The Best Walk-Out Songs for Work Events in 2024

The ambiance of a corporate event is shaped by its audio visual elements. One of the most important moments at any event is when the speaker walks out and their entrance song plays. Choosing the right walk-out song can have a big impact on how your audience feels and how they remember this all-important moment. What type of emotional response do you want them to have?

November 1, 2024

The right walk-out song can transform an ordinary event into an extraordinary experience. It's the musical backdrop that sets the tone, energizes the audience, and highlights the most pivotal moments at your event. In 2024, event planners are raising the bar by carefully curating playlists that resonate with diverse crowds and create lasting impressions. Let's explore some of the hottest walk-out songs for work events that are taking the industry by storm.

Why Walk-Out Songs Matter

Walk-up songs play a pivotal role in setting the ambiance and capturing the essence of an event. Recognizing the importance of walk-out songs is key to making sure that your event begins on a note that resonates and remains memorable.

Here’s why walk-on songs for corporate events are so important:

They Create Emotional Impact

The music you choose directly affects the mood of your event. A high-energy song pumps up the crowd, while a softer tune sets a more reflective tone. The walk-out songs you choose should complement the other audio visual elements at your event such as lighting, audio enhancement, and images and videos.

They’re Your Chance To Make a First Impression

Your walk-out song is often the first thing your audience experiences. It's your chance to make a lasting impression. A well-chosen song not only grabs attention but also communicates something about the event or the person making the entrance.

They Encourage Audience Engagement

The best walk-up songs engage the audience right away. It eliminates awkward silences and fills the room with energy. When the audience is engaged from the start, they're more likely to stay attentive throughout the event. They can also help your speaker feel more confident and energized for their presentation.

They Make a Closing Impact

Walk-off songs can be just as important as walk-out songs. They can serve as an exclamation point at the end of a presentation. For upbeat talks, choose a walk-off song that maintains the same level of energy. If the presentation had an emotional close, pick a song that echoes the speaker's passion and reinforces the message.

Adrenaline-Pumping Anthems

  1. “Can't Hold Us” (Feat. Ray Dalton) by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

Walk-out songs for work events should be recognizable and catchy. This track is a real crowd-pleaser. It's got that memorable piano riff that sticks with you, and Macklemore's verses about chasing dreams really hit home. When the chorus kicks in, it's hard not to feel inspired. It's a great choice for making an entrance that'll get everyone's energy up.

  1. “More” by Usher

Usher delivers a dance floor favorite with this one. It's all about living life to the fullest and always wanting more. The beat is infectious - your audience will find themselves moving along without even realizing it. If you're aiming to set a tone of excitement for the night ahead at your corporate event, this song does the job perfectly.

  1. “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars takes us back to the funk era in this catchy track, and he does it brilliantly. It feels like stepping into the best party of a bygone decade, but with a modern edge. From the moment those opening synths start, you know it's time to have fun. This walk-out song really captures the spirit of celebration and good times.

Retro Throwbacks

  1. “Immigrant Song” by Led Zeppelin

This hard-hitting rock anthem is instantly recognizable to a broad audience with its iconic opening wail. It's got a driving beat and powerful vocals that are sure to grab your audience’s attention right away. Far from funky, it's more likely to make you want to conquer a small country than hit the dance floor. It's perfect for adding some serious energy and a touch of Viking spirit to any work event.

  1. “Back in Black” by AC/DC

This classic track infuses pure, unadulterated rock and roll to any event. It kicks off with one of the most famous guitar riffs in history, and the energy never lets up from there. There's nothing funky about this track - it's all attitude and raw power. It's the kind of walk-out song that makes you want to put on a leather jacket and nod your head, even if you're at a black-tie event. It’s the perfect walk-out song for corporate event planners looking to create a bold, rebellious entrance for their speakers.

  1. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson

The iconic bassline of this tune and Michael Jackson's legendary dance moves make this walk-out song ideal for captivating audiences with a touch of nostalgia and an undeniable cool factor. Your audience won’t be able to stop themselves from moving and swaying to this familiar, catchy track, making it one of the greatest walk-up songs out there.

Contemporary Bangers

  1. “Unstoppable” by The Score

Motivation and determination pulse through every beat of "Unstoppable." With its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus, you can't help but feel ready to conquer any challenge. It's not your typical pop song, leaning more towards modern rock, but the energetic vibe resonates with anyone needing a confidence boost. Ideal for rallying a crowd or psyching yourself up before a big moment, this walk-out song is sure to make a powerful first impression.

