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!
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Recommended dance tracks. Classic dance music (1–10)
HappyPharrell Williams
It’s a song that celebrates positive emotions.
Released in November 2013 as part of the soundtrack for the film Despicable Me 2, it was later included on Pharrell Williams’s album Girl.
It captured hearts around the world, reaching number one on the charts in over 20 countries.
It’s also very popular among dancers and is known as a fun track to dance to.
The music video, featuring people around town happily stepping to the rhythm as they walk, is a joy to watch.
With simple lyrics and an upbeat melody, it’s a track that lifts the listener’s spirits.
Highly recommended for dance practice or whenever you want to boost your mood.
SorryJustin Bieber
An energetic and catchy track that fuses dancehall pop and tropical house.
The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of admitting mistakes and apologizing, resonate with many people.
Released in October 2015, it is included on Justin Bieber’s fourth album, Purpose.
Symbolizing Bieber’s growth and transformation, the song is embraced by a wide range of age groups.
Its EDM beats and reggaeton rhythms blend seamlessly, creating a dance-floor igniter that has been beloved in the dance scene—so much so that many renowned dancers abroad have used it.
Big BreakdownNEW!Hans & Candy Dulfer
“Big Breakdown” is a classic by Candy Dulfer and Hans Dulfer, whose funky saxophone sound really elevates rock dance.
It’s a track frequently used for rock dance, so you’ll find many rock dance videos set to it on YouTube.
Its funkiness, along with the exquisite sax and drum performances, fits rock dance perfectly—highly recommended for dancing rock to this tune!
Lucky StrikeNEW!Maroon 5
Maroon 5 is a Western band that’s also popular in Japan.
Among their songs, “Lucky Strike” is especially popular in the dance scene and pairs well with rock dance.
It’s an uptempo track in the pop/rock/dance vein, featuring strikingly rhythmic drums and guitar.
The four-on-the-floor beat that makes you want to move feels great, and many dancers have probably danced to this song at least once.
In rock dance as well, it’s a wonderful track where its hallmark elements—stops and a strong sense of rhythm—really shine.
Played-A-LiveNEW!Safri Duo
In locking, the “LOCK” refers to stopping after dynamic movements, and Safri Duo’s “Played-A-Live” is a perfect track to showcase that characteristic.
In the dance/electronic genre, what stands out is the percussion with its striking shifts in intensity.
That very percussion suits locking perfectly—it stops suddenly and pairs seamlessly with the idea of “LOCK.” Since it’s dance music, be sure to enjoy the rhythm that will make you want to move your body!
Shape of YouEd Sheeran
Ed Sheeran, who hails from the UK, has now become one of the world’s leading singers.
Many of his songs are based on dance music, and this track also features an appealing, danceable beat.
It seems like a perfect song to dance hip-hop to.
Uptown Funk ft.Bruno MarsMark Ronson
It’s a masterpiece that revived the classic funk-disco sound for the modern era.
Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars deliver lyrics celebrating a confident, stylish way of life over an irresistibly catchy melody.
Released in November 2014, it topped charts around the world.
The electrifying dance performance by Beyoncé and Bruno Mars at Super Bowl 50 drew huge attention, and the song also won a Grammy.
It’s the kind of track that makes your body move before you know it—an essential for parties and dance floors.
Joyful and light on its feet yet undeniably powerful, this music is perfect for lifting your mood, like strutting through the city with a spring in your step.