Creating the Perfect Party Playlist -

One thing can make or break a party, and that is the music. Have you ever been to a fun party but the music was terrible and that killed your mood? I have. And I took that into consideration when I planned my first Halloween party. I literally created a playlist weeks in advance, and it turned out to be a big hit.

On the verge of yet another weekend, here is some advice when taking into consideration what songs to add to your playlist to make your party poppin.’

Know your audience

You obviously want to appeal to your audience and assure that they are having fun and enjoying the music. If you have an audience of Taylor Swift lovers, sorry, but you should probably include some Taylor Swift. Ask some friends what they’d most like to hear to get a general feel of things.

On my playlist: “Hotline Bling,” “Jumpman”

Add some of your own personal favorites

Yes, the main goal is to appeal to your audience, but you also have to endure a few hours of your own party so make sure you enjoy what’s being played!

On my playlist: “Jugg,” “Boyz-n-the-Hood”

Make sure your music is danceable

It’s always best to add music that is topping the charts because people will most likely recognize those songs. However, some of the Top 40 songs are better to be listened to while riding down the highway. For example, Justin Bieber is fantastic, but not all of his songs are totally danceable. That’s okay — pick one that is.

On my playlist: “Sorry”

Add some throwbacks

There is nothing that brings a room of strangers together quite like nostalgia, so including some throwback songs is always a good idea. How far you decide to throw it back is up to you.

On my playlist: “California Love,” “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)”

Add some slow songs

I don’t mean those annoying slow songs that remind you of your middle school dance days. We’re in college now, meaning there needs to be some PG-13 grind music for the couples.

On my playlist: “Pony,” “Grind With Me”

Know your theme

Themes are always fun. Are you having a 90s theme party? Old-school hip-hop? Halloween or Christmas party? Make sure you include songs to fit your theme.

On my (Halloween) playlist: “Thriller”

Be open to suggestions

Have a friend help you make the playlist if you run out of ideas. During the party, if people have song requests, definitely take advantage of that!

(Eventually) added to my playlist: “Danza Kuduro”

Keep the party live

Your number one job as host is to make sure people are having fun. If you notice that people stop dancing or get bored, change the song! Monitor people’s moods. If you’re trying to get more people to dance, you can never go wrong with an upbeat hip-hop song.

On my playlist: “Throw Sum Mo”

Here's a sample playlist while you're still getting on your feet as the perfect party host.