Top Mixing References Every Engineer Should Check | AnjaleeMusic’s Playlist Breakdown

 

AnjaleeMusic’s Mixing Choices : References for Mixing Engineers

When it comes to mixing, the magic often comes from choosing the right reference tracks. Referencing is not about copying..it’s about training your ears, understanding tonal balance, and shaping dynamics. AnjaleeMusic’s favorite mixing references span pop, R&B, hip-hop, reggaeton, EDM, and jazz fusion, making them perfect guides for any mixing engineer. 

  "I love Serban Ghenea. He’s my favorite mixing engineer! His mixes are always so polished, dynamic, and full of energy. Studying his work on tracks is truly inspiring.We’ve just started mixing,but my dream is to mix like 'Serban Ghenea' someday."

- C M Anjalee Panawala (AnjaleeMusic)

 Note: Mixing engineer names for some tracks are not officially confirmed online, so they are not included here to ensure accuracy. 

PLAYLIST 

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 Beyoncé – Run the World (Girls)

• Mixing Highlight: Hard-hitting drums dominate while Beyoncé’s powerful vocal stays crystal clear.

• Pro Mixing Insight: Use transient shaping and vocal EQ boosts to keep energy and clarity alive in dense mixes.

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 Dua Lipa – Don’t Start Now

• Mixing Highlight: A groovy bassline locks in with the kick, while Dua’s vocal sparkles on top.

• Studio Lesson: Carve EQ space between bass and kick, and add subtle side-chain compression for punch and tightness.

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 Rihanna – Rude Boy

• Mixing Highlight: Dancehall-inspired percussion fills the stereo field without masking Rihanna’s vocal.

• Pro Mixing Insight: Creative panning and stereo widening give rhythm depth while keeping the lead vocal upfront.

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 Alicia Keys – Un-thinkable (I’m Ready)

• Mixing Highlight: Love how it starts. Warm, soulful vocal delivery surrounded by lush, emotional keys.

• Studio Lesson: Gentle compression, smooth EQ curves, and reverb tailored for intimacy bring emotion to the mix.

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 Future – Mask Off

• Mixing Highlight: Iconic flute sample contrasts beautifully against booming 808s.

• Mix Reference Point: Balance melodic samples with heavy low-end using EQ carving and tasteful saturation.

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 Bad Bunny – Yo Perreo Sola

• Mixing Highlight: Punchy reggaeton rhythm drives the track while vocals remain tight and clear.

• Pro Mixing Insight: Consistent vocal levels can be achieved with automation and multiband compression.

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 J Balvin & Willy William – Mi Gente

• Mixing Highlight: Energetic synths and rhythmic vocal chops create a party-ready atmosphere.

• Studio Lesson: Widen background elements for energy, but keep the lead vocal and kick firmly centered.

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 DVBBS & Borgeous – Tsunami

• Mixing Highlight: Explosive drops powered by layered synths and thunderous low-end.

• Pro Mixing Insight: Control sub frequencies precisely and apply limiting carefully to maintain loudness without distortion.

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 Snarky Puppy – Lingus

• Mixing Highlight: Every instrument breathes, even in a dense live arrangement.

• Mix Reference Point: Use EQ separation, panning, and dynamics to keep clarity across complex instrument layers.

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 Justin Timberlake – Suit & Tie

• Mixing Highlight: Smooth, polished vocals sit perfectly over crisp percussion and layered harmonies.

• Pro Mixing Insight: Pay attention to vocal layering, stereo width, and subtle effects like reverb and delay to create a sophisticated, radio-ready mix.  

AnjaleeMusic’s mixing references are a goldmine for engineers. From Beyoncé’s anthems to Justin Timberlake's Suit & Tie, these tracks highlight everything from vocal clarity to low-end power. For mixing engineers, studying them is not just about listening.. it’s about learning how to shape world-class, professional mixes.

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