Tap dance is all about rhythm, creativity, and connection—to the music, the floor, and the audience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hoofer, the right playlist can elevate your practice, performance, or just your love for the craft. Here’s a curated list of must-have songs that every tap dancer should have in their rotation.
Classic Jazz Standards
These timeless tunes are the backbone of tap history, perfect for mastering traditional rhythms.
- "Sing, Sing, Sing" – Benny Goodman
- "It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)" – Duke Ellington
- "Jumpin’ at the Woodside" – Count Basie
- "Take the ‘A’ Train" – Ella Fitzgerald
Modern Grooves
Blend old-school flair with contemporary beats for a fresh take on tap.
- "Uptown Funk" – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- "Canned Heat" – Jamiroquai
- "Don’t Start Now" – Dua Lipa (Remix for rhythm layers)
- "Smooth Criminal" – Michael Jackson
Showstoppers & Broadway
Channel your inner Broadway star with these theatrical hits.
- "I Got Rhythm" – Gene Kelly (from An American in Paris)
- "Anything Goes" – Sutton Foster (Cole Porter classic)
- "42nd Street" – Original Cast (for those epic group routines)
Instrumental & Percussion
Focus on footwork with these rhythm-driven tracks.
- "The Stars and Stripes Forever" – Sousa (for military tap)
- "Caravan" – Buddy Rich
- "Spain" – Chick Corea (jazz fusion challenge)
Pro tip: Experiment with tempo adjustments or loop sections to drill specific steps. And don’t forget—sometimes the best tap "music" is the sound of your own feet! What’s your go-to tap song? Drop it in the comments.
