From village squares to global stages, these rhythms have moved generations. Press play on the heartbeat of cultures around the world.
European Energy
The old continent offers a dizzying array of rhythms, from the fierce footwork of the Balkans to the graceful elegance of Celtic circles.
Çifteli - Fanfara Tirana
A powerful Albanian number that builds with explosive energy. Perfect for those line dances where the tempo just keeps accelerating.
Kalinka - Red Army Choir
The quintessential Russian folk song. Its accelerating pace will test the stamina of any dancer performing the squat-and-kick moves of the prisyadka.
Drowsy Maggie - The Chieftains
Listen to European Energy Playlist
A classic Irish reel that is a staple at ceilidhs worldwide. Its driving fiddle melody is impossible to resist.
Latin & Caribbean Heat
Where African rhythms met indigenous and European influences to create some of the world's most infectious dance forms.
El Jarabe Tapatío - Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
The famous "Mexican Hat Dance." This is the sound of celebration, complete with swirling skirts and charismatic zapateado footwork.
Ochoa - Totó La Momposina
A masterclass in Colombian cumbia. The hypnotic drumbeat and gaita flutes evoke a timeless, communal dance under the stars.
Samba de Janeiro - Bellini
Listen to Latin Heat Playlist
While modernized, this track is pure Carnaval. Its samba beat is the pulsating heart of Rio's massive street parties.
North American Traditions
A melting pot of influences that created unique community dances, from Appalachian hoedowns to the smooth glide of the Cajun waltz.
Orange Blossom Special - Johnny Cash
The "fiddle player's national anthem." This breakneck-speed bluegrass tune is a square dance caller's dream (or nightmare!).
Jolie Blonde - The Balfa Brothers
The anthem of Cajun music. Its wistful accordion and fiddle melody is perfect for a two-step around the kitchen.
Shady Grove - Doc Watson
Listen to North American Playlist
A classic Appalachian folk song, ideal for a relaxed circle dance or a clogging routine.
African & Middle Eastern Rhythms
Explore the complex polyrhythms and mesmerizing melodies that are the root of so many other global dance forms.
Yègellé Tezeta - Mulatu Astatke
The king of Ethio-jazz. This track has a hypnotic, swaying rhythm that is both cool and deeply moving.
Mawwal - Sabah Fakhri
A legendary Syrian vocal piece that builds into a thrilling dabke rhythm, inspiring synchronized group line dancing.
Jingo - Babatunde Olatunji
Listen to Rhythms Playlist
A Nigerian percussion masterpiece by the legendary drummer. This is a call to move your entire body to the beat.
Asian Melodies
From the intricate storytelling of South Asian dances to the graceful, flowing movements of East Asia.
Rang - A.R. Rahman
A modern Bollywood track built on traditional bhangra rhythms from Punjab. Energetic, joyful, and impossible to sit still to.
Spring Festival Overture - China National Traditional Orchestra
A majestic and celebratory Chinese orchestral piece often accompanied by lion and dragon dances.
Tsunami of Dreams - Yoshida Brothers
Listen to Asian Melodies Playlist
A thrilling blend of the ancient shamisen with modern rock energy, creating a powerful and driving sound for a new era of Japanese dance.
