A dance solo is a deeply personal performance. It’s not just about the choreography—it’s about the music, the emotion, and the story you tell through movement. The right song can elevate your performance, making it more powerful and memorable. But with so many options, how do you find the best solo dance songs that truly suit your style, personality, and technical abilities?
“Choosing a song is the first step in creating a solo that connects with both the dancer and the audience,” says Veronika Bah, Owner and Artistic Director of Fouetté Academy. “It’s not just about what sounds good—it’s about what moves you.”
Let’s break down how to find the perfect song for your dance solo, whether you’re competing, performing on stage, or simply dancing for yourself.
How Do I Choose a Dance Song?
When selecting music for a solo, consider the following factors:
1. Emotion & Connection to the Song
✔ Does the song evoke a strong emotional response?
✔ Can you see yourself expressing the story through movement?
✔ Does it align with your personal style and interpretation?
“Some of the most powerful solos come from a place of real emotion,” says Sammy Grano, Competitive Dance Program Director. “If a dancer truly feels the music, the performance becomes unforgettable.”
2. Musical Structure & Dynamics
✔ Is there a clear build-up or climax to showcase a big moment?
✔ Does the song have varied tempos to allow for dynamic movement?
✔ Is the rhythm easy to follow for choreography?
A great dance solo should have contrasts—soft moments, powerful accents, and opportunities to showcase technique.
Where Do Dancers Find Their Music?
Dancers and choreographers often discover music through:
| Source | Why It’s Useful |
| Spotify Playlists | Curated lists for contemporary, lyrical, jazz, and more. |
| YouTube & SoundCloud | Independent artists and remixes offer unique tracks. |
| Dance Competitions & Conventions | Watching other dancers perform can spark ideas. |
| Movie Soundtracks | Dramatic scores often work well for solos. |
| Classical & Instrumental Music | Perfect for ballet or contemporary solos. |
Sammy’s Tip: “Avoid songs that are overused in competitions—judges see them all the time. Finding something unique helps your solo stand out.”
Best Songs for a Dance Solo by Style
1. Contemporary Solo Dance Songs
Contemporary solos require fluidity, emotion, and dynamic movement.
✔ “Experience” – Ludovico Einaudi
✔ “Unsteady” – X Ambassadors (Acoustic Version)
✔ “Youth” – Daughter
✔ “Bruises” – Lewis Capaldi
2. Emotional Lyrical Dance Solo Songs
Lyrical dance tells a story, requiring songs with deep meaning and expressive lyrics.
✔ “Skinny Love” – Birdy
✔ “Fix You” – Coldplay
✔ “I Get to Love You” – Ruelle
✔ “Lost Without You” – Freya Ridings
Veronika’s Tip: “Lyrical solos are all about vulnerability. Pick a song that resonates with your emotions, and your performance will feel natural.”
3. Jazz & Funky Solo Dance Songs
Jazz solos need high-energy beats and strong attitude.
✔ “Ain’t No Other Man” – Christina Aguilera
✔ “Uptown Funk” – Bruno Mars
✔ “Feeling Good” – Michael Bublé
✔ “Run the World (Girls)” – Beyoncé
4. Best Solo Dance Songs for Ballet & Classical Styles
For ballet and neoclassical solos, instrumental music works best.
✔ “The Swan” – Camille Saint-Saëns
✔ “Clair de Lune” – Debussy
✔ “Lacrimosa” – Mozart
✔ “Reverie” – Debussy
How Do I Find Music for My Dance Routine?
Not every song is immediately danceable. Here’s how to test a song before committing to it:
1. Try Improvising to It
✔ Play the song and move without planned choreography.
✔ Does the movement come naturally?
✔ Do you feel inspired by the rhythm and melody?
2. Break Down the Song Structure
✔ Identify the intro, build-up, climax, and resolution.
✔ Find places where you can add turns, jumps, and floor work.
3. Check for Overused Songs
✔ Research competition trends to avoid overplayed tracks.
✔ Consider remixes or acoustic versions for a fresh take.
Sammy’s Tip: “A good solo song has layers—moments of stillness, explosive beats, and room for storytelling. If a song is too repetitive, it won’t let you showcase variety.”
Choosing a Song for Different Solo Dance Levels
| Dancer Level | Best Type of Song | Why? |
| Beginner | Songs with clear beats & slower tempo | Easier to follow rhythm and transitions. |
| Intermediate | More complex instrumentals with changes in dynamics | Allows for contrast in movement. |
| Advanced | Songs with unpredictable tempo changes | Challenges technique and storytelling. |
Veronika’s Tip: “If you’re new to solos, pick a song with a steady beat. More experienced dancers can experiment with irregular rhythms and syncopation.”
Final Thoughts: Your Song, Your Story
Choosing the right song for a dance solo isn’t just about finding a track—it’s about selecting a piece of music that speaks to you. The best solos happen when dancers connect deeply with their music, using it as a foundation for expression, storytelling, and movement.
At Fouetté Academy dance school, we guide dancers in finding the perfect song for their solos, ensuring their performance is both unique and captivating.
🎶 Ready to create your next solo? Find your perfect song and start dancing today!
