Are you looking for the best songs for Tap Dance routine? Check out this list of the best songs to get your feet tapping and your audience cheering!
I’ve curated an awesome tap playlist of Good Tap Songs for Solos, Competitions, or Fun that features songs (including modern and old songs) suitable for dancers of any age.
Modern Tap Dance Songs for Younger Dancers
Get ready to groove with these modern tap dance songs! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, this collection of upbeat and catchy tunes will take your tap routine to the next level.
1. Dear Future Husband – Meghan Trainor
“Dear Future Husband” by Meghan Trainor is a modern tap dance song about finding true love. The lyrics speak of wanting to nurture and cherish a future husband, hoping for a happy marriage that will last forever.
The cheerful melody, coupled with the lively tap beat creates an infectious upbeat vibe, perfect for making one feel energized and lighthearted.
2. You and I – Ingrid Michaelson
“You and I” by Ingrid Michaelson is a modern tap dance song about finding the courage to fight for your dreams.
With its energetic beat, it encourages the listener to take risks and never give up on the things they are passionate about.
3. Hit Me Up – Gia Farrell
“Hit Me Up” by Gia Farrell is a modern tap dance song that encourages listeners to be bold and fearless in making their dreams come true.
The lyrics are an ode to resilience, with the catchy chorus inspiring listeners never to give up and keep pushing towards their goals.
The song’s beat is upbeat, with a funk-infused rhythm that drives the music’s infectious energy.
4. Someday – Michael Bublé ft. Meghan Trainor
“Someday” by Michael Bublé featuring Meghan Trainor is an upbeat, pop-infused song about trusting that good things will come in life.
With perfect rhythms for tap dancing and an uplifting message of faith, this track is an excellent addition to any tap dancer.
5. “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic
“Counting Stars” by OneRepublic is an upbeat and energetic song perfect for tap dancing.
With its electric guitar riffs, pounding drums, and memorable chorus that repeats the phrase “counting stars,” this track will make any tap dancer feel inspired to move in time to its catchy beat.
6. Brighter Than The Sun – Colbie Caillat
“Brighter Than The Sun” by Colbie Caillat is a perfect song for tap dancing. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, you will be tapping your feet in no time.
The lyrics are all about feeling carefree and celebrating life, which is something that tap dancers want to express through their moves.
7. Lollipop – Sophie Green
“Sophie Green’s song ‘Lollipop’ is an upbeat and fun-filled track perfect for tap dancing!
With its infectious beat, distinct soundscape, and positive energy, it’s no wonder that this cheerful tune has become a favorite among tap dancers.
8. Monsters, Inc. – Randy Newman
“Monsters, Inc. – Randy Newman’s song “Good Songs For Tap Dance” is a lively and energetic tune that will get you out of your seat and onto the dance floor!
Its bouncy, catchy melody, along with its bright horns and jazzy piano accompaniment, make it an excellent choice for tap dancing.
The lyrics are uplifting and encouraging, filled with words of optimism like “Dare to be brave.” This upbeat song is sure to put a smile on your face as you twirl around the dance floor!
9. Sea Cruise – Kidsongs
The Kidsongs song Sea Cruise – Kidsongs is the perfect choice for a tap dance routine.
This powerful and upbeat track has a bouncy rhythm that encourages you to get up and start dancing.
The lyrics are easy to remember and capture the joy of being out on the open sea, with playful guitar riffs, sultry sax solos, and lively drums that keep you moving.
10. When We’re Human – Michael, Leon Wooley
When We’re Human, written by Michael Leon Wooley, is a perfect song for tap dancing.
It has a catchy hook line and delivers a deep and meaningful message about how we should always strive to be better versions of ourselves.
The song encourages us to focus on our strengths while still maintaining respect for others.
Old Songs For Tap Dance
Need inspiration for your tap dance playlist? These old songs are timeless classics that bring energy and rhythm to your performance.
11. “Tripped Out Slim” by Trombone Shorty
“Tripped Out Slim” by Trombone Shorty is an uptempo, upbeat, energetic song, perfect for tapping your feet.
It features jazz influences with traditional New Orleans style and draws on funk and hip-hop elements while adding some tasty improvisational solos throughout.
