Lyrical dance is a beautiful fusion of ballet, jazz, and contemporary styles, where movement is driven by emotion and storytelling. The music you choose for lyrical dance is just as important as the choreography itself—it sets the tone, evokes feelings, and inspires the dancer to express themselves fully. Whether you're a dancer, choreographer, or simply a lover of lyrical dance, this ultimate playlist is designed to ignite your creativity and bring out the grace and expression in every step.
1. Emotional Ballads
Ballads are the heart and soul of lyrical dance. Their slow tempo and heartfelt lyrics allow dancers to connect deeply with the music. Here are a few timeless ballads to add to your playlist:
- "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen or Jeff Buckley
- "All of Me" by John Legend
- "Skinny Love" by Birdy
- "Say Something" by A Great Big World ft. Christina Aguilera
These songs are perfect for creating emotional, introspective pieces that resonate with audiences.
2. Cinematic Instrumentals
Instrumental tracks from movies or classical compositions can elevate your lyrical dance to a whole new level. The absence of lyrics allows the dancer to interpret the music freely, making it ideal for storytelling through movement. Consider these:
- "Time" by Hans Zimmer (from Inception)
- "Comptine d'un autre été" by Yann Tiersen (from Amélie)
- "River Flows in You" by Yiruma
- "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy
These pieces are rich in texture and emotion, perfect for creating dramatic and visually stunning performances.
3. Modern Pop with a Lyrical Twist
Modern pop songs, especially those with emotional depth, can be reimagined for lyrical dance. Slowed-down or acoustic versions of popular tracks often work best. Add these to your playlist:
- "Someone You Loved" by Lewis Capaldi
- "Dancing On My Own" by Calum Scott
- "Stay" by Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko
- "Fix You" by Coldplay
These songs bring a contemporary edge to lyrical dance while maintaining the emotional connection that defines the style.
4. Ethereal and Atmospheric Tracks
For a dreamy, otherworldly vibe, ethereal and atmospheric music is a must. These tracks often feature haunting vocals, soft piano, or ambient sounds that create a mesmerizing backdrop for lyrical dance. Try these:
- "Breathe Me" by Sia
- "To Build a Home" by The Cinematic Orchestra
- "Weightless" by Marconi Union
- "Run" by Ludovico Einaudi
These songs are perfect for creating a sense of flow and fluidity in your choreography.
5. Powerful Anthems
Sometimes, lyrical dance calls for a powerful, uplifting anthem that builds to an emotional crescendo. These songs are ideal for creating impactful, high-energy performances:
- "Rise Up" by Andra Day
- "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten
- "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri
- "You Say" by Lauren Daigle
These tracks are perfect for moments of triumph, resilience, and hope in your dance.
Lyrical dance is all about expressing emotion and telling a story through movement. The right music can elevate your performance, helping you connect with your audience on a deeper level. Whether you're drawn to emotional ballads, cinematic instrumentals, or modern pop, this playlist has something for every lyrical dancer. So, turn up the volume, let the music move you, and dance like no one is watching.
