Dua Lipa: The Queen of Dance-Pop

Get ready to hit the dance floor, because in this episode of The Music in Me, we’re diving into the irresistible world of Dua Lipa! I’m Teri, your host, and today we’re talking about one of my all-time favorite artists to groove to. Whether you’re a dance floor pro or someone who just loves to dance around the living room, Dua Lipa’s music has that magic touch that makes you want to move. We’ll start by exploring Dua’s fascinating background, from her London roots to becoming a global dance-pop sensation. Then, we’ll break down some of her biggest hits—think "Don’t Start Now," "Levitating," and "Physical"—and talk about what makes them such perfect tracks to get your groove on. We’ll also delve into the dance elements that make her music so infectious and even take a peek at her electrifying live performances. But that’s not all! I’ve got a fun surprise for you with my interesting fact of the week, plus a quick recap of something cool I forgot to mention about Snoop Dogg and the Olympics in my last episode. So, whether you’re tuning in while on a workout, driving, or just chilling at home, this episode is guaranteed to get you moving. And don’t forget, if you enjoy the episode, share it with your friends—let’s get everyone dancing to the beat of Dua Lipa!

SERVICE95

SONGS MENTIONED...

Don't Start Now
Physical
Levitating
Dance The Night
Love Again
Be The One
Electricity with Silk City
Hallucinate

Episode 49: The Evolution of Rap
Episode 51: Olympic Anthems and Their History

Transcript

Speaker A: 0:21

What's up, everybody? Welcome back to the music and me, the podcast where we dive into the beats and rhythms that move us. I'm your host, Harry, and today's episode is one I have absolutely been bursting with excitement to share with you. Why? Because we're talking about my all time favorite artist to dance to, the queen of dance pop herself, dua Lipa. But before we dive into that, I've got a little confession to make. In my excitement during last week's episode about the Olympics, I completely forgot to mention something super cool. Snoop Dogg has been part of the Olympics this year. I was so excited when I found out, because if you listen to my rap episode a few weeks ago, you already know how much I love him. And if you haven't listened to either episode yet, no worries. I'll link them both in the show notes so you can catch up on all the fun. Now, back to today's episode. Let me tell you how this episode came to be. It's kind of fitting for the episode if you think about it. Picture this. I'm in the middle of this killer Dua Lipa workout. Sweat pouring, feet moving faster than I thought possible. And suddenly it hits me. I've got to do an episode about this. Dua Lipa's music is pure magic for the dance floor. And whether you're a seasoned dancer or just like to groove in your living room, your bedroom, her songs have that undeniable power to get you moving. And in this episode, we're going to dive into Dua Lipa's background, explore how she's crafted some of the most irresistible dance tracks of our time and why her music is a must have on every playlist. So lace up your dancing shoes because we're about to get into it. And before we start, if you love what you hear today, do me a favor and share this podcast with your friends, your dance buddies, your workout partners, even that one friend who thinks they cant dance. Lets spread the love and get everyone moving to the beat. Okay, lets jump into the story of Dua Lipa, the pop sensation whos taken the world by storm with her danceable hits and magnetic energy. Dua Lipa was born on August 22, 1995 in London, but her roots trace back to Kosovo, where her parents are from. Her name, Dua, which means love in Albanian, was a perfect fit for someone destined to spread musical love across the globe. Growing up in London, Dua was surrounded by music from a young age, thanks to her father, who was a rock singer. Imagine growing up in a house where the guitar riffs and powerful vocals were just a part of daily life. That was Duas childhood. This early exposure to music planted the seeds of her future career. Her home was filled with a mix of western pop and her fathers rock influences, creating a diverse soundscape that would later shape her unique style. But life took a bit of a turn when Duo was eleven years old. Her family moved back to Kosovo and suddenly she found herself in a new world. Though the move was challenging, it only strengthened her resolve to pursue music. She stayed connected to her passion by singing and performing whenever she could, even in a new environment. But Lyndon was calling and Dua knew she had to return if she wanted to chase her dreams. At just 15, Dua made the bold decision to move back to London on her own, staying with a friend while she attended school and hustled to break into the music industry. It was a huge leap of faith, but Dua was determined. She started uploading cover songs on YouTube, showcasing her powerful voice and catching the attention of music fans. Her covers of artists like Alicia Keys and Christina Aguilera showed her vocal prowess and hinted at the star she would soon become. But here's where things get interesting. Before her music career took off, Dua decided to give modeling a shot. She was signed by a modeling agency, but it didn't take her