Cypher Ready: The Essential Playlist for Every Breakdancer's Training
Curate the perfect sonic foundation to power your top rocks, footwork, freezes, and power moves.
Music is the lifeblood of breaking. It's not just background noise—it's your opponent, your partner, and your coach all in one. The right track can push you past your limits, help you find new rhythm patterns, and elevate your entire session. Here's the ultimate playlist, broken down by training focus, to ensure you're always cypher ready.
The Foundation: Classic Breaks & Funk
"Apache"
The Incredible Bongo Band
The undisputed anthem. That opening bongo riff is a call to the circle. Perfect for practicing your foundational top rocks and feeling the connection to breaking's origins.
"It's Just Begun"
The Jimmy Castor Bunch
With its iconic drum break and energetic vibe, this track is pure energy. Use it for high-intensity footwork drills and building stamina.
"Give It Up or Turnit a Loose"
James Brown
The Godfather of Soul provides a masterclass in rhythm. This track's complex drum patterns are ideal for musicality training and hitting those sharp, precise accents.
Power Move Pump-Up
"The Grunt"
The J.B.'s
That driving, relentless horn section is pure fuel. When you need to push for one more windmill, one more flare, this track provides the raw power.
"Get Ready" (Breakbeat Remix)
Rare Earth
A breakbeat monster. The extended drum solo section is a playground for building momentum and practicing the circular motion essential for power.
Pro Tip: Don't just listen—study the music. Isolate the kick drum, the snare, the hi-hats. Your body should learn to respond to each layer individually. This deep listening is what separates good dancers from great ones.
Footwork Flow & Precision
"Scorpio"
Dennis Coffey
The funky guitar riff and steady, crisp beat provide a perfect canvas for intricate footwork patterns and practicing your musical phrasing.
"Soul Pride"
James Brown
The drum break in this song is a lesson in funk rhythm. It's fantastic for drilling six-steps, three-steps, and swipes with style and swagger.
Modern Breaks & Electronic Fusion
"Breathe" (Breakage Remix)
The Prodigy
A modern breakbeat classic. The aggressive, digital drums and dark energy are perfect for practicing sharp hits and developing a more contemporary style.
"Heavy, California" (Jungle Remix)
Jungle
This track blends modern production with classic funk sensibilities. Its complex, layered rhythms are excellent for advanced musicality and finding unique grooves.
The Cool-Down: Funk & Soul Grooves
"Sing a Simple Song"
Sly & The Family Stone
After an intense session, cool down with this groove. Its laid-back, funky vibe is perfect for practicing style moves, stalls, and just feeling the music without the pressure.
Remember: This playlist is a starting point. The most important thing is to build your own library. Dig for records, explore different eras of funk, soul, jazz, and breakbeat. Your unique sound will help develop your unique style. Now hit play and hit the floor.
