Whether you're gliding across the floor in a waltz or heating things up with a samba, the right music sets the tone for every ballroom dance. A perfect playlist isn’t just about rhythm—it’s about emotion, energy, and connection. Here’s your ultimate guide to must-have songs for both Smooth (Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz) and Latin (Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, Jive, Paso Doble) rhythms.
Smooth Rhythms
Elegant, flowing, and timeless—these songs will make you want to float across the dance floor.
Waltz (3/4 Time)
- "The Blue Danube" – Johann Strauss II (Classic)
- "Come Away With Me" – Norah Jones (Modern)
- "A Thousand Years" – Christina Perri (Romantic)
Foxtrot (4/4 Time)
- "Fly Me to the Moon" – Frank Sinatra (Timeless)
- "L-O-V-E" – Nat King Cole (Playful)
- "Happy" – Pharrell Williams (Upbeat)
Tango (Dramatic & Sharp)
- "Por Una Cabeza" – Carlos Gardel (Classic Tango)
- "Tango del Fuego" – Parov Stelar (Electro-Tango)
- "Cell Block Tango" – Chicago Soundtrack (Theatrical)
Viennese Waltz (Fast 3/4 Time)
- "The Beautiful Blue Danube" – André Rieu (Orchestral)
- "Kiss from a Rose" – Seal (Modern Twist)
Latin Rhythms
Sizzling, passionate, and full of fire—these tracks will ignite your movements.
Cha-Cha (Syncopated 4/4)
- "Oye Como Va" – Santana (Timeless Groove)
- "Smooth" – Santana ft. Rob Thomas (Modern Hit)
- "Dance the Night Away" – Dua Lipa (Pop-Cha-Cha)
Rumba (Slow & Sensual)
- "Bésame Mucho" – Andrea Bocelli (Classic Romance)
- "Despacito" – Luis Fonsi (Modern Flavor)
- "Hips Don’t Lie" – Shakira (Spicy Beat)
Samba (Bouncy & Energetic)
- "Magalenha" – Sergio Mendes (Authentic Samba)
- "La Vida Es Un Carnaval" – Celia Cruz (Festive)
- "Blame It on the Boogie" – The Jacksons (Disco-Samba)
Jive (Fast & Lively)
- "Candyman" – Christina Aguilera (Retro Swing)
- "Rock Around the Clock" – Bill Haley (Classic Jive)
- "Shake It Off" – Taylor Swift (Pop-Jive)
Paso Doble (Dramatic & Bold)
- "España Cañí" – Traditional (Definitive Paso)
- "The Final Countdown" – Europe (Epic Energy)
Mix and match these tracks to create the perfect ballroom experience—whether you're practicing, competing, or just dancing for joy. Pro tip: Look for remastered versions or covers to keep classic songs fresh. Now, turn up the volume and let the music move you!