Lyrical dance thrives on emotion, storytelling, and the seamless blend of movement and music. Whether you're choreographing a competition piece or simply craving inspiration, the right song can elevate your performance from beautiful to unforgettable. Here’s a curated list of must-have songs that embody the heart and power of lyrical dance.
1. "Gravity" – Sara Bareilles
A timeless choice for lyrical dancers, Sara’s haunting piano melodies and raw vulnerability in Gravity create the perfect backdrop for fluid, emotional movement. Ideal for themes of love, loss, or surrender.
2. "Turning Page" – Sleeping At Last
Soft, cinematic, and achingly tender, this song builds like a wave—perfect for slow, controlled extensions or sweeping turns. Its orchestral swells make it a favorite for wedding or coming-of-age routines.
3. "Breathe Me" – Sia
Sia’s fragile vocals and crescendoing instrumentals in Breathe Me demand vulnerability. Use it for pieces about healing, isolation, or self-discovery, and let the music guide your dynamics.
4. "She Used to Be Mine" – Sara Bareilles
From the musical Waitress, this ballad is a masterclass in storytelling. Its bittersweet lyrics and soaring climax work beautifully for lyrical pieces about resilience or personal transformation.
5. "Skinny Love" – Birdy
Birdy’s stripped-down cover of Bon Iver’s classic is hauntingly delicate. The pauses and piano chords create natural moments for suspension and breath, making it ideal for intimate, introspective choreography.
6. "Arcade" – Duncan Laurence (Orchestral Version)
The orchestral arrangement of this Eurovision winner adds cinematic depth. Its melancholic yet hopeful tone suits lyrical routines about longing or overcoming adversity.
7. "All I Want" – Kodaline
A modern anthem for emotional storytelling, All I Want builds from soft verses to a powerful chorus. Use it for group pieces or solos that explore connection or heartbreak.
8. "The Night We Met" – Lord Huron
Dreamy and nostalgic, this indie-folk gem is perfect for lyrical pieces with a wistful, ethereal quality. Think floating turns, slow falls, and weighted emotion.
9. "Fix You" – Coldplay (Piano/Cello Cover)
While the original is iconic, instrumental covers (like The Piano Guys’ version) highlight the song’s emotional arc without lyrics, giving dancers room to interpret the melody freely.
10. "Unsteady" – X Ambassadors
This song’s pulsing rhythm and raw lyrics about instability make it a standout for contemporary-lyrical fusion. Play with off-balance movements and sharp contrasts to mirror its tension.
Pro Tips for Choreography:
- Let the lyrics guide you: Highlight key phrases with gestures or pauses.
- Play with dynamics: Match soft verses with sustained movement and explosive choruses with leaps or turns.
- Edit thoughtfully: Trim songs to keep the most impactful sections (e.g., 2:30–3:30 minutes for competitions).
Whether you're dancing for competition, artistry, or pure joy, these songs will help you channel the soul-stirring power of lyrical. Now press play—and let the music move you.
