Swing dancing isn’t just about the steps—it’s about the music. The right tunes can turn a good dance into an unforgettable one, whether you’re a Lindy Hop enthusiast, a Balboa aficionado, or a Charleston lover. But with decades of iconic tracks to choose from, where do you start? We’ve curated the ultimate playlist of must-have swing music for dancers, blending timeless classics with modern gems that keep the spirit of swing alive.
Classic Big Band Era
These tracks are the backbone of any swing playlist, straight from the golden age of jazz:
- “Sing, Sing, Sing” – Benny Goodman (The anthem of swing—energetic and impossible to resist.)
- “Jumpin’ at the Woodside” – Count Basie (A fast-paced favorite for Lindy Hoppers.)
- “Take the ‘A’ Train” – Duke Ellington (Smooth, sophisticated, and perfect for Balboa.)
Modern Swing Revivals
Contemporary artists keeping the swing spirit fresh:
- “Bubble Bath” – Jonathan Stout & His Campus Five (A lively, guitar-driven track with vintage flair.)
- “Everybody Loves My Baby” – Postmodern Jukebox ft. Haley Reinhart (A sultry, slowed-down twist on a classic.)
- “Zoot Suit Riot” – Cherry Poppin’ Daddies (High-energy neo-swing for late-night dances.)
Hidden Gems & Crowd-Pleasers
Lesser-known tracks that always get dancers on the floor:
- “T’aint What You Do” – Jimmie Lunceford (A playful, mid-tempo gem for social dancing.)
- “Shout, Sister, Shout!” – Lucky Millinder (A roaring, gospel-infused swing number.)
- “Flat Foot Floogie” – Slim Gaillard (Quirky, fun, and full of character.)
Pro Tips for Your Playlist
Mix Tempos
Balance fast songs (“Flight of the Foo Birds” – Count Basie) with slower grooves (“All of Me” – Billie Holiday) to give dancers room to breathe.
Embrace Live Recordings
Tracks like “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön” – The Andrew Sisters (Live) capture the raw energy of swing that studio versions sometimes lack.
Whether you’re DJ’ing a dance night or just craving that irresistible swing feel, this playlist has you covered. Now put on your dancing shoes, press play, and let the music move you—because as Ella Fitzgerald once sang, “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing!”
