nu-disco
disco and EDM music genre
Nu-disco combines the infectious grooves of disco with modern production techniques, resulting in a sound that pulses with vibrant energy. Imagine lush synths swirling around funky basslines, layered with bright horns and glittering percussion that beckon you to hit the dance floor. It’s a celebration of joy, often evoking nostalgia while feeling fresh and forward-thinking. The result is a sonic tapestry that captures the spirit of revelry and unrestrained movement, perfect for those late-night gatherings.
Emerging in the late 1990s and peaking in the 2000s, nu-disco was born from a desire to breathe new life into disco’s classic elements while pushing against more commercial electronic sounds. The genre took inspiration from the past—particularly the late ’70s and early ’80s—transforming it through the lens of house music culture. Pioneering artists like Dimitri From Paris brought an authentic touch with remixes that respected disco's roots, while groups like Chromeo infused humor and funk into their tracks. Meanwhile, Daft Punk’s “Discovery” signaled a shift that would steer listeners back toward those shimmering dance-floor vibes.
For newcomers diving into nu-disco, start with "Get Lucky" by Daft Punk, which perfectly encapsulates the genre's blend of modernity and nostalgia. Then explore "Night by Night" from Chromeo, offering a playful take on relationships wrapped in irresistible grooves. Don't miss "Music Sounds Better With You" by Stardust, a classic that showcases the timeless nature of disco’s influence. Lastly, check out "Dancer" by Shakedown for its raw dancefloor appeal. Once you’ve soaked this in, keep an ear open for house music and synth-pop — they often share a spirited conversation with nu-disco.
30 artists in the catalog.
Guides for nu-disco artists
Top nu-disco albums
See essentials
All nu-disco artists
Kylie Minogue
dance-pop, electropop
Calvin Harris
dance-pop, electro house
Daft Punk
French house, dance music
Scissor Sisters
electroclash, electronic music
Justice
French electro, French house
Yuksek
electronica
Madeon
electro house, pop music
David Morales
house music
Kris Menace
Cassius
French hip-hop, French house
Dimitri from Paris
Shibuya-kei, contemporary R&B
Crayon Pop
K-pop, dance-pop
Stephen Fasano
house music
Metronomy
electro, indie pop
Flight Facilities
downtempo, electronic music
AronChupa
alternative dance, electro house
About nu-disco
What is nu-disco?
disco and EDM music genre
Where should I start with nu-disco?
Start with "The Albums 2000–2010" by Kylie Minogue. It captures what makes nu-disco worth exploring.
What are the best nu-disco albums?
The nu-disco albums worth hearing first: "The Albums 2000–2010" by Kylie Minogue, "Impossible Princess" by Kylie Minogue, "Greatest Hits 87–97" by Kylie Minogue, "Body Language" by Kylie Minogue and "Other Sides" by Kylie Minogue.
How many nu-disco artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 30 nu-disco artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.