Recommended club and dance music

[2026] Iconic and Popular Songs for Super-Cool Breakdance [Breaking]

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

Born in the South Bronx of New York in the 1970s, the street dance known as breaking.

Also widely known as breakdancing, breaking has deep ties to music—especially hip-hop—and has played an important role in street culture.

More recently, it was officially recognized as a competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Some younger people may have become interested in breakdancing after watching the Olympics.

For those readers, this article rounds up essential classic tracks that are inseparable from the history of breaking.

We also feature many of the songs used at the Paris Olympics, so be sure to check them out!

[2026] Super Cool Classic and Popular Breakdance Tracks [Breakin’] (51–60)

U.F.OESG

ESG – U.F.O

U.F.OESG

This track, known for its distinctive funk beat and simple melody, was released in 1981 by ESG, a girls’ group from the Bronx, New York.

Blending elements of electronic funk and post-punk, it features a danceable rhythm.

It has had cross-genre influence, being widely sampled in hip-hop and dance music.

The song is also known as a breakdancing classic and was used in the breaking events at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Its energetic vibe makes it perfect for anyone who loves to dance or enjoys club music.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Break DownTony B

Break Down (Extended H.D. Club Mix)

Break DownTony B

Because beat matching to the music is highly valued in breakdancing, tracks with lots of accents are used frequently.

Of course, those kinds of songs have their own appeal, but four-on-the-floor styles like house are also attractive.

House music in breakdancing pairs extremely well with stylish moves, and dancers who excel at intricate footwork look especially cool when they dance to house.

This track, “Break Down,” isn’t particularly famous, but since it’s house music with a fair number of accents, I decided to feature it this time.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

BOOM!The Roots

BOOM!

BOOM!The Roots

Characterized by powerful, energetic beats, this track is included on The Roots’ album “The Tipping Point,” released in July 2004.

Blending razor-sharp lyrics with a distinctive sound, it reaffirms the essence of hip-hop.

Black Thought’s rap—replete with masterful wordplay and metaphor—is truly artistic.

While asserting his stature in the hip-hop world, the lyrics depict competition with rivals in a way that irresistibly captivates listeners.

Paired with its dynamic sound, it’s no surprise this song is a staple for breakdancing.

It was even used in the breaking event at the Paris Olympics, so be sure to give it another listen!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Think (About It)Lyn Collins

Think (About It)

Think (About It)Lyn Collins

This is a track by Lyn Collins, an American singer whom James Brown called the “Female Preacher.” The shouted “Yeah! Woo!” and the drums you hear in this song are, in fact, the very elements that changed the course of later hip-hop and dance music.

It’s said to be one of the most sampled recordings in the world, and it continues to breathe its spirit into countless hits even today.

Listen to this track and you’ll think, “So this was the secret behind that song’s coolness,” opening a new door to music.

You won’t be able to resist moving to a beat that’s loved across generations.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Straight Outta ComptonN.W.A

N.W.A. – Straight Outta Compton (Official Music Video)

Straight Outta ComptonN.W.A

N.W.A, the legendary group you can’t avoid when talking about hip-hop.

They’re hugely popular among Japanese listeners as well.

Their track “Straight Outta Compton” is hailed as a classic among their works, packed to the brim with old-school appeal.

From a breakdancing perspective, it rides an easy-to-feel eight-beat, making it a great recommendation for beginners.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem