In our Talent Profiles series, we shine a light on some of the most talented names that MN2S has worked with. This week, we’re spotlighting three legendary Eurodance acts.
Snap!
Snap! is a German Eurodance group that was formed in 1989 by producers Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti. The group gained international success in the early 1990s with their hit singles “The Power” and “Rhythm Is a Dancer,” which topped charts in multiple countries. “The Power” was released in 1990 and became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. The song featured rapper Turbo B on vocals and incorporated samples from “Let the Words Flow” by Chill Rob G and “King of the Beats” by Mantronix.
In 1992, Snap! released “Rhythm Is a Dancer,” which also featured Turbo B on vocals and became another international hit, reaching number one in multiple countries including the UK, Germany, and the US. The song was noted for its catchy hook and the use of a sampled chord progression from the 1987 hit “Autumn Leaves” by the French pianist Yves Montand.
Snap! continued to release albums and singles throughout the 1990s, with their music incorporating elements of house, techno, and hip-hop. In recent years, Snap!’s music has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with their songs being sampled and remixed by contemporary artists. Their legacy in the Eurodance genre continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Livin’ Joy
Livin’ Joy is an Italian house music group that was formed in 1994 by producers Paolo Visnadi and Gianni Visnadi, along with vocalist Tameka Starr. The group gained international success in the mid-1990s with their hit singles “Dreamer” and “Don’t Stop Movin’.”
“Dreamer” was released in 1994 and became Livin’ Joy’s breakthrough hit. The song reached the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK, where it stayed at number one for one week. The song featured a sample of the hook from “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire and showcased Starr’s powerful vocals. In 1996, Livin’ Joy released their second album, “Don’t Stop Movin’,” which featured the title track as its lead single. The song was another international hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK and Italy. The album also spawned other successful singles such as “Where Can I Find Love” and “Follow the Rules.”
After the success of “Don’t Stop Movin’,” Livin’ Joy continued to release music throughout the late 1990s, with subsequent albums such as “Greatest Hits” and “Don’t Stop Movin’ (Remixes)” showcasing their versatility and range in the house music genre. Livin’ Joy’s music continues to be revered by fans of the house music genre, and their legacy as pioneers of the genre has left a lasting impact on the dance music scene. Despite lineup changes and various hiatuses over the years, Livin’ Joy’s music remains a staple of club playlists and continues to excite new crowds with each performance.
Haddaway
Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Nestor Alexander Haddaway grew up in Europe and began his music career in the late 1980s performing in clubs and venues in Cologne, Germany. However, his international breakthrough came in 1993 with his hit single “What Is Love,” which quickly became a chart-topping sensation across the globe and cemented Haddaway’s status as a leading Eurodance and pop music artist.
With his soulful vocals, driving beats, and catchy melodies, Haddaway continued to release hit singles throughout the 1990s, including “Life,” “Rock My Heart,” and “Fly Away,” the latter of which was featured on his second album, “The Drive,” released in 1995. Despite changes in lineup and various musical ventures, Haddaway’s music has remained popular and enduring. His songs have been sampled and remixed by modern artists, and his influence on the Eurodance and pop music genres continues to be felt today.
With his unique voice and distinct sound, Haddaway remains a beloved and iconic figure in the world of Eurodance and pop music. His music serves as a testament to the power of infectious melodies and danceable beats, inspiring fans and artists alike to keep moving to the rhythm of his timeless tunes.