long to realize that standing in front of the camera wasn't nearly as fulfilling as standing in front of a microphone. She missed the rush of performing and knew that her true calling was music. The experience wasnt wasted, though. Her time in the modeling world gave her confidence and a sense of style that would later complement her music career. In 2015, her persistence paid off when she signed with Warner Bros. Records. It was a dream come true, but also just the beginning. Her debut single, new love, didnt make a huge splash, but Dua didnt let that stop her. She kept pushing forward and soon after her single be the one became a breakout hit across Europe. I love that song. It was clear that something special was happening. Her sultry voice, combined with catchy, danceable beats was a winning formula. Musically, duas influences are as diverse as her background. Growing up, she listened to a wide range of artists, from the hip hop beats of Nellie Frittato and the bold, rebellious energy of pink to the genre blending sounds of outcast and the timeless pop of Madonna. So basically she listens to all kinds of music like I do, so I have something in common with dua lipa. How exciting. These influences seeped into her music, giving her songs a unique blend of pop r and b and dance elements. Her sound is a mix of the old and the new, the familiar and the fresh, a true reflection of her journey and the world she grew up in. Whats fascinating about Dua Lipa is how her diverse experiences have all come together to shape her music. Her time in Kosovo, her stint in modeling, and her early love for different musical genres all play a role in making her who she is today. Shes not just a pop star with a few catchy tunes. Shes an artist with a rich story, a global perspective, and a deep understanding of how music can move people both emotionally and physically. So from her early days in London and Kosovo to her rise on the global stage, Dua Lipas journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a love for music that knows no bounds. And its this journey that she channels into every beat, every lyric and every performance, making her music not just fun to listen to, but impossible not to dance to. And I know that for effect. Now lets get into the real groove, the evolution of dua Lipas signature dance pop sound that has everyone from nightclubs to living rooms buzzing with energy. Dua Lipa didnt just stumble into the dance pop scene. She strutted in, bringing with her a blend of pop, disco and electronic vibes that feel like a perfect cocktail for any party. Imagine sipping on a drink thats just the right mix of sweet and kick. Thats Duas music in a nutshell. Its got the pop hooks that stick in your head, the disco beats that make your feet move, and the electronic flair that adds a modern twist to it all. Her music style is like a time machine pulling from the past while sounding fresh and new. Listen to her tracks and you'll hear nods to the seventies disco era like in don't start now, where the bassline practically demands you get up and dance. Then there's the eighties inspired anthem physical, which is all about high energy and that irresistible synth heavy beat that that makes you feel like you're starring in your own retro music video. And let's not forget the electronic elements in songs like levitating with its cosmic beats and playful energy. It's like Dua is inviting us all to float up to the dance floor and stay there. But what really ties all these elements together is Dua's voice. It's sultry, powerful and just the right amount of edgy. Her voice isn't just there to deliver lyrics, its an instrument in itself, driving the beat forward and making you feel every note. Whether shes singing a slow, seductive verse or belting out a chorus that makes you want to throw your hands in the air. Duas voice is the heartbeat of her music, keeping the rhythm alive and the dance party going. Now lets talk about the secret sauce behind some of her most danceable tracks. Her collaborations with top tier producers. Dua Lipa is not just a solo act. Shes teamed up with some of the best in the business to craft her signature sound. Take Stuart Price, for example. This guy is a legend when it comes to creating dance floor magic. Hes worked with the likes of Madonna and Kylie Minogue. So you know, hes got the disco touch when he teamed up with Dua on tracks like Hallucinate. The result was pure euphoria, a song thats like a neon lit roller coaster ride through the best of disco and pop. Then theres Mark Ronson, the mastermind behind so many of the catchy tunes we love. When Dua and Mark got together, they didnt just make music, they created grooves. Their collaboration on tracks like Electricity with Silk City shows off a perfect fusion of Ronssens retro funk style with duas modern edge, resulting in a track that's impossible to sit still to. And let's not forget Diplo, the producer who can turn anything into a hit. With his knack for electronic beats and global sounds, Diplo brought a fresh, dance ready vibe to do as music, adding that extra bit of bounce that makes her tracks pop in all the right ways. These collaborations have been more than just partnerships. Theyve been creative powerhouses that have enhanced the danceability of Duas tracks, making them not just songs you listen