Are you looking for the perfect foxtrot song to dance to? These are some of the best foxtrot songs for any occasion!
Best Foxtrot Songs
The foxtrot is a smooth and elegant ballroom dance that originated in the early 20th century. It’s typically danced to music in 4/4 time with a tempo of around 120-136 beats per minute. Foxtrot music often features a swinging and jazzy feel.
Here are some classic and popular song choices to dance the foxtrot to:
1. Frank Sinatra – “Fly Me to the Moon”: This timeless classic is a perfect choice for a foxtrot. Sinatra’s smooth vocals and the swinging arrangement make it an iconic foxtrot tune.
2. Nat King Cole – “L-O-V-E”: Nat King Cole’s velvety voice and the upbeat tempo of this song make it an ideal choice for foxtrot dancers.
3. Ella Fitzgerald – “Cheek to Cheek”: Ella’s beautiful rendition of this Irving Berlin classic is a staple in the foxtrot repertoire.
4. Dean Martin – “Sway”: Dean Martin’s Latin-infused version of “Sway” is a great option for those looking to add a touch of flair to their foxtrot.
5. Bobby Darin – “Beyond the Sea”: This song has a catchy melody and a perfect foxtrot tempo. It’s a favorite among dancers.
6. Louis Armstrong – “What a Wonderful World”: While not a traditional foxtrot, its gentle pace and sentimental lyrics make it a lovely choice for a slow foxtrot.
7. Doris Day – “Que Sera, Sera”: This charming song is great for dancers looking for a relaxed foxtrot experience.
8. Michael Bublé – “Feeling Good”: Michael Bublé’s modern take on this classic tune gives it a fresh twist for foxtrot enthusiasts.
9. Tony Bennett – “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”: This is a classic foxtrot choice with a sentimental and romantic vibe.
10. Benny Goodman – “Sing, Sing, Sing”: For those looking for a faster-paced foxtrot, this Benny Goodman classic is a great option.
11. Etta James – “At Last”: While often associated with slower dances, “At Last” can be adapted for a slow and romantic foxtrot.
12. Fred Astaire – “They Can’t Take That Away from Me”: Fred Astaire was a legendary dancer, and his rendition of this song is perfect for foxtrot dancing.
Remember that foxtrot can be danced at different tempos, so you can choose songs that match your skill level and preference. Additionally, foxtrot music can vary in style, from classic jazz to contemporary pop, so don’t hesitate to explore different genres to find the songs that resonate with you and your partner.
More Foxtrot Dance Songs
Here are more foxtrot dance songs to add to your playlist:
1. Dean Martin – “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”: Another Dean Martin classic with a lively tempo that’s great for foxtrot dancing.
2. Frank Sinatra – “The Way You Look Tonight”: Sinatra’s smooth vocals and romantic lyrics make this song a perfect choice for a slow foxtrot.
3. Bobby Darin – “Mack the Knife”: A fun and upbeat foxtrot option with a jazzy feel.
4. Natalie Cole – “Unforgettable”: The duet version featuring her father, Nat King Cole, is a beautiful and classic choice for foxtrot dancing.
5. Louis Prima – “Just a Gigolo/I Ain’t Got Nobody”: This medley combines two great foxtrot tunes with a swing feel.
6. Diana Krall – “Let’s Fall in Love”: Diana Krall’s sultry voice and the song’s tempo make it a fantastic choice for a slow foxtrot.
7. Peggy Lee – “Fever”: This iconic song has a slinky, sensuous feel that can add some flair to your foxtrot.
8. Harry Connick Jr. – “It Had to Be You”: A modern classic with a timeless sound, ideal for foxtrot dancing.
9. Duke Ellington – “Take the ‘A’ Train”: A classic big band tune that’s perfect for a lively foxtrot.
10. Ella Fitzgerald – “Night and Day”: Ella’s rendition of this Cole Porter classic is a must-have in any foxtrot playlist.
11. Tony Bennett – “The Best is Yet to Come”: Tony Bennett’s smooth vocals and the song’s optimistic lyrics make it a wonderful choice for foxtrot.
12. Bing Crosby – “Swinging on a Star”: A cheerful and catchy song with a great foxtrot rhythm.
13. Michael Bublé – “Save the Last Dance for Me”: Bublé’s contemporary take on this classic is perfect for foxtrot dancers.
