Electronic music is one of the most popular music genres around. In fact, MixMag estimates that it has 1.5 billion listeners across the globe — more than pop and hip-hop combined. Now, we can’t talk about electronic music without mentioning one of the top acts during the genre’s heyday in the early 2010s: Bingo Players.
Formerly a duo made up of record producer Maarten Hoogstraten and the late Paul Bäumer, Bingo Players are best known for their feel-good anthems — which were essential on every European dance floor. To this day, they continue to be staples at EDM festivals and on the DJ Mag Top 100. And whether you’re a long-time listener or a new fan, you are probably curious about their name. But as revealed in Music Radar’s interview with Hoogstraten in 2015, the meaning isn’t all that deep. “It’s just a name. We saw it, we liked it, we kept it,” said the artist.
Whether it was intentional or not, the duo were named after the traditional game of bingo — one of the most popular past times in the world. Foxy Bingo’s article on the history of bingo explains that it has been a hit since the late 1770s. The game’s origins can even be traced back to the 1500s in Italy. Indeed, it’s been a mainstay in popular culture for centuries, but has never really been associated with electronic music — until recently. And we wouldn’t be surprised if Bingo Players’ unique name has actually helped people get into the game over the years.
By now, you probably want to learn more about this iconic Dutch dance duo. To get you started, we’ve put together a list of our top five songs!
Get Up (Rattle)
“Get Up” is a remix of the group’s song “Rattle,” but is inarguably a more elevated version. While it features similar elements to the original, the addition of vocals from American hip-hop group Far East Movement and captivating synths really pushed the song to the next level.
Don’t Blame the Party
Similar to “Get Up,” this track was also released earlier as an instrumental song. “Don’t Blame the Party” features American singer-songwriter Heather Bright on vocals. If you’re looking for straightforward EDM songs with catchy lyrics, then this is the track for you. The Bingo Players managed to create a song that blends elements of progressive house with dance music.
Out of My Mind
“Out of My Mind” is a great introductory track if you want to know what Bingo Players are all about. If there’s one thing that this group can do, it’s write euphoric club anthems. Everything — from the lead synths to the pounding drum beat — is crafted to get you on your feet.
I Know This Club
While “I Know This Club” is one of the latest additions to Bingo Players’ discography, it has quickly become one of the best songs they’ve ever released. The song’s energizing vibe (enhanced by Ida Corr’s soulful vocals) instantly transports listeners to an exciting dance floor.
Cry (Just A Little)
Even people who have never heard of the Bingo Players are familiar with the group’s biggest hit “Cry (Just A Little)”. Aside from the song’s catchy beats, it also encapsulates the duo’s unique style. The track features a sample from the 1988 soul hit “Piano in the Dark” by Brenda Russell.
If you enjoyed this article and want to discover more artists, check out our latest pop coverage on Scandipop.
