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Recommended club and dance music

Recommended dance tracks. Classic dance music.

While dance music keeps evolving, there are many tracks that continue to be strongly supported.

In this article, from a dancer’s perspective, I’ll introduce the ultimate classics—tracks that sparked huge reactions and paved the way for new foundations in dance.

If you’re interested in dance, of course, but even if you’re not, I’m sure there are songs here you’ve heard before.

If you’re unsure what music to use for practice, you can’t go wrong with these tracks—so read to the end and use them as a reference!

Recommended dance tracks: Classic dance music (11–20)

That’s What I LikeBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – That’s What I Like [Official Music Video]
That’s What I LikeBruno Mars

This is a song by Bruno Mars, who has now become one of the world’s leading singers.

Its funky style and robot-like dance moves became a hot topic.

Many of his songs are dance tracks, and most of them are very famous, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out.

Smooth CriminalMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Smooth Criminal (Official Video)
Smooth CriminalMichael Jackson

This is a signature work by Michael Jackson, known as the King of Pop.

Released in 1988, it remains beloved by many as a staple of dance music.

Featuring lyrics that tell the story of a woman caught up in crime and a dynamic beat, it has left a lasting impact.

In Japan as well, many artists have been inspired by Jackson’s singing and dancing.

The music video showcases the “zero gravity” move—which looks physically impossible—drawing worldwide attention.

It’s a perfect track for dance practice or for anyone seeking energetic music.

loveHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)
loveHoshino Gen

This is a song that drew attention as the theme for the TV drama “We Married as a Job” (Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu).

Released in October 2016, it became a social phenomenon.

The track is memorable for Gen Hoshino’s warm vocals and its pop sound.

The lyrics express the uniquely Japanese emotion of “koi” (romantic love) and carry a message that affirms diverse forms of love.

The “Koi Dance” that went viral spread through social media, sparking a wave of people dancing along.

Choreographed by MIKIKO, the distinctive hand-focused vogueing matches the song perfectly.

It’s a great pick not only for those practicing the dance but also when you want to feel bright and positive.

CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake – CAN’T STOP THE FEELING! (from DreamWorks Animation’s “TROLLS”) (Official Video)
CAN'T STOP THE FEELING!Justin Timberlake

Known for setting dance floors ablaze, this track was released in May 2016.

Written for the film “Trolls,” it features a bright, energetic sound that blends pop and R&B.

The lyrics convey the importance of fully embracing and enjoying the small joys of everyday life, clearly reflecting Justin Timberlake’s sentiments.

It was highly acclaimed, earning nominations for both the Grammys and the Academy Awards.

Overseas, it’s a staple for flash mob dances.

It’s also beloved across dance scenes, used by many dancers.

It’s perfect not only for people who love dancing, but also for times when you want to boost your mood or share a sense of fun.

PolyrhythmPerfume

Perfume “Polyrhythm” from the live DVD “Perfume LIVE @ Tokyo Dome”
PolyrhythmPerfume

It’s a song packed with the charm of technopop.

With environmental protection as its theme, the lyrics impressively portray emotions and feelings continuing to circulate.

The complex rhythms and distinctive sounds seem to symbolize the cycles of love and human relationships.

Released in September 2007, it was also used as a campaign commercial song for NHK and the Public Advertising Organization.

It was featured as an insert song in the Pixar film Cars 2, making it popular across a wide range of generations.

The choreography features relatively simple foundational steps that beginners can easily imitate, and is characterized by dance that emphasizes Perfume’s signature hand lines, showcasing their appeal.

It’s a track that stays close to the listener’s heart.

PERFECT HUMANRADIO FISH

【MV】PERFECT HUMAN / RADIO FISH
PERFECT HUMANRADIO FISH

It’s a song that became a hot topic after the comedy duo Oriental Radio announced it.

Although it was originally used as part of their comedy routine, its memorable dance went viral and it quickly became a staple dance track.

Incidentally, among the members of RADIO FISH dancing in the background is Mr.

Nakata’s biological younger brother.

Recommended dance tracks: Classic dance music (21–30)

YeahUsher

Usher – Yeah! (Official Video) ft. Lil Jon, Ludacris
YeahUsher

This song is by the R&B singer Usher, and it features a different style from his previous work, yet it remains hugely popular.

In the promotional video he’s dancing in a club, and in real life it’s also an absolute staple in clubs.

The main track is incredibly cool, and I think most people have probably heard this dance track somewhere, at least faintly.