The brass playing keeps the energy moving along, and it’s sure to have your body moving at any event or gathering.
12. “All About That Bass” by Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox delivers a powerful, old-school vibe with their rendition of “All About That Bass.”
With the combination of Jacqueline Proto’s soulful and sultry vocals backed by a big band sound, this upbeat song will surely get you tapping your feet in no time.
It is the perfect choice for tap dancing, as its rhythm and tempo take listeners on an energizing journey.
13. “The Butterfly Song” by Pink Martini
“The Butterfly Song” by Pink Martini is an upbeat, jazzy tune perfect for a tap dance routine. The playful melody and driving beat make it easy to get into the song’s rhythm.
The song blends the timeless styles of jazz and Latin music seamlessly, resulting in a delightful composition featuring vibrant trumpets, electrifying guitar riffs, and a memorable chorus.
14. “It Ain’t No Use” by Trombone Shorty
Trombone Shorty’s “It Ain’t No Use” is a jazzy, brass-driven toe-tapper that will instantly get your feet moving.
It’s a great song for tap dancers of any level looking to add some attitude and flavor to their performance, just don’t forget to smile!
15. “Here Come The Girls” by Trombone Shorty
The song “Here Come The Girls” by Trombone Shorty is a lively and captivating piece of music that will make you want to dance.
Its bold and brassy sound, combined with upbeat rhythms and captivating brass solos, makes it perfect for tap dancing.
16. “Kaj Kolah Khan” by Pink Martini
“Kaj Kolah Khan” by Pink Martini is an energetic and powerful tap dance song. It features playful rhythms, lively trumpet solos, and classic percussion that will inspire your feet to move.
This song is sure to keep any audience entertained thanks to its uplifting tempo and inspiring energy, making it one of the best songs for tap dancers everywhere.
17. “Laveau Dirge Finale” by Trombone Shorty
“Trombone Shorty’s “Laveau Dirge Finale” is a high-energy track that is perfect for a tap dance performance.
This catchy funk tune has strong horns and upbeat rhythms that will excite any crowd.
With its powerful bass line, thumping drums, and soulful vocals, this song gives tap dancers the opportunity to show off their fancy footwork in style.
18. “Melting Lights – Live” by Pigeons Playing Ping Pong
“Melting Lights – Live” by Pigeons Playing Ping Pong is an energetic and catchy track that serves as the perfect accompaniment for tap dancers looking for a song to ignite their routines.
Featuring an upbeat rhythm and soaring guitar riffs, this high-energy track will bring your tap dancing to life.
19. As Long as I’m Singing – Kevin Spacey
“As Long as I’m Singing – Kevin Spacey’s song is an uplifting celebration of music and rhythms ideal for any tap dance routine.
This catchy tune is perfect for any level of dancer, from the beginner to the professional.
With its energizing beat and clever lyrics, this song will have you tapping your feet and feeling motivated to continue dancing.
20. Funkytown – Dave Lambert vs. Electrokid
Funkytown – Dave Lambert vs. Electrokid is the perfect choice for those looking for an upbeat and energetic song to tap dance to!
The iconic 80s hit has a catchy melody, infectious rhythms, and funk.
21. Hollywood – The Puppini Sisters
The Puppini Sisters are a trio from Britain who specializes in reinterpreting swing and jazz classics from the 1940s with a focus on vocals.
Their rendition of “Good Songs For Tap Dance” from Hollywood in 2007 captures the nostalgic sound of the original while incorporating elements of contemporary pop and funk.
The song features lush harmonies, a dynamic rhythm, and lively vocal performances that exude infectious energy.
22. It’s a Small World – Nikki Yanofsky
The song “It’s a Small World – Nikki Yanofsky” is an upbeat and fun tune that makes it perfect for tap dancing.
The song speaks to the way people are interconnected, no matter where in the world they may be.
The lyrics remind us that we are all linked together in some way or another, despite being far apart.
The cheerful melody and positive message make it an ideal selection for tap dancers who want to express this feeling through their performance.
23. “Galang(Trio Riot Version)” by Vijay Iyer Trio
“Galang (Trio Riot Version)” by Vijay Iyer Trio is an upbeat, high-energy track perfect for tapping your toes.