14. Glenn Miller – “In the Mood”: An upbeat and iconic big band swing tune that’s a favorite for foxtrot dancers.
15. Billie Holiday – “All of Me”: Billie Holiday’s soulful voice combined with the song’s tempo creates a beautiful foxtrot experience.
These songs offer a mix of classic and modern foxtrot options, from smooth and romantic tunes to lively and upbeat choices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced foxtrot dancer, there’s something on this list for everyone to enjoy on the dance floor.
American Style Foxtrot Songs
American Style Foxtrot is a specific style of foxtrot popular in ballroom dancing competitions. It has a distinct syllabus of steps and is typically danced to music with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 120-136 beats per minute.
Here are some song title choices that are commonly used for American Style Foxtrot:
1. Frank Sinatra – “The Way You Look Tonight”: This timeless Sinatra classic is a staple for American Style Foxtrot due to its smooth tempo and romantic feel.
2. Dean Martin – “Sway”: Dean Martin’s version of “Sway” is often used for the American Style Foxtrot, thanks to its catchy rhythm.
3. Ella Fitzgerald – “Cheek to Cheek”: Ella’s beautiful rendition of this song is perfect for American Style Foxtrot with its elegant and graceful melody.
4. Nat King Cole – “Unforgettable”: This song’s slow tempo and romantic lyrics make it a popular choice for the American Style Foxtrot.
5. Michael Bublé – “Feeling Good”: Bublé’s modern take on this classic tune is great for American Style Foxtrot dancers who appreciate a contemporary twist.
6. Diana Krall – “Let’s Fall in Love”: Diana Krall’s rendition of this song is known for its smooth and sultry quality, making it a great fit for American Style Foxtrot.
7. Natalie Cole – “L-O-V-E”: This upbeat and joyful song is perfect for dancers looking to add a touch of energy to their American Style Foxtrot.
8. Tony Bennett – “The Best is Yet to Come”: Tony Bennett’s vocals and the song’s optimistic message make it a popular choice in American Style Foxtrot competitions.
9. Harry Connick Jr. – “It Had to Be You”: This modern classic has a timeless sound that suits the American Style Foxtrot beautifully.
10. Bobby Darin – “Beyond the Sea”: With its catchy melody and moderate tempo, this song is often chosen for American Style Foxtrot routines.
11. Steve Tyrell – “The Way You Look Tonight”: This is a modern rendition of the classic Sinatra song, and it’s well-suited for American Style Foxtrot dancing.
12. Michael Bublé – “Save the Last Dance for Me”: Bublé’s take on this song combines a classic feel with a contemporary touch, making it a versatile choice for American Style Foxtrot.
Remember that American Style Foxtrot allows for variations and improvisation within its syllabus, so feel free to adapt these songs to your personal style and preferences as you dance. These songs should provide a good starting point for your American Style Foxtrot playlist.
Foxtrot First Dance Songs
You need to choose from romantic songs when choosing songs for wedding dances. And when it comes to the first dance, selecting the perfect foxtrot song for your first dance as a married couple can set the tone for a memorable moment. Foxtrot is a graceful and romantic dance style, so choose a song that reflects the love and connection between you and your partner.
Here are some beautiful wedding songs and foxtrot first dance songs to consider dancing to on your big day:
1. Frank Sinatra – “The Way You Look Tonight”: A timeless classic with romantic lyrics and a perfect tempo for foxtrot.
2. Nat King Cole – “Unforgettable”: This song lives up to its name, making it a popular choice for first dances.
3. Dean Martin – “Sway”: Dean Martin’s smooth vocals and the song’s upbeat rhythm make it a great choice for a lively foxtrot.
4. Ella Fitzgerald – “Cheek to Cheek”: Ella’s elegant rendition of this song captures the essence of foxtrot beautifully.
5. Louis Armstrong – “What a Wonderful World”: A sentimental and heartwarming song for a slow foxtrot.
6. Bobby Darin – “Beyond the Sea”: A catchy melody and a moderate tempo make this song a wonderful option.
7. Diana Krall – “Let’s Fall in Love”: Diana Krall’s sultry voice adds a touch of sophistication to your first dance.
8. Michael Bublé – “Feeling Good”: Bublé’s modern twist on this classic is great for couples looking for a contemporary foxtrot.
9. Tony Bennett – “The Best is Yet to Come”: Tony Bennett’s optimism and smooth vocals make this song a perfect choice for a first dance.