to, but songs you feel in your bones. Dua Lipas evolution into a dance pop queen isnt just about catchy hooks and infectious beats. Its about blending the old with the new, the familiar with the unexpected, and creating music thats as much about the body as it is about the ears. Whether youre in your car at a party or just dancing around in your kitchen, her music is there to move you. And shes got the sound to keep you on your feet all night long. Now lets get to the nitty gritty of what makes Dua Lipas tracks so irresistible on the dance floor. Whether youre a seasoned dancer or just someone who loves to move, these songs are guaranteed to get your feet tapping in your body, swaying. So lets kick things off with the song that turned everyone into a disco diva. Dont start now. Released in 2019 as the lead single from her album Future Nostalgia, this track didnt just climb the charts, it rocketed to the top, becoming an anthem for anyone whos ever wanted to shake off the past and dance into the future. So what makes dont start now such a perfect dance track? For starters, its got that infectious, disco inspired beat that just makes you want to strut your stuff. The groove is tight, the tempo is upbeat, and the bassline, its like it was designed to make your feet move. The songs structure is all about building momentum. It starts with a cool, catchy verse that leads into a chorus that just explodes with energy. Duas voice dances effortlessly over the beat of guiding you through every twist and turn. And let's not forget the iconic breakdown where the music pulls back and then slams back in full force. It's the kind of moment that makes you want to throw your hands up in the air and let the music take over. Don't start now is the kind of song that you can't help but dance to. It's practically in its DNA. Next up we have levitating, a song that took over not just the charts, but social media too. This track has been everywhere, especially on TikTok, where people couldn't resist creating dance routines. To its catchy beats, levitating is like a burst of joy in musical form, with an upbeat rhythm that's impossible to resist, the song's secret sauce, that hypnotic beat and Dua's playful delivery. The chorus is pure pop perfection with lyrics that make you feel like you're floating on air. In this case, levitating. The rhythm is bouncy and light, making it the kind of song that just lifts your spirits and your feet off the ground. Whether you're dancing alone in your room or with friends at a party, this track brings the energy every single time. What really makes levitating stand out is its universal appeal. It's got that timeless feel that makes it perfect for any occasion. And the best part? Its one of those songs that just gets better the more you listen. The kind of track that turns any mundane moment into a dance party. Alright now lets crank up the energy with physical, a track that takes us straight back to the high octane vibes of the eighties. If levitating makes you float, physical makes you move. Inspired by the era of neon lights, leg warmers and aerobic workouts, this song is all about channeling that classic dance anthem spirit. From the very first beat, physical grabs you and doesn't let go. The driving tempo, the pounding drums and the electric sense create an atmosphere that's all about movement. It's a song that practically demands you get up and start dancing with a beat that gets your heart racing and your body grooving. Duas vocals are intense and commanding, urging you to come on, get physical. And how can you say no to that? I can't. It's one of my favorite duo songs to dance to. The choreography in the music video only adds to the song's appeal. It's high energy and perfectly complements the track's pulse pounding rhythm. Watching it makes you want to join in, turning your living room into a mini dance studio. Physical isn't just a song, it's an experience, one that captures the thrill of dancing like no one's watching. And Dua Lipa isn't slowing down anytime soon. Her recent releases continue to showcase her evolving sound while keeping the dance beats front and center. Take dance the night from the Barbie soundtrack, for example. Now this one is my favorite Dua Lipa song to dance to. As I've discussed in previous episodes, this track is a glittering slice of pop that's all about celebrating life and having fun. It's got a funky bassline, shimmering sense and a chorus that's impossible not to sing along to. And of course it's perfect for dancing. Dance the night channels that disco pop vibe that Dua has perfected, making it feel like a natural continuation of her future nostalgia eradic. But its not just a rehash, its fresh fun and fits perfectly with the colorful, upbeat world of Barbie. Another recent hit is Love Again, which combines a haunting orchestral sample with a dance beat thats both nostalgic and modern. Its a song that builds and builds, taking you on a journey that starts with a slow burn and ends in a full on dance explosion. Duas voice is front and center, carrying the song with a mix of emotion and power that makes you want to hit repeat again and again, which I have on all of her songs. Dua Lipa has an act for making songs that are not just fun to listen to, but designed for the dance floor. Whether shes channeling the past or pushing pop music