Fusing jazz, hip-hop, and funk, this song will surely grove you in no time.
With its intricate percussion and driving melody, there’s a reason it made the list of best songs for tap dance.
24. “Segundo” by Pink Martini
“Segundo” by Pink Martini is an upbeat and energetic bossa nova-inspired track with a samba flavor that makes for an ideal song for tap dancing.
Its infectious rhythms, joyful melody, and seductive horns provide the perfect background to create a dazzling and dynamic routine.
25. “Celloopa” by The Piano Guys
“Celloopa” by The Piano Guys is an uplifting and inspiring piece of music that makes an ideal choice for tap dancing.
With its mellow piano melody, joyous strings accompaniment, and toe-tapping percussion, the song creates a positive and rhythmically charged atmosphere to dance to.
26. Smile Big – Leftover Cuties
“Smile Big – Leftover Cuties is a fun, upbeat song perfect for tap dance. It starts with an infectiously catchy four-count beat that sets the pace and encourages tapping.
The lyrics are uplifting and positive, with lead singer Shirli McAllen’s silky smooth vocals adding a layer of joy to the track.
The chorus has a groovy hook that will have listeners smiling and dancing along in no time.
This song provides the perfect soundtrack to any inspiring and lighthearted tap performance, smile big and enjoy!
27. Tiki Tiki Tiki Room – Wayne Brady
“Tiki Tiki Tiki Room” by Wayne Brady is one of the great songs for tap dance.
With its upbeat rhythm, vibrant melodic line, and infectious chorus, it provides an ideal backdrop to express light-hearted movements.
Whether performed solo or in a group, it encourages everyone to come together and have fun with their dance moves.
28. “Stacy’s Mom” by Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox’s version of “Stacy’s Mom” is an upbeat and dynamic swing-style rendition, making it an ideal song for tap dance.
The energetic beats and punchy melodies combined with the high-energy horns create a perfect foundation for jazz steps.
This fast-paced track is full of attitude and pure joy, making it one of the best songs for tap dance.
29. A Cool Cat In Town – Tape Five, Brenda Boykin
“A Cool Cat In Town – Tape Five ft. Brenda Boykin is an energetic and captivating song that makes it perfect for tap.
With its upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics, this track will surely get anyone in the mood to dance the night away.
30. Summer Swing! – Linus’ Blanket
“Summer Swing! – Linus’ Blanket is a perfect choice for any aspiring tap dancer looking to add some groovy summer vibes to their routine.
This up-tempo song features smooth melodies and tight, toe-tapping rhythms that will make any tap dancer feel at the most fantastic block party ever.
31. You Make Me Happy – Cathy Heller
The song “You Make Me Happy” by Cathy Heller is an uplifting and inspirational track that is perfect for tap dancing.
This upbeat and catchy pop tune speaks of the profound impact a person can have on someone else’s life, expressing how they light up the room just by being there.
32. I’ll Be By Your Side – Cathy Heller
“I’ll Be By Your Side” by Cathy Heller is an uplifting and inspiring song perfect for tap dancing. With its upbeat message, it’s sure to bring a smile to tap dancers of all levels.
It speaks of determination, strength, and support, which makes it the ideal anthem for those looking for motivation or inspiration while tapping.
33. Vive le swing – Gabin Brassy Remix
‘Vive le swing – Gabin Brassy Remix’ is an infectious song that will get your toes tapping and your body moving.
The remix of the original track by Gabin Brassy is upbeat and energizing, perfect for getting you in the mood for a good tap dance.
With its fast-paced tempo, catchy lyrical hooks, and pulsing rhythm, it’s sure to be a hit with all types of dancers looking for something fresh to add to their routine.
34. Pay Me Now (Or Pay Me Later!) – Squirrel Nut Zippers
Pay Me Now (Or Pay Me Later!) by Squirrel Nut Zippers is an upbeat, jazzy tune perfect for tap dancing.
With its catchy swing rhythm and sultry saxophone riffs, this song will get any audience on their feet quickly.
35. Chicken Payback – The Bees
Chicken Payback – The Bees is a great song for tap dancing.
