Drum Sheet – Dua Lipa – Levitating

“Levitating” by Dua Lipa is one of the standout tracks from her 2020 album Future Nostalgia, a project that redefined modern pop with a bold, retro flair. Released as a single in October 2020, the song quickly became a global hit—thanks in large part to its irresistible beat, funk-infused energy, and disco-inspired production. For fans of drums, “Levitating” is a rhythmic gem that fuses old-school grooves with sharp modern precision.

Dua Lipa co-wrote the song with Clarence Coffee Jr., Sarah Hudson, and Stephen “Koz” Kozmeniuk, who also produced it alongside Stuart Price (a name known for his work with Madonna and The Killers). The goal was to capture the spirit of 1980s dance-pop while keeping things fresh and futuristic. “Levitating” was actually one of the last songs written for the album, and Lipa has said she wanted something that “sounded like pure joy.”

The drums are at the heart of that joyful energy. While programmed, the beat is deeply inspired by live disco drumming—think Chic or Daft Punk—with a tight four-on-the-floor kick, syncopated hi-hats, and crisp snare hits that give the track a clean, punchy drive. The rhythm never lets up; it propels the song forward like a glittery roller-skate jam. For drum fans, the groove is a brilliant mix of precision and fun, with tiny percussive details adding color without clutter.

“Levitating” became a highlight of Dua Lipa’s Studio 2054 livestream performance, where she performed it live with full choreography and dazzling visuals—leaning into the track’s retro-futuristic theme. Later, it featured in her massive Future Nostalgia Tour, with live drums giving even more punch to the beat. The song’s remix featuring DaBaby gave it even more exposure in the U.S., though the original version remains the favorite for many fans and DJs.

Ultimately, “Levitating” is a masterclass in how rhythm shapes emotion. Every beat invites movement, every drum element is precisely placed. For those who love groove-based drumming that’s both danceable and sleek, this track is a modern classic. It doesn’t just ask you to listen—it makes you move. And in the world of pop percussion, that’s the highest praise.