Whether you're practicing your swing-outs or tearing up the social dance floor, the right music can make all the difference in your Lindy Hop experience. Here's a curated list of timeless classics and contemporary gems that will keep your feet moving and your spirit soaring.
Classic Swing Era Must-Haves
These golden oldies defined the Lindy Hop era and continue to inspire dancers today:
- "Jumpin' at the Woodside" - Count Basie (The quintessential fast Lindy track)
- "Shiny Stockings" - Ella Fitzgerald & Count Basie (Perfect for smooth, flowing movements)
- "Flying Home" - Lionel Hampton (High-energy with an infectious groove)
- "T'aint What You Do" - Jimmie Lunceford (Great for playful, musical dancing)
- "Bei Mir Bist Du Schön" - The Andrews Sisters (A swing-era favorite with Yiddish roots)
Modern Swing Revival Gems
Contemporary artists keeping the Lindy spirit alive with fresh interpretations:
- "Choo Choo Ch'Boogie" - The Speakeasies' Swing Band (Modern recording with vintage feel)
- "Zoot Suit Riot" - Cherry Poppin' Daddies (90s neo-swing at its best)
- "Minnie the Moocher" - Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (Cab Calloway classic reimagined)
- "Jump Through the Window" - Eli "Paperboy" Reed (Soulful modern swing)
- "Everybody Loves My Baby" - Squirrel Nut Zippers (Hot jazz revival)
Unexpected Lindy Hop Favorites
These tracks might surprise you with how well they work for Lindy:
- "Hound Dog" - Big Mama Thornton (Original blues version swings hard)
- "Candyman" - Christina Aguilera (Yes, really - try the swing remix!)
- "Seven Nation Army" - The White Stripes (Slowed down swing version)
- "Bad Bad News" - Leon Bridges (Modern soul with swing feel)
- "Bang Bang" - Willie Dixon (Blues that swings perfectly)
Slow & Bluesy Lindy Songs
For those sultry, connection-focused moments:
- "Stormy Weather" - Ethel Waters
- "St. James Infirmary" - Louis Armstrong
- "I'm Gonna Lock My Heart" - Billie Holiday
- "Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives to Me" - Sidney Bechet
- "Trouble in Mind" - Dinah Washington
Keep the Music (and Your Feet) Moving
The beauty of Lindy Hop is how it adapts to so many musical interpretations while staying true to its roots. Whether you prefer the authentic sounds of the 1930s or enjoy mixing in contemporary tracks, let the music guide your movement and inspire your creativity. The most important thing? Have fun and keep swinging!
What are your favorite Lindy Hop songs? Share them in the comments below!