With its driving beat, soulful groove, and infectious lyrics, it has all the makings of an energizing and dynamic piece of music that will have your feet tapping along to the rhythm.
36. At The Hop – Danny & The Juniors
“At the Hop” by Danny & The Juniors is a classic doo-wop song that has become a staple for tap dancers everywhere.
Its infectious beat and lively lyrics make it easy to dance to, while its catchy chorus is perfect for improvisation.
37. Blame It on the Boogie – The Jacksons
Blame It On The Boogie – The Jacksons is one of the best songs for tap dance.
With its upbeat tempo and catchy tune, this song has been inspiring generations of dancers to put their best foot forward.
Not only does it have a great energy that’ll make you want to get up and boogie, but this wonderfully choreographed song is perfect for tap dancing as well.
38. Chattanooga Choo Choo – The Andrews Sisters
“Chattanooga Choo Choo” by The Andrews Sisters is a classic tap dance song.
It has all the elements you need for an excellent performance: it’s upbeat, rhythmic, and catchy.
With its cheerful lyrics about traveling to the South by train, it will bring an infectious energy to your routine.
39. Da Doo Ron Ron – The Crystals
“Da Doo Ron Ron” by The Crystals is a great song for tap dance. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, it’s sure to get your toes tapping in no time.
The lyrics tell the story of a lost love between two sweethearts who can’t seem to get their romance right.
Though it may seem like bad news, the cheery melody will quickly put you in a happy mood, making it a perfect tune for any tap routine.
40. Little Bitty Pretty One – Frankie Lymon
“Little Bitty Pretty One” by Frankie Lymon is an iconic song for tap dancing, as it has a catchy tune and a lively rhythm. It’s the perfect song to get your feet moving!
The lyrics talk about searching for love with someone special, which gives it a romantic and hopeful tone that can be uplifting.
41. Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow – The Beach Boys
“Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow” by The Beach Boys is a fantastic song for tap dancers of all levels. It has an upbeat tempo, and driving drums bring out big smiles and plenty of foot-tapping energy.
42. Reet Petite – Jackie Wilson
“Reet Petite (The Sweetest Girl In Town)” by Jackie Wilson is an iconic song for tap dance performances.
This classic pop and soul song has a catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, making it perfect for intermediate to advanced tap dancers.
It also features captivating lyrics that talk about finding true love with someone who’s “sweet and petite.”
For those looking to add some jazz into their tap dance routine, this tune is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
43. The ABC’s Of Love – Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers
“The ABC’s of Love – Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers is a classic from the 1950s which is an uplifting and memorable song for tap dancing.
With its infectious grooves and toe-tapping rhythms as well as its cheerful lyrics, it has become an enduring favorite for those who love to dance the night away.
44. Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
“Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel is a classic song perfect for tap dance.
Its upbeat and catchy melody, simple lyrics, and iconic chorus make it an ideal selection for any tap dance routine.
45. You Can’t Hurry Love – Phil Collins
If you’re a tap dancer looking for an exciting and energetic routine, “You Can’t Hurry Love” by Phil Collins is an excellent song choice.
Its upbeat and foot-stomping rhythm and catchy melody make for a perfect addition to any performance.
Not only is it a fun and funky tune, but the lyrics also serve as a reminder to trust the natural progression of things, no matter how long it takes.
46. Peppermint Twist – Joey Dee, Starliters
The classic song “Peppermint Twist” by Joey Dee and The Starliters is an iconic and popular track for tap dancers.
The song’s upbeat tempo and vibrant energy make it the ideal choice for tap routines that need to inject some extra life into the dance floor.
47. Lovely One – The Jacksons
“Lovely One” by The Jacksons is a great song to use for tap dancing. It has a joyful melody that will make your feet move and create stunning rhythms.
With its upbeat tempo and classic Jackson 5 signature sound, the music provides an energetic accompaniment to any performance.
48. Smooth Criminal – Michael Jackson
Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson is an iconic song that has become a staple in tap dance routines.
It is renowned for its catchy, bluesy rhythm and funky bass line, making it a great choice to groove to while performing intricate and stylistic moves and steps.