into the future, her tracks have a way of getting under your skin and making you move. And as she continues to release new music, one things for sure, that dance party is far from over. Alright, I have some more to talk about, but first, here's my interesting fact of the week. Welcome to my interesting fact of the week. Did you know that Dua Lipa isn't just a music icon, but a fashion trailblazer too? Beyond her chart topping hits, Dua is known for her bold and daring fashion choices that make just as much of a statement as her music. She's not just wearing designer clothes, she's collaborating with fashion houses. One of her most notable partnerships is with the legendary brand Versace. Not only has she worked closely with them, but she also strutted down the Runway, proving she's just as fierce on the catwalk as she is on the stage. Her style is a blend of edgy and chic, and its no wonder shes become a muse for designers all over the world. But Duas influence doesnt stop at fashion. Shes also a co founder of a lifestyle and fashion newsletter called Service 95. This isnt your average newsletter. Its a weekly dose of global culture, fashion tips, and even some political insights. Service 95 reflects Duas broader interests beyond music, offering her fans a peek into her world and what inspires her. It's like getting a personal recommendation from Dua herself, whether it's about the latest must read book, a hidden gem of a restaurant, or a cause close to her heart. So whether you're looking to stay ahead of fashion trends or just curious about what makes Dua tick, service 95 is your go to source. I hope you enjoyed this interesting fact of the week. And now back to our episode. Welcome back, everybody. Alright, lets dive into the magic behind Dua Lipa's music. The stuff that turns a good song into a great dance track. You know that. The kind of music that makes you forget where you are and just move. Whether you're busting a move on the dance floor, getting through your morning workout, or having a solo dance party in your kitchen, doulas music has a special ingredient that keeps us all on our toes, literally. So what exactly makes Dua Lipa's song so danceable? Let's break it down. First, let's talk about those strong bass lines. These arent just background noise. Theyre the backbone of her music, the pulse that drives the beat forward and makes you want to move. Tracks like Dont start now and levitating have bass lines that grab you by the feet and dont let go. Theyre the kind of beats that you feel in your chest, the heartbeat of the song that syncs up with your own and compels you to dance. Then there are the catchy hooks. Dua has a knack for writing choruses that stick in your head for days, whether it's the irresistible I'm levitating from levitating or the empowering don't show up, don't come out from don't start now. These hooks are designed to get everyone singing along. And if you're singing, you're probably dancing too. And let's not forget the upbeat tempos that are the lifeblood of her music. Dua songs are fast enough to get your heart rate up but still groovy enough to make you feel like you're in control of every move. It's the perfect balance that makes her tracks ideal for everything from full on dance sessions to just tapping your foot along with the beat. But it's not just about the music. The lyrics play a big role, too. Duas lyrics are all about empowerment, freedom, and living your best life, which are exactly the kind of vibes you want when you're dancing. They set the tone, creating a mood thats as much about letting loose as it is about feeling good. When youre belting out the lyrics to physical, youre not just singing, youre channeling that fierce energy into every move. Dua Lipas music hasnt just made waves on the dance floor. Its made a massive splash and pop culture. Her songs are more than just tunes. Theyre movements that have sparked dance trends and inspired countless moments of joy and energy around the world. Take, for example, the viral dance challenges that have popped up around her songs on platforms like TikTok. When levitating dropped, it wasn't long before the Internet was flooded with people showing off their best moves. The song's catchy beat and easy to follow rhythm made it perfect for short, snappy dance routines that anyone could join in on. Before you knew it, everyone from professional dancers to your next door neighbor was getting in on the action. Her music also has found its way into workout playlists everywhere, like mine. If youve ever done a Dua Lipa inspired workout, you know what im talking about. I mean, I dance to her songs all the time. Her upbeat tempos and motivating lyrics make her tracks the perfect companion for sweating it out. Whether youre hitting the gym, going for a run, or just dancing around in your living room to burn some calories. Songs like physical are practically made for getting your heart pumping and your body moving. Its like shes cheering you on with every beat. Duas influence on pop culture doesnt stop there. Her songs have become anthems for everything from fashion shows to commercials, setting the tone for whats cool, fun, and danceable. She brought disco back into the spotlight, mixing it with modern pop to create a sound thats both nostalgic and cutting edge. It's no wonder her music has