Lyrical dance thrives on raw emotion—every movement tells a story, and the right music can elevate your choreography to unforgettable heights. Whether you're a dancer, teacher, or simply love the art form, these tracks are handpicked for their poetic depth, dynamic phrasing, and ability to inspire expressive performances. Here’s a curated list of the best emotional tracks for lyrical dance in 2025.
1. "Gravity" – Sara Bareilles
A timeless choice, Sara Bareilles' haunting piano melodies and vulnerable lyrics about love and loss make "Gravity" a staple for lyrical routines. The swelling chorus is perfect for dramatic leaps and fluid floorwork.
2. "Arcade" – Duncan Laurence (Orchestral Version)
The orchestral remake of this Eurovision winner adds cinematic grandeur to its heart-wrenching theme of unrequited love. Ideal for storytelling choreography with sharp contrasts between soft and powerful movements.
3. "Visions of Gideon" – Sufjan Stevens
From the Call Me By Your Name soundtrack, this ethereal track builds slowly, allowing dancers to explore subtlety before erupting into emotional climaxes. Perfect for duets or solos about longing.
4. "The Night We Met" – Lord Huron (feat. Phoebe Bridgers)
Melancholic and nostalgic, this indie-folk ballad’s layered harmonies create a dreamlike quality. Use it for routines about memory, regret, or bittersweet farewells.
5. "Lose You to Love Me" – Selena Gomez (Piano Cover)
Stripped-down piano covers of pop hits often work beautifully for lyrical, and this one transforms Selena’s breakup anthem into a raw, intimate piece. Great for controlled, nuanced movement.
6. "Turning Page" – Sleeping at Last
With its delicate strings and poetic lyrics, this track feels like a love letter in motion. The 3/4 time signature lends itself to graceful turns and sweeping gestures.
7. "Breathe Me" – Sia
A classic for a reason—Sia’s fragile vocals paired with minimalist production create space for dancers to embody vulnerability. Build your routine around the song’s crescendo for maximum impact.
8. "Fourth of July" – Sufjan Stevens
A devastating conversation about mortality, this track’s sparse arrangement and whispered vocals demand emotional authenticity. Ideal for mature, introspective choreography.
9. "All I Want" – Kodaline (Live Version)
The live recording’s raw energy and audience hum add texture to this already emotional ballad. Use it for group pieces about connection or resilience.
10. "Saturn" – Sleeping at Last
Celestial metaphors and a soaring orchestral arrangement make this a showstopper for competition pieces. The lyrics about self-discovery pair well with expansive, reaching movements.
Pro Tips for Choreographing to Emotional Tracks:
- Let the lyrics guide you: Highlight key phrases with gestures or directional changes.
- Play with dynamics: Contrast sharp hits with sustained movements to mirror the music’s ebb and flow.
- Edit thoughtfully: Trim tracks to maintain emotional intensity without losing narrative flow.
- Layer meaning: Use props (scarves, chairs) to deepen the story if the song feels abstract.
Music is the soul of lyrical dance. Whether you’re competing, performing, or just exploring movement, these tracks will help you channel emotion into every step. Have a favorite we missed? Drop it in the comments—we’re always hunting for the next breathtaking piece!
