Swing dancing is timeless, and so is the music that fuels it. Whether you're a Lindy Hop enthusiast, a Balboa aficionado, or a West Coast Swing devotee, knowing the right songs is key to nailing the rhythm, style, and energy of the dance. Below, we’ve curated a mix of classic swing anthems and modern gems that belong in every dancer’s playlist.
Classic Swing: The Golden Era Essentials
These tracks from the 1930s–1950s are the backbone of swing dancing. They’re packed with infectious energy, improvisational brass, and rhythms that make it impossible to stand still.
- "Sing, Sing, Sing" – Benny Goodman
- "Jumpin' at the Woodside" – Count Basie
- "Take the 'A' Train" – Duke Ellington
- "In the Mood" – Glenn Miller
- "Shiny Stockings" – Ella Fitzgerald & Count Basie
- "T’aint What You Do" – Jimmie Lunceford
Pro Tip: Many classic swing songs have abrupt tempo changes—perfect for practicing dynamic footwork!
Modern Swing: Fresh Takes for Today’s Dance Floor
Swing music never died—it evolved. These contemporary tracks blend vintage vibes with modern production, keeping swing dancing alive and relevant.
- "Brick House" (Swing Version) – The Commodores / Electro Swing Remixes
- "Cry Me a River" – Postmodern Jukebox ft. Haley Reinhart
- "Minnie the Moocher" – Parov Stelar (Electro Swing)
- "Puttin' on the Ritz" – Taco (or modern covers)
- "Fire" – The Speakeasies’ Swing Band
- "Mr. Pinstripe Suit" – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Why it matters: Modern swing often plays with BPM (beats per minute), making it great for experimenting with West Coast Swing or Neo-Lindy styles.
Genre-Blenders & Wildcards
These tracks aren’t pure swing but are frequently used in dance scenes for their swing-compatible rhythms or playful energy:
- "Seven Nation Army" (Swing Cover) – The White Stripes / Postmodern Jukebox
- "Bad Boy Good Man" – Tape Five
- "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" – Queen (Rockabilly swing)
