Lyrical dance is where emotion meets movement, where every step tells a story. It’s a fusion of ballet, jazz, and contemporary styles, but what truly sets it apart is the music—songs with deep meaning, raw emotion, and poetic lyrics that inspire dancers to express themselves fully. Whether you’re choreographing a routine, practicing in the studio, or just love the art form, having the right playlist is essential.
Here’s a curated list of lyrical dance essentials—songs that weave narratives through their melodies and lyrics, perfect for bringing movement to life.
Classic Lyrical Favorites
- "Hallelujah" – Jeff Buckley (or Leonard Cohen) A timeless ballad of love and loss, perfect for expressive, fluid movements.
- "Gravity" – Sara Bareilles An emotional anthem about surrender and strength, ideal for dramatic choreography.
- "Skinny Love" – Birdy Hauntingly beautiful, this song captures fragility and heartache in every note.
Modern Storytellers
- "All I Want" – Kodaline A raw, soaring melody that speaks to longing and vulnerability.
- "Arcade" – Duncan Laurence Melancholic yet powerful, this Eurovision winner is a lyrical goldmine.
- "Someone You Loved" – Lewis Capaldi A heart-wrenching ballad that demands emotional precision in movement.
Unexpected Gems
- "Breathe Me" – Sia Minimalist yet deeply evocative, perfect for intimate, introspective pieces.
- "The Night We Met" – Lord Huron A nostalgic, dreamy track that lends itself to wistful storytelling.
- "Say Something" – A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera A duet of quiet devastation, ideal for partner work.
Upbeat Lyrical (Yes, It Exists!)
- "Runaway" – Aurora Ethereal yet rhythmic, this song blends whimsy with emotional depth.
- "You Say" – Lauren Daigle Uplifting and powerful, great for themes of self-discovery.
- "Shallow" – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper A dynamic duet that builds from soft to soaring.
The beauty of lyrical dance lies in its ability to transform music into motion—each song a new story, each movement a word unspoken. Whether you’re drawn to heartbreak, hope, or something in between, these tracks will help you craft something unforgettable.
What’s on your lyrical dance playlist? Drop your favorites in the comments!