  1. “As It Was” by Harry Styles

Harry Styles delivers a subtle yet upbeat tune with "As It Was." On your first listen, the catchy melody might make you want to dance, but pay attention to the lyrics and you'll catch the underlying melancholy. It's a clever mix of '80s nostalgia and contemporary pop that's both fresh and familiar. This track is especially recognizable with younger audiences. It’s perfect for when you want something youthful and catchy, yet also thoughtful.

  1. "I'm Good (Blue)” [Extended] (Clean Version) by David Guetta & Bebe Rexha

Guetta and Rexha breathe new life into a '90s classic with this reimagining of Eiffel 65's "Blue (Da Ba Dee)." Bebe Rexha’s powerful vocals soar over Guetta's pulsing EDM beats, creating a feeling of moving on and feeling free. It’s a fresh take on a classic, making it ideal for diverse audiences. This walk-out song is sure to pack the dance floor, especially for those who remember jamming to the original back in the day.

Global Grooves

  1. “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee

This infectious Latin hit transcends language barriers, creating a multicultural experience that appeals to global audiences. It feels fresh and contemporary, but still has a traditional Latin flavor which evokes a touch of nostalgia for audiences of all ages.

  1. “Butter” by BTS

With its catchy hook and irresistible K-pop flair, this dance-friendly track is a surefire way to captivate audiences with its international appeal. Although this tune has that distinct K-pop sound, its English lyrics make it accessible to broad audiences. This is the ideal walk-out song for presentations that involve a touch of light-hearted humor.

  1. “Levitating” by Dua Lipa

This contemporary track blends pop and dance elements, creating a global sound that resonates with diverse audiences and sets the stage for a high-energy event. It has all the elements of a classic Europop tune, but its worldwide popularity makes it a recognizable walk-out song for any audience. Dua Lipa’s energetic vocals add an extra pop of enthusiasm, making this song the perfect choice for interactive presentations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Walk-Out Song

Selecting the best walk-out song for an event is a nuanced process that extends beyond mere personal taste. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Presentation Topic 

Choose a song that aligns with the theme or subject of the presentation. For instance, if the talk is about finances, consider a track like "Money" by Pink Floyd. For a presentation on ambitious goals, "Dream On" by Aerosmith could be fitting. A thematic connection can further engage and excite your audience.

Familiarity 

Stick with well-known songs that resonate with the majority of your audience. Avoid niche tracks that might not be recognized, since this can diminish the impact of the entrance.

Technical Timing

Cue your songs to start at the right moment, avoiding slow intros or outros. The impactful part of the song should coincide with the speaker's entrance, creating a seamless and powerful moment. You also want to ensure your walk-out song is timed in a way that complements other audio visual elements.

Event Theme

The song should match the overall theme of the event. A mismatch can create confusion or even discomfort among the audience. Be sure that the song also compliments the tone and energy of the speaker. For example, you don’t want to introduce a more serious or emotional topic with a carefree dance track.

Audience Demographics

Consider the age, culture, and musical preferences of your audience. A song that resonates with one group might not work for another.

Duration and Timing

The song shouldn't be too long or too short. It should last just long enough to accompany the entrance but not so long that it delays the event.

Lyrics vs Instrumental

Lyrics can add meaning, but they may also risk misinterpretation. Instrumentals are safer but can lack the emotional punch that lyrics provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a license to play a walk-out song at an event?

Yes, you need a license. Playing copyrighted walk-out songs at corporate events or other public arenas requires permission from the holder of the copyright. This permission can generally be obtained via a license from organizations like ASCAP or BMI.

Can you customize a walk-out song?

Yes! While many event planners choose to keep the songs as they are, some enlist the help of a DJ to remix songs or even add customized lyrics and instrumentals. This isn’t necessary but it can add some extra flair and interest to a corporate work event.

What is the most popular walk-up song?

The most popular walk-up songs for work events include:

  • "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
  • “Levitating” by Dua Lipa
  • “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
  • “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars
  • “24k Magic” by Bruno Mars
  • “Happy” by Pherell Williams
  • “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC
  • “Stronger” by Kanye West

Set the Stage at Your Event With the Perfect Walk Out Song

The strategic selection of walk-out songs is crucial in setting the tone for any event. However, the true impact of a walk-out song is magnified when paired with impeccable event production. That’s where Catalyst comes in.

From live streaming and virtual events to traditional AV services, we seamlessly integrate the perfect soundtrack with cutting-edge technology, elevating the overall experience.

Whether you're planning a corporate event, product launch, or private function, the synergy of the right music and Catalyst's expertise can transform your vision into an unforgettable reality. Get ready to make a lasting impression and leave your audience humming long after the curtains close.