Modern Grooves: The Best Contemporary Tracks for Jazz Dance Class
Fresh sounds to inspire movement and creativity in your studio
Jazz dance continues to evolve, blending its rich tradition with fresh influences from pop, R&B, electronic, and global music. Today's jazz classes demand tracks that honor the art form's roots while pushing its boundaries forward. Forget the standard classics—we've curated a list of contemporary gems that will bring infectious energy, sophisticated rhythms, and modern flair to your jazz dance classes.
These selections work beautifully across class segments—from warm-ups and across-the-floor combinations to center work and intricate routines.
Vintage
Olivia Dean
This soulful, upbeat track has all the makings of a modern jazz standard. With its warm bassline, punchy horns, and Dean's rich vocals, "Vintage" offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary cool. The tempo is ideal for practicing isolations, body rolls, and sharp accents.
CUFF IT
Beyoncé
From her groundbreaking Renaissance album, "CUFF IT" brings pure disco-funk energy to the studio. Its four-on-the-floor groove, infectious guitar riff, and powerful vocals create an irresistible urge to move. This track is pure joy and confidence in musical form.
Good Days
SZA
SZA's ethereal vocals float over a laid-back, groovy beat in this modern R&B masterpiece. The song's atmospheric production and complex rhythm section provide a sophisticated soundscape for more lyrical and contemporary jazz styles.
Levitating
Dua Lipa (The Blessed Madonna Remix)
While the original is pure pop perfection, this remix extends the track with a deeper house-inspired groove that's ideal for dance class. The persistent beat drives movement forward while allowing space for syncopated accents and playful footwork.
Water
Tyla
This global hit introduces the infectious rhythm of Amapiano to jazz class. The minimalist production, built around a hypnotic log drum pattern and Tyla's airy vocals, creates a unique texture that feels both organic and electronic.
Appletree
Erykah Badu
A slightly older track that never loses its relevance, "Appletree" embodies the spirit of neo-soul with its loose, live instrumentation and conversational flow. Badu's rhythmic phrasing is a masterclass in itself.
Looking for a ready-to-use playlist? We've compiled these tracks and more contemporary jazz-class essentials in one place.
Follow on SpotifyPro Tip: Many of these tracks have extended versions or clean edits available on streaming services, perfect for class settings.
