Groove to the Rhythm

Essential Breakdancing Tunes for Every B-Boy and B-Girl

The heartbeat of breaking isn't just in the dancer's moves—it's in the music. From the classic funk breaks that started it all to the electrifying electronic beats that fuel modern cyphers, the right track can elevate a set from practice to poetry. Here’s a curated list of essential breakbeats, old and new, that every breaker needs in their arsenal.

The Foundation: Old School Breaks (1970s-1980s)

• "Apache"

  The Incredible Bongo Band

  The undisputed anthem. That drum break is the cornerstone of breaking, providing a perfect, timeless rhythm for top rocks, footwork, and powermoves.

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• "It's Just Begun"

  The Jimmy Castor Bunch

  A powerhouse of energy. The driving beat and iconic opening riff make it impossible to stand still. A classic for any throwdown.

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• "Give It Up or Turnit a Loose"

  James Brown

  The Godfather of Soul provides a raw, funky groove that's pure fuel. The chaotic energy is perfect for aggressive footwork and expressive style.

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• "Super Sporm"

  Captain Sky

  A quirky, hypnotic bassline and steady breakbeat that has been a favorite for footwork sessions since day one.

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The Electro Era: Sonic Boom (1980s)

• "Planet Rock"

  Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force

  This track literally changed the game. Its futuristic 808 beats and synth melodies defined the electro-funk sound that became synonymous with early hip-hop culture.

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• "Al-Naafiysh (The Soul)"

  Hashim

  A relentless, fast-paced electro rhythm that is a ultimate test of speed and control for footwork. Pure, uncut energy.

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• "Clear"

  Cybotron

  Juan Atkins' futuristic masterpiece offers a cold, mechanical beat that inspires a robotic, tech-inspired style of popping and breaking.

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Modern Breaks & Battle Anthems (2000s-Present)

• "Bomb Track"

  Rage Against the Machine (Break Remix)

  A blistering fusion of rock and breakbeat. Tom Morello's screeching guitar translated into a break provides a aggressive, high-octane backdrop for powermoves.

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• "Funky President"

  James Brown (People Under The Stairs Edit)

  Modern producers keeping the funk alive. This edit takes a classic and refines the break, making it even crisper for today's dancers.

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• "Heavy Rotation"

  Breakbeat Junkies

  A modern breakbeat track made specifically for breaking. It's got all the elements: a crisp drum loop, a funky bassline, and scratches.

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• "The Grunt"

  The J.B.'s (TDK Allstars Edit)

  A testament to the global edit scene. This version is a staple in modern battles, known for its heavy kick and raw energy.

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