Selects: MJ Cole

Selects is where the world’s best DJs and producers showcase their favorite tracks of any given moment, new and old, with no format restrictions. This edition was compiled by MJ Cole, who embraces everything from R&B to jazz and pop, electronic music to introspective alternative, ambient, and classical—all alongside some of the UK DJ/producer’s own tracks. That lineup feels fitting for an artist who was classically trained before helping to pioneer 2-step and UK garage in the ’90s, as well as working with and remixing artists including Mary J. Blige, Katy B, De La Soul, and Amy Winehouse. “My musical life has never made sense on paper,” Cole tells Apple Music. “Grilling up garage tracks with pirate radio DJs then playing cocktail piano for Princess Diana that evening. Raving at [London rave series] Fun City until 6 am, then sitting in a Royal College of Music lesson three hours later.” It’s why his playlist runs the “full spectrum” with, he says, “the most delicate piano music alongside the most visceral electronic. No apology for either.”