Soulful Beats: Must-Have Songs for Modern Contemporary Dance Routines
Ethereal & Atmospheric
"Skin" (Orchestral Version)
RÜFÜS DU SOL x London Contemporary Orchestra
A cinematic rework of the electronic classic—swelling strings and whispered vocals create breathtaking lift-and-catch moments.
"Falling Through Space"
Loma
Hypnotic minimalism with irregular percussion—ideal for slow-motion floorwork and gravity-defying partnering.
Pulsing & Emotional
"Breathe Me" (2025 Rework)
Sia x Floating Points
The iconic vulnerability of the original meets glitchy, heartbeat-like synths—perfect for narrative-driven group pieces.
"Dissolve"
Abi Ocia
A bassline that moves like liquid mercury beneath soaring vocals—choreograph your most explosive crescendos here.
Organic & Textured
"Bloom" (Live from NPR Tiny Desk)
The Paper Kites
Whispered harmonies and fingerpicked guitar—use this for intimate duets with natural, breath-initiated movement.
"Gold" (Cello Version)
Klergy x HAUSER
A classical-meets-electronic hybrid that builds to a devastating climax—reserved for your most powerful solo work.
Unexpected Grooves
"Move Your Body" (Olafur Arnalds Remix)
Solange
Deconstructed R&B with off-kilter rhythms—challenge your dancers with polyrhythmic phrasing.
"Soft Machine"
Burial x Four Tet
Glitchy, soulful electronica that begs for improvisation—the 6/8 time signature creates mesmerizing flow.