49. Trickle Trickle – The Manhattan Transfer
“Trickle Trickle – The Manhattan Transfer song is an upbeat classic used for tap dance routines across the globe.
It’s an energetic song with a great beat and an incredibly catchy melody, making it perfect for anyone looking to create some lighthearted, fun choreography.
50. Pennies From Heaven – Louis Prima
“Pennies From Heaven” by Louis Prima is an excellent song for tap dancers to have in their repertoire.
The jazzy, upbeat tune combines elements of ragtime and swing to create a lively and fun atmosphere that encourages tapping along.
“In the Navy” by Village People is a great choice for tap dance. It has an upbeat tempo, catchy lyrics and follows a story of enlisting in the Navy and exploring.
The brisk marching beat of the song provides an ideal rhythm to tap your feet on the floor.
52. I Got Stung – Elvis Presley
“I Got Stung” by Elvis Presley is a classic rock and roll song that stands out as one of the best songs for Tap Dancing.
With its upbeat tempo and infectious melody, the song creates an ideal backdrop for dancers to show off their style and skill while tapping away.
53. Juke Box Baby – Perry Como
“Juke Box Baby – Perry Como” is an upbeat and cheerful song for tap dancing. It has a lighthearted rhythm and a catchy melody, making it incredibly fun to dance to.
54. Mr. Sandman – The Puppini sisters
The Puppini Sisters’ lively cover of the classic jazzy song, “Mr. Sandman” is a great choice for tap dancers looking for an upbeat piece to perform to.
The catchy melody and playful lyrics will motivate dancers to stay in motion and experience the joy of tapping.
55. Yes Sir, That’s My Baby – Frank Sinatra
“Yes Sir, That’s My Baby” by Frank Sinatra is an iconic song for any tap dancer. It is defined by its groovy and upbeat tempo that can’t help but bring a smile to anyone’s face.
The classic swing style of the tune captures the irresistible feeling of joy and freedom, while the lyrics speak of loving someone unconditionally and going with them through thick or thin.
FAQs
What music goes with tap?
When tap dancing, the music played is typically lively and upbeat, highlighting the rhythm and tempo of the dance.
Jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, pop, blues, ragtime, and swing are commonly used musical genres for tap.
Musicians can use different instruments and arrangements to create unique soundscapes for each performance.
Today, modern tap dancers also incorporate contemporary tunes into their tap routines to add variety to the genre.
In short, any music with a strong beat can be used for tap dancing.
Is tap dance good for you?
Yes. Tap dancing is a great way to exercise as it is an aerobic activity that strengthens and tones muscles in your legs, core, and arms.
It also improves flexibility, coordination, balance, and energy levels. Furthermore, it helps in building bone density, which in turn reduces the risk of fractures.
Apart from the physical benefits, tap dancing also has mental health benefits, such as reducing stress levels and improving cognitive brain function.
In addition to all the benefits, tap dancing is excellent! So if you’re looking for a way to stay fit while having a great time, you should try tap dancing!
What music is used for tap dancing?
Tap dancing is a vibrant form of dance where the dancer uses their feet to strike and rhythmically tap on the floor, making rhythmic sounds.
The music used for tap dancing is usually fast-paced and has a strong beat, such as swing jazz or ragtime.
Typically, these types of music feature prominent percussion instruments like snare drums and cymbals that help move the dancers’ feet and emphasize specific beats.
Different genres such as Motown, classic rock ‘n roll, big band jazz, hip hop, and Latin American rhythms can also inspire different combinations of steps.
Improvisation is often encouraged in tap dancing, allowing the dancers to adjust their steps according to whatever fits best with the song they are dancing to.
What is the best thing to tap dance on?
The best thing to tap dance on is a hard, flat floor with a bounce. Hardwood, laminate, and tile floors are all excellent choices for tap dancing.
Tap dancing boards are great for creating a sound that resonates throughout the room, but they can be expensive and difficult to install.
What country is known for tap dancing?
Tap dancing has African American roots traced back centuries ago, making the United States the birthplace of this art form.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, tap dance emerged in America’s colonies by combining traditional African rhythms and movements with European clogging steps.
