Lyrical dance thrives on emotional storytelling, blending ballet's grace with contemporary's raw energy. The right track can elevate choreography from beautiful to unforgettable—here are the songs inspiring dancers this season.
Modern Ballads with Cinematic Sweep
"Gravity" (Orchestral Version) – Sara Bareilles
That iconic piano line now swells with strings, perfect for dramatic partner work and floor sequences. The 2024 reimagining adds 30 seconds of instrumental build ideal for crescendo moments.
"Silhouettes" – Aquilo
Moody electronic undertones meet soaring vocals. Use the pulsing beat for sharp contractions contrasting with the ethereal chorus.
Viral Covers Worth Choreographing
"Running Up That Hill" (Epic Strings Cover) – Brooklyn Duo
This classical take on the Kate Bush classic has become a competition staple. The tempo shift at 2:17 creates a stunning moment for aerial turns.
"Hallelujah" (Female A Cappella Version) – Pentatonix
The layered harmonies in the 2025 re-release offer new opportunities for group choreography with canon movement.
Emerging Artists to Watch
"Paper Wings" – LÉON
Swedish indie-pop with a driving rhythm. The pre-chorus pause at 1:42 begs for a suspended développé.
"Fault Line" – Tom Odell
Raw, percussive piano builds to a cathartic release—ideal for contemporary-lyrical fusion pieces about resilience.
Choreographer's Toolkit
- Use tempo mapping apps like DanceBPM to visualize song structure
- Look for breath sounds in vocals—natural moments for suspension
- Edit tracks to highlight instrumental breaks for technical sequences
"The best lyrical songs feel like they're dancing with you—their phrasing suggests movement before you even begin choreographing." — Mariah K., Dance Magazine
Remember: while these picks are trending now, timeless lyrical dance connects to your emotional truth. Let the music choose you as much as you choose it.
