Lyrical dance thrives on emotion, storytelling, and fluidity—so the right music is everything. Whether you're choreographing for competition, class, or pure artistic expression, these tracks blend haunting melodies, evocative lyrics, and dynamic phrasing to inspire movement that speaks to the soul. Here’s our curated list of top music picks for lyrical dance in 2025.

"Glimpse of Us" – Joji (Orchestral Cover)

A heart-wrenching piano-driven rendition of Joji’s hit, perfect for themes of longing and lost love. The swelling strings and vulnerable vocals create a canvas for slow, sustained movements and explosive emotional releases.

"Oceans & Engines" – NIKI (Live Acoustic Version)

NIKI’s raw, breathy vocals and poetic lyrics about love and separation make this a standout for contemporary lyrical pieces. The acoustic arrangement leaves space for intricate gestural storytelling.

"Vampire" – Olivia Rodrigo (Strings Remix)

Dark, dramatic, and dripping with emotion, this remix strips back the pop production for a cinematic sound. Ideal for choreography exploring betrayal or inner turmoil with sharp contrasts between soft and powerful movement.

"Unknown / Nth" – Hozier

Hozier’s soul-stirring voice and metaphorical lyrics about vulnerability pair beautifully with organic, grounded choreography. The song’s crescendo begs for a climactic sequence of turns and leaps.

"The Alcott" – The National ft. Taylor Swift

A melancholic duet dripping with narrative tension. The push-and-pull dynamic between voices lends itself to partner work or solo pieces about connection and missed chances.

"My Love Mine All Mine" – Mitski (Chamber Orchestra Version)

Mitski’s existential lyrics take on new depth with this orchestral reimagining. The waltz-like rhythm invites sweeping floorwork and delicate port de bras.

Pro Choreographer Tips:

  • Layer textures: Use songs with dynamic builds (e.g., Billie Eilish’s "What Was I Made For?" with gradual instrumentation) to structure your choreographic arcs.
  • Edit fearlessly: Trim repetitive choruses or splice instrumental breaks from different versions (like these royalty-free stems) to customize your track.
  • Lyrics matter: Choose words that align with your story—every "I" or "you" in the music can become a direct gesture to the audience.

Want more? Dive into our Spotify playlist: "Lyrical Dance 2025 – Emotion Overload" for 30+ handpicked tracks updated monthly. Now go turn those feels into movement!