Over time, tap dance has become a beloved and respected art form worldwide, thanks to iconic entertainers like Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Fred Astaire, and Gregory Hines.
Today, tap dance remains a significant part of American culture, and its presence can be seen in various forms of entertainment, including films, television shows, and Broadway musicals.
Who is the fastest tap dancer in the world?
The fastest tap dancer in the world is 55-year-old Arthur Duncan, an accomplished musician and renowned performer from Las Vegas.
Guinness World Records have recognized Duncan as tapping an average of 600 taps per minute over a 30-second, a feat that earned him the coveted title of “World’s Fastest Tap Dancer” in 2006.
His fame has continued to grow since then, even garnering him appearances on several television talk shows such as The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and The Oprah Winfrey Show.
He has graced stages worldwide, imparting his impressive talent and masterful technique upon new generations of tap dancers.
Is tap harder than ballet?
Mastering tap dancing is a challenging and intricate art that demands strength, coordination, and finesse.
It is widely considered even more difficult than ballet due to its complexity and the skill level required to excel at it.
Both dance styles require dedication and rigorous practice, but tap dancers must learn and practice various foot patterns, jumps, leaps, spins, slides, turns, and rhythms to create a unique routine.
In contrast, ballet emphasizes graceful movements over intricate footwork. Nonetheless, ballet also requires precision and commitment to achieve mastery.
In short, the difficulty of each dance style is subjective, and it comes down to personal preference. Neither is better or worse than the other. Both offer their unique challenges and rewards.
Do tap dancers have strong legs?
Yes. Tap dancing requires immense strength and power in the lower body. Hence tap dancers are known to have powerful legs.
Staying on your toes for a long time, jumping, and performing complex footwork requires a lot of strength from your ankles, calves, quads, hamstrings, and glutes.
Tap dancers endure several leg strengthening exercises and conditioning exercises to enhance their strength and stability for more effective performance.
This is why tap dancers have potent legs.
What age is tap dance for?
Tap dancing, the exuberant style of dance that originated in the United States and is enjoying a resurgence of popularity today, is for all ages!
Whether you’re six or 96, tap dancing can be fun and great exercise while teaching rhythm and movement.
Tap classes are often tailored to meet different age group’s needs, from beginner to advanced-level dancers.
The basic footwork and technique can help us all build strength, agility, coordination, body awareness, and musicality.
Does tap dancing tone legs?
Yes. Tap dancing is an incredible form of exercise that provides cardiovascular benefits and tones the legs.
The fast-paced movements of tap dancing require one to move their feet quickly and powerfully, building muscle strength.
This activity helps improve your balance and coordination and increases circulation while strengthening and toning the muscles in your lower body, particularly your calves, and thighs.
Who was the first tap dancer?
William Henry Lane was the first recorded tap dancer, nicknamed “Master Juba.”
He was a runaway slave who taught himself to dance and then developed a unique form of percussive footwork with rhythmical steps accompanying clapping or slapping his hands and feet on the ground or floor.
His style was picked up by other African-American performers in minstrel shows, vaudeville performances, early musicals, and films in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Master Juba’s influence made tapping a popular dance form worldwide, which is still hugely enjoyed today.
Is tap dance a ballet?
No, tap dance is not a ballet. Tap dance is an art form with unique conditions and moves, emphasizing musicality through sounds created by the dancer’s shoes.
This highly improvisational dance style utilizes intricate rhythms and complicated foot patterns to create complex choreographies while showing off the performer’s style and personality.
On the other hand, Ballet is a very structured technique-based art form that follows specific guidelines and steps; it also lacks improvisation elements as part of a typical performance.
Is tap dancing for girls?
No. Tap dancing is no longer just for girls. It has become a dance form accessible and appealing to people of all genders.
With its strong roots in African-American culture, tap dancing is an art form that celebrates diversity and encourages self-expression.
It’s also a great way to stay fit and active and develop coordination, rhythm, and technique!
Conclusion
The right music and tap dance combinations can amplify any performance.
Whether dancing for fun, in a competition, or for a solo routine, selecting the right song can make your performance much more special.
With so many great songs above, you can have an awe-inspiring tap dance that will have everyone applauding!
