KATERINA X opens her record box to reveal 10 tracks that continually inspire her sets and shape her musical vision. From hypnotic deep house to transformative melodic moments, these songs reflect the moods, textures and emotional landscapes that inform her performances and productions. A multi-platinum songwriter, DJ, vocalist and producer, KATERINA X approaches music as a space for connection, movement and storytelling. Whether she is behind the decks at iconic venues across Ibiza, London or Dubai, or crafting tracks like her latest single ‘Crave Me’, these selections are more than personal favourites. They are tools for creating shared moments on the dancefloor, blending groove, emotion and euphoria in ways that are both intimate and otherworldly.
1. Rüfüs du Sol – Innerbloom – Sweat it out
This is one of those rare tracks that transcends genre and moment. “Innerbloom” creates a deep emotional connection on the dancefloor, whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or a peak-time moment. RÜFÜS DU SOL were also my first and biggest inspiration to explore the live electronic artist route. I discovered them the year before this release and even went to see them alone while in Los Angeles in 2016 because I felt like I had to experience them live.
For me, “Innerbloom” is a cosmic journey; it feels like it’s flying you through the stars while embracing you at the same time. It creates a rare balance of pure euphoria and stillness on the dancefloor.
2. Birds of Mind – Mi Pena – Get Physical
“Mi Pena” carries a beautiful, hypnotic and sensual energy that feels effortless yet powerful. The loopy female Spanish vocals, paired with a deep house bassline, give a nod to classic Balearic influences, which I’m always drawn to. I love using it to shift the energy in a set into a more sensual moment without losing the groove. It pulls people closer while still keeping them moving. It really reflects the more organic, emotive side of my musical identity.
3. Modjo – Lady – Sound of Barclay
A timeless classic that always works. No matter the crowd or setting, “Lady” brings an instant sense of familiarity and joy. It’s nostalgic without ever feeling dated, and it effortlessly bridges generations on the dancefloor. I love dropping it unexpectedly in deeper sets; it creates a moment of connection where everyone suddenly locks in and sings along. Tracks like this have a cult-like quality; they unite and uplift the crowd in a way very few records can, which makes it a reliable tool in any set.
4. Demayä- You are – Calamar records
“You Are” is one of those tracks that feels effortlessly powerful. It sits firmly within the Afro house space, with driving percussion, a super catchy bassline melody and a hypnotic rhythm that instantly locks people in. There’s a depth to it that feels classy and always lands with impact.
I love using it in the peak part of my set, when the crowd is fully with you and ready to go deeper. It creates a powerful, almost tribal energy where people are completely immersed in the moment. There’s a simplicity to the production that I really love, but what’s there hits hard and grabs you instantly.
5. Guy Gerber – What To Do (Guy Gerber & Dor Danino Remix) – RUMORS
This remix has a brighter, more uplifting energy than the original, with melodic and indie dance influences, a vibe I’m always drawn to. It’s hypnotic and groovy, with a recognisable, catchy vocal that instantly connects. I use it when I want to lift the dancefloor and bring a fresh burst of energy without losing depth. It’s an instant “mood raiser” and incredibly effective. It creates space for the crowd to get lost in the rhythm while still keeping momentum.
6. Adriatique & WhoMadeWho – Miracle (RÜFÜS DU SOL Remix) – Rose Avene
The original was a monster hit and an undeniable banger, but I’m drawn more to this remix for its percussive drive and forward momentum; it simply works better in my sets. WhoMadeWho have been one of my favourite artists over the past 7–10 years, and the collaboration with Adriatique and RÜFÜS DU SOL brings a unique kind of magic from all three worlds.
This is a mid-to-peak moment in my set; it’s deep, yet still lifts the energy emotionally while maintaining control of the dancefloor. It creates that perfect balance between movement and feeling, which is something I’m always aiming for.
7. Sailor & I & Âme – Turn around ( Âme remix ) – Life and Death
Âme rarely miss, and this remix is a staple for a reason. It’s driving yet deeply emotional, with a groove that builds steadily without ever feeling forced. I love how it balances tension and release. It works across different points in a set and always feels refined and sophisticated. What makes it so powerful is its structure. Opening without a kick for over four minutes is bold and unusual, shifting the focus onto the vocal and emotion. When the beat finally comes in, it enhances rather than overwhelms, creating a beautifully controlled release.
8. Frankie Knuckles- Your love (Alan Dixon Love Attack Remix)
Reworking a classic like “Your Love” is never easy, but this remix strikes the perfect balance. It respects the legacy of Frankie Knuckles while injecting a fresh, modern energy that works seamlessly in today’s sets. I love incorporating moments like this; it brings a sense of nostalgia and playfulness, while still keeping the dancefloor fully engaged. There’s a familiarity in the vocal that instantly connects, but the updated production keeps it feeling current. It’s a reminder of where the music comes from, which is something I try to honour in my sets.
9. Juno – Heat – Magnifik music.
“Heat” has this understated energy that slowly sneaks up on you. It’s not about big drops, it’s about groove, texture and repetition. I like using it when I want to begin lifting the energy, especially in deeper sets. It keeps the dancefloor engaged without ever overwhelming it, making it incredibly versatile. The main synth melody never lets up, while the filtering adds subtle dynamics, creating a constant earworm that stays with you long after the track ends.
10. The Temper Trap – Sweet Disposition (Undercatt Remix) – 2DIY4
This remix transforms an iconic indie track into a true dancefloor weapon without losing any of its original soul. The emotion in the vocal, combined with the driving, melodic production, creates a genuinely powerful moment in a set. It’s one of those rare tracks that connects beyond genre. It draws people in emotionally while still maintaining energy and momentum on the floor. I find it especially effective when bridging between melodic and more vocal-led moments.
KATERINA X’s latest single, ‘Crave Me’, is out now on More Than A Feeling, inviting listeners to step into her world and experience the hypnotic energy that defines her sound. Stream & Purchase here.
