Contemporary dance is an art form that thrives on emotion, fluidity, and connection. It’s a genre that transcends boundaries, blending movement with music to create something truly magical. Whether you’re a dancer, choreographer, or simply a lover of the arts, the right music can elevate your experience and inspire your creativity. Here’s a curated playlist of tracks that embody the essence of contemporary dance—music that moves your soul and fuels your passion.
1. "Weightless" by Marconi Union
Known as one of the most relaxing songs ever created, "Weightless" is a perfect choice for contemporary dance. Its ethereal tones and slow, evolving rhythms allow dancers to explore fluidity and grace. This track is ideal for routines that emphasize emotional depth and connection.
2. "Breathe Me" by Sia
A hauntingly beautiful track, "Breathe Me" has been a staple in contemporary dance for years. Sia’s raw vocals and the song’s melancholic melody make it a powerful choice for choreography that tells a story or conveys vulnerability.
3. "To Build a Home" by The Cinematic Orchestra
This orchestral masterpiece is a favorite among contemporary dancers. Its sweeping strings and poignant lyrics create an emotional landscape that’s perfect for expressive, narrative-driven routines. It’s a song that feels like a journey, making it ideal for longer performances.
4. "Runaway" by Aurora
Aurora’s ethereal voice and the dreamy production of "Runaway" make it a standout track for contemporary dance. The song’s themes of freedom and self-discovery resonate deeply, inspiring movements that are both powerful and delicate.
5. "Clair de Lune" by Claude Debussy
A timeless classic, "Clair de Lune" is a go-to for contemporary dancers seeking elegance and sophistication. Its gentle piano melody evokes a sense of nostalgia and beauty, making it perfect for routines that require precision and emotional nuance.
6. "Skinny Love" by Birdy
Birdy’s stripped-down cover of Bon Iver’s "Skinny Love" is a contemporary dance favorite. The raw emotion in her voice and the simplicity of the piano accompaniment create a deeply intimate atmosphere, ideal for choreography that explores themes of love and loss.
7. "Oceans" by Hillsong UNITED
With its soaring vocals and spiritual undertones, "Oceans" is a powerful choice for contemporary dance. The song’s crescendos and emotional peaks make it perfect for routines that build in intensity, allowing dancers to fully express their passion and energy.
8. "River Flows in You" by Yiruma
Yiruma’s piano compositions are a staple in the contemporary dance world, and "River Flows in You" is no exception. Its gentle, flowing melody is perfect for routines that emphasize fluidity and connection, creating a serene and captivating performance.
9. "Say Something" by A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera
This emotional duet is a powerful choice for contemporary dance. The song’s themes of heartbreak and longing resonate deeply, making it ideal for choreography that tells a story of love and loss.
10. "Latch (Acoustic)" by Sam Smith
Sam Smith’s soulful voice shines in this acoustic version of "Latch." The stripped-back arrangement allows the emotion in the lyrics to take center stage, making it a great choice for contemporary routines that focus on intimacy and connection.
Contemporary dance is all about expressing the inexpressible, and the right music can make all the difference. Whether you’re choreographing a routine or simply looking for inspiration, this playlist offers a diverse range of tracks that capture the essence of the genre. Let the music move you, and let your soul guide your movements.
