2017 as part of their *Essentials* compilation, 'Go Dung' is a vibrant, modern soca anthem featuring Trinidadian powerhouse Kes. This track is an instant mood-lifter, bursting with infectious carnival energy, a driving rhythm, and Kes's charismatic vocals. It perfectly captures the joyous, celebratory spirit of Caribbean music, blending traditional soca elements with Major Lazer's signature electronic polish. While it became a favorite among soca and dancehall enthusiasts, 'Go Dung' didn't receive the widespread attention of some of their other collaborations, perhaps due to its release outside of a dedicated studio album campaign. However, it's a prime example of Major Lazer's continued commitment to championing and elevating Caribbean artists and sounds on a global stage. This song is pure sunshine in audio form and a testament to their enduring influence in the world of tropical dance music.
10. Can't Stop Us Now (feat. Flux Pavilion)
Closing out our list is 'Can't Stop Us Now,' another powerful track from *Peace Is The Mission* (2015), featuring the heavy dubstep sounds of Flux Pavilion. This collaboration sees Major Lazer venturing into a more aggressive, bass-heavy electronic territory, showcasing their willingness to experiment with different subgenres of EDM. The track is characterized by its massive drops, intricate synth work, and a relentless energy that will appeal to fans of harder electronic music. While Major Lazer is known for their genre-bending, this particular track leans heavily into dubstep, making it a unique entry in their discography. It might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially for those accustomed to their more pop-friendly hits, but it demonstrates their versatility and their respect for the diverse landscape of electronic music. 'Can't Stop Us Now' is a powerful, often overlooked, banger that highlights the sheer breadth of Major Lazer's production capabilities.
Conclusion
Major Lazer's journey through the global music landscape has been nothing short of revolutionary, consistently pushing boundaries and creating a sound that is uniquely their own. While their mega-hits have rightly earned them worldwide acclaim, it's in these underrated tracks that we truly see the depth, versatility, and daring spirit of Diplo, Walshy Fire, and Ape Drums. From the raw dancehall energy of 'Original Don' to the introspective beauty of 'Get Free,' and the surprising indie collaboration of 'Jessica,' these songs are more than just album fillers; they are essential pieces of the Major Lazer puzzle. They demonstrate their mastery of diverse genres, their keen eye for unexpected collaborations, and their unwavering commitment to innovation. So, next time you're curating a playlist, dig a little deeper than the usual suspects. You might just discover your new favorite Major Lazer anthem, and a renewed appreciation for the boundless creativity of one of music's most influential groups. Happy listening!