10. Harry Connick Jr. – “It Had to Be You”: This modern classic has a timeless charm that suits the foxtrot well.
11. Bing Crosby – “You Are My Sunshine”: A sweet and sentimental song that can be adapted for a slow foxtrot.
12. Etta James – “At Last”: While often associated with slower dances, “At Last” can work beautifully for a slow and romantic foxtrot.
13. Dean Martin – “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”: A lively and upbeat choice for couples who want to bring some energy to their first dance.
14. Peggy Lee – “Fever”: This sultry and sensuous song adds a touch of flair to a foxtrot.
15. Billie Holiday – “All of Me”: Billie Holiday’s soulful voice combined with the song’s tempo creates a beautiful foxtrot experience.
These songs offer a mix of classic and modern options, from slow and romantic tunes to livelier selections. Choose the one that resonates most with you and your partner, and make your first dance a truly special moment.
International Style Foxtrot Songs
International Style Foxtrot is a ballroom dance that emphasizes smooth and flowing movements, often characterized by long, continuous flowing steps. When selecting songs for International Foxtrot, it’s essential to choose music with a 4/4 time signature and a moderate tempo, typically ranging from 120 to 136 beats per minute.
Here are some songs that work well for International Style Foxtrot:
1. Glenn Miller – “Moonlight Serenade”: This classic big band tune has a beautiful melody and a tempo suitable for International Style Foxtrot.
2. Michael Bublé – “Feeling Good”: Bublé’s modern take on this classic is elegant and well-suited for International Style Foxtrot.
3. Natalie Cole – “L-O-V-E”: The upbeat and joyful nature of this song makes it a great choice for a lively International Style Foxtrot.
4. Ella Fitzgerald – “Night and Day”: Ella’s smooth vocals and the song’s swing feel make it a classic for International Style Foxtrot.
5. Nat King Cole – “Lush Life”: A sophisticated choice with a moderate tempo, perfect for the graceful movements of International Style Foxtrot.
6. Frank Sinatra – “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”: Sinatra’s iconic voice and the song’s arrangement make it a timeless option for International Style Foxtrot.
7. Diana Krall – “Let’s Fall in Love”: Diana Krall’s sultry rendition brings a touch of romance to your International Style Foxtrot.
8. Tony Bennett – “The Way You Look Tonight”: This Sinatra classic, sung by Tony Bennett, is a perfect choice for a graceful Foxtrot.
9. Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – “They Can’t Take That Away from Me”: The chemistry between these two jazz legends adds charm to this International Style Foxtrot option.
10. Bobby Darin – “Mack the Knife”: An upbeat and jazzy song that works well for those looking to add some flair to their International Style Foxtrot.
11. Michael Bublé – “Save the Last Dance for Me”: This modern classic is versatile and can be adapted for International Style Foxtrot with ease.
12. Harry Connick Jr. – “It Had to Be You”: A timeless and romantic song that suits the elegant style of International Style Foxtrot.
13. Bing Crosby – “Pennies from Heaven”: A classic with a swing feel, perfect for dancers looking for an authentic Foxtrot experience.
14. Peggy Lee – “Fever”: This sultry and rhythmic song can add a touch of sensuality to your International Style Foxtrot.
15. Dean Martin – “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”: A lively and energetic choice that can make your International Style Foxtrot stand out.
Remember, the key to a successful International Style Foxtrot is finding a song with a suitable tempo and a flowing melody that complements the smooth and continuous movements of the dance.
Foxtrot Songs for Advanced Dancers
For advanced foxtrot dancers, the music selection can include a mix of classic and contemporary songs that provide opportunities for intricate footwork, musical interpretation, and creative choreography.
Here’s a list of more difficult dance songs suitable for advanced dancers:
1. Michael Bublé – “Feeling Good”: Bublé’s energetic rendition of this classic can inspire advanced foxtrot dancers to express themselves with dynamic movements.
2. Frank Sinatra – “My Way”: This iconic Sinatra song offers a sophisticated and emotional backdrop for advanced foxtrot dancers to showcase their technical skills.
3. Nat King Cole – “Autumn Leaves”: The rich and melodic quality of this song provides a beautiful canvas for advanced dancers to demonstrate intricate foxtrot patterns.
