Square dancing isn’t just about fancy footwork—it’s about the music that makes your boots stomp and your heart race! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the do-si-do, the right tunes can turn a simple dance into an unforgettable hoedown. Here’s our handpicked list of the top square dance tunes guaranteed to get your feet moving.
1. "Turkey in the Straw" (Traditional)
A timeless classic, this fiddle-heavy favorite is a staple at square dances nationwide. Its upbeat tempo and playful melody make it perfect for promenades and allemandes.
2. "Cotton-Eyed Joe" (Rednex Version)
This modernized folk anthem blends electric energy with traditional square dance flair. Warning: You will end up clapping along!
3. "Orange Blossom Special" (Johnny Cash Cover)
Dubbed the "fiddle player’s national anthem," this breakneck-speed bluegrass tune turns any dance floor into a whirlwind of swinging skirts and spinning partners.
4. "Soldier’s Joy" (Traditional)
With roots in 18th-century Ireland, this instrumental gem is a caller’s dream—clear rhythms, infectious energy, and a melody that sticks in your head for days.
5. "Wildwood Flower" (The Carter Family)
A slower but no-less-charming option for waltz sequences or breathers between high-energy sets. The harmonies alone will give you chills.
6. "Devil’s Dream" (Fiddle Standard)
True to its name, this rapid-fire tune will have dancers laughing as they scramble to keep up. Ideal for advanced groups looking for a challenge!
7. "Sugarfoot Rag" (Hank Garland)
A Nashville-style barn-burner that blends country twang with square dance precision. The guitar licks here are pure magic.
Pro Tip: Many modern square dance bands are remixing these classics with drum machines or synth accents—don’t be afraid to experiment with new versions!
What’s your go-to square dance song? Tag us on social media with your favorite tune and your best do-si-do video—we’ll feature our favorites!
