Close your eyes and imagine cruising down a neon-lit California highway, windows down, with a synth-soaked anthem blaring through the speakers. That’s the vibe of Neon Wake’s cover of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” a dance-pop gem that takes Whitney Houston’s ‘80s classic and gives it a glossy, indie-pop makeover. This track is pure nostalgia with a modern edge, and trust me—you’re gonna want to hit repeat. Let’s break down why Franky’s latest release as Neon Wake is the perfect blend of retro feels and dancefloor energy.
A Fresh Spin on an ‘80s Classic
Right from the start, Neon Wake’s cover grabs you with its pulsing synths and crisp production. Franky, the mastermind behind this California-based indie pop project, describes the sound as NOTD-inspired, and you can totally hear it in the track’s shimmering textures and late-night drive. The section from 2:56 to 3:30, as Franky suggests, captures the song’s core vibe—think emotional swells, driving beats, and a melody that tugs at your heartstrings. But don’t sleep on the drop after the first chorus; it’s a euphoric burst of energy that screams, “Get up and dance!”
What makes this cover stand out is how it balances nostalgia with freshness. The original’s danceable heart is still there, but Neon Wake layers in indie-pop elements like moody synths and a melancholic undertone that give it a 2025 edge. It’s the kind of track that feels like a love letter to the ‘80s while fitting perfectly into today’s synthpop and dance-pop playlists. The production is polished yet raw, with just enough emotional drive to make you feel like you’re dancing through a heartbreak. Whether you’re vibing at a club or blasting it during a solo night drive, this song hits all the right spots.
Meet Franky, the Heart of Neon Wake
Neon Wake is the brainchild of Franky, a California-based artist who’s no stranger to the music scene. As a seasoned session musician (keys) in Los Angeles, Franky’s worked behind the scenes, but now he’s stepping into the spotlight with his own project. His sound is a lovechild of ‘80s nostalgia and modern pop energy, drawing inspiration from acts like NOTD, Nightly, and The 1975. If you’re into music that’s equal parts introspective and danceable, Neon Wake is your new obsession.
Franky’s mission is simple: make music that connects. His songs are for late-night drives,“emotional spirals,” and anyone who’s ever felt too much at once. That raw, relatable energy shines through in “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” which feels like a celebration and a confession all at once. In a world where retro revival is dominating pop—think Dua Lipa and The Weeknd’s ‘80s-inspired hits—Neon Wake’s cover feels like the perfect addition to the trend, with a unique indie-pop twist that sets it apart.
Why This Track Is a Must-Listen
If you’re a sucker for synthpop, dance-pop, or anything with a retro-modern vibe, this cover is calling your name. The way Neon Wake transforms a beloved classic into something fresh yet familiar is pure magic. It’s the kind of song you’ll want to share with friends, blast at a party, or add to your “midnight feels” playlist. Plus, that drop after the first chorus? It’s the kind of moment that makes you want to dance like nobody’s watching.
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So, what’s your take on Neon Wake’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”? Are you feeling the retro vibes, or is that post-chorus drop stealing the show? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about it. Don’t forget to share this post with your music-loving crew—this track deserves to be everywhere!