become a staple at parties, clubs, and pretty much anywhere people want to have a good time. So whether you're a seasoned dancer, a fitness enthusiast, or just someone who loves to groove. Dua Lipa's music has something for everyone. She's not just making songs. She's creating experiences that bring people together and get them moving. And in a world that could always use a little more joy and movement, that's a pretty amazing gift. Now let's talk about something that takes Dua Lipa's danceable music to the next level. Her live performances. If you've ever had the chance to see her in concert, you know that Dua isn't just a singer. She's a performer who knows how to bring the energy and get everyone in the crowd on their feet. I have not seen Dua Lipa live yet, but that would be awesome, and its on my bucket list. Dua Lipa's concerts are nothing short of electrifying. From the moment she steps onto the stage, that atmosphere is charged with excitement. She doesn't just sing her hits, she lives them, delivering each song with the kind of passion and intensity that makes you feel every beat in your bones. The lights, the choreography, the visual effects, it's all designed to pull you into her world and keep you dancing from start to finish. One of the best parts about a Dua Lipa concert is the audience interaction. She knows how to connect with her fans, whether it's by getting everyone to sing along, leading a dance break, or just sharing a moment with the crowd. There's a sense of togetherness at her shows, a feeling that we're all part of something bigger, a massive, joyous dance party that's happening right here, right now. And let's talk about the choreography. Duas dance moves are sharp, stylish, and full of attitude. And she makes it all look effortless. Her dance routines arent just about showing off her skills. Theyre about bringing the music to life and making sure everyone in the audience is having the time of their lives. Whether shes strutting across the stage during dont start now or hitting those iconic moves in physical, her performances are designed to get people moving, and they do. Dua Lipa's music doesn't just make you want to dance. It resonates with fans who find joy, confidence, and even a bit of empowerment in her tracks. Her songs have a way of speaking to the part of you that just wants to let go and have fun. And that's something her fans connect with on a deep level. There are countless stories of fans who have been inspired to dance because of Duas music. Fans like me. Her music just makes me dance. From people who have found their groove on the dance floor. To those who use her songs to power through a tough workout or lift their spirits on a bad day, Duas music has become a soundtrack for movement and joy. Take for example, the fan who shared a story about dancing to levitating in their living room during a tough time, feeling the stress melt away as they move to the beat. Or the group of friends who choreographed their own routine to physical and performed it at a party, turning a simple gathering into an unforgettable night. These aren't just songs, they're experiences that bring people together, lift them up and remind them of the power of dance. Dua's influence doesn't stop at the individual level either. Her music has inspired countless dance trends, from TikTok challenges to full on flash mobs. People of all ages, from all walks of life are finding ways to move and express themselves through her songs. Whether it's a viral dance craze or just a spontaneous dance off in the kitchen, Duas music is the catalyst for moments of pure joy and connection. And that's what makes her music so special. It's not just about the beats or the hooks, it's about how it makes you feel. When you listen to Dua Lipa, you're not just hearing music. You're experiencing a moment, a vibe, a celebration of life. And if that's not worth dancing to, I don't know what is. We've danced our way through Dua Lipa's story, grooved to her biggest hits, and felt the electric vibe of her live performances. Now it's time to wrap things up. But before we go, let's take one last spin around the dance floor. Dua Lipa isn't just a pop star. She's a movement, a force that makes us all want to get up and move no matter where we are. From her infectious beats to her empowering lyrics, she's given us the ultimate soundtrack to our lives and we couldn't be more grateful for it. I know I am. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or someone who just loves to groove in their living room, Duas music is there to lift you up, get you moving, and remind you to let loose. If youve enjoyed this episode as much as ive loved sharing it with you, why not spread the love once again, please share the podcast with your friends, your dance partners, or even that one person who needs a little Dua lipa in their life. Lets get everyone moving and grooving to the beats that make us feel alive. Alright, before we sign off, ive got something exciting coming up next week, we're taking a trip to Broadway for a special episode all about Broadway flops. Those shows that didn't quite hit the mark, but they're still fascinating to explore. I think it's going to be a lot of fun and very interesting, so be sure to tune in. Until then, keep those feet moving and that music in you alive. Peace out, everybody.