Mark Ronson Reveals influential Tracks, From Aaliyah‘s Groundbreaking Sound to Lil’ Kim‘s “Club Crack”
DJ and producer Mark Ronson recently shared a selection of songs that have deeply impacted his musical journey, ranging from formative early influences to tracks that forged key creative connections. Teh selections, revealed during Rolling Stone’s Song Shuffle segment, offer a glimpse into the sonic landscape that shaped Ronson’s acclaimed production style and collaborative spirit.
Ronson began the Song shuffle with Aaliyah’s “One in a Million,” recalling the profound effect the album of the same name had on him upon its release. He described the innovative production by Timbaland and Missy Elliott as ”fucking everybody’s head up” and a vision of “the future,” praising Aaliyah’s voice and image alongside the groundbreaking sound.Ronson remembered starting to DJ around the time Aaliyah’s “Back & Forth” was released, noting its popularity as a party song, but emphasizing the revolutionary impact of “One in a Million.”
He recounted the experience of first hearing the record at home, describing the bass as ”rumbling” through his floor and the overall sound as “so modern and crazy, like scary.” Ronson also highlighted Soul for Real’s “Candy Rain” as a song that helped him connect with Bruno Mars when they first met. He described Lil’ Kim’s “Crush on You” as “club crack,” a record with undeniable energy.
Ronson further included tracks by the Brand New Heavies and encouraged listeners to explore “Suzanne” by Raye, a song he co-produced.These selections collectively illustrate the diverse range of influences that have informed Ronson’s celebrated career.