4. Ella Fitzgerald – “Summertime”: Ella’s soulful rendition of this jazz standard allows advanced dancers to explore the nuances of the foxtrot with expressive movements.
5. Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga – “Cheek to Cheek”: A modern collaboration that combines the classic with the contemporary, providing advanced foxtrot dancers with a versatile piece.
6. Dean Martin – “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”: This upbeat and lively song is perfect for advanced dancers looking to incorporate dynamic footwork and spins.
7. Natalie Cole – “L-O-V-E”: The cheerful and playful nature of this song allows advanced foxtrot dancers to infuse their routine with creativity and style.
8. Bobby Darin – “Call Me Irresponsible”: Darin’s smooth vocals and the song’s tempo make it a great choice for advanced foxtrot dancers to showcase their technical prowess.
9. Harry Connick Jr. – “Recipe for Love”: This upbeat and jazzy tune offers opportunities for advanced dancers to incorporate intricate patterns and stylish choreography.
10. Diana Krall – “Let’s Fall in Love”: Krall’s sultry voice and the song’s rhythm provide a sophisticated backdrop for advanced foxtrot dancers to showcase their interpretive skills.
11. Frank Sinatra – “I Get a Kick Out of You”: A classic with a lively tempo, offering advanced dancers a chance to display their mastery of foxtrot technique.
12. Michael Bublé – “Save the Last Dance for Me”: Bublé’s contemporary take on this classic song allows advanced dancers to fuse traditional foxtrot with modern flair.
13. Duke Ellington – “Take the ‘A’ Train”: A classic big band tune with complex arrangements, providing advanced dancers with opportunities for intricate choreography.
14. Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong – “They Can’t Take That Away from Me”: The chemistry between these two jazz legends offers advanced dancers a chance to interpret the music with grace and style.
15. Frank Sinatra – “Luck Be a Lady”: This Sinatra classic with its dynamic tempo and dramatic flair allows advanced foxtrot dancers to create a captivating routine.
Remember that advanced foxtrot dancers often enjoy music that allows for interpretation and expression, and these songs provide a range of tempos and styles for them to showcase their skills on the dance floor.
Foxtrot Modern Songs
While classic songs are often associated with foxtrot, there are also modern songs that can work well for this dance style. These songs may have a swing or jazzy feel, making them suitable for foxtrot.
Here are some modern songs that can be adapted for foxtrot:
1. Norah Jones – “Come Away With Me”: Norah Jones’s smooth vocals and the relaxed tempo of this song make it a great choice for a slow foxtrot.
2. Michael Bublé – “Everything”: Bublé’s modern take on swing and jazz, combined with the upbeat tempo of “Everything,” can work well for foxtrot.
3. Harry Connick Jr. – “We Are in Love”: A modern jazz crooner, Harry Connick Jr. has several songs suitable for foxtrot, and “We Are in Love” is a wonderful option.
4. Jamie Cullum – “These Are the Days”: Jamie Cullum’s contemporary jazz style is well-suited for foxtrot, and “These Are the Days” has a lively energy.
5. Diana Krall – “Just the Way You Are”: Diana Krall’s rendition of the Billy Joel classic has a smooth and romantic feel, making it suitable for foxtrot.
6. Michael Bublé – “Feeling Good”: This classic song, covered by Bublé, has an energetic and uplifting vibe that can be incorporated into a foxtrot routine.
7. Amy Winehouse – “Valerie”: While more upbeat, the soulful feel of “Valerie” can make it a fun and lively choice for a foxtrot.
8. John Legend – “All of Me”: With its beautiful melody and romantic lyrics, “All of Me” can be adapted for a slow foxtrot.
9. Ella Henderson – “Yours”: This contemporary ballad has a slow and emotional feel, making it suitable for a slow foxtrot.
10. Rod Stewart – “Beyond the Sea”: Rod Stewart’s rendition of this classic song can bring a modern touch to your foxtrot playlist.
11. Christina Perri – “A Thousand Years”: This romantic ballad has a slow tempo, making it suitable for a graceful foxtrot.
12. George Ezra – “Hold My Girl”: This modern song has a nice rhythm for a slow foxtrot and provides a romantic ambiance.
13. Adele – “Make You Feel My Love”: Adele’s soulful voice and the slow tempo of this song can be a beautiful choice for a slow foxtrot.
14. Ed Sheeran – “Thinking Out Loud”: This popular ballad with a moderate tempo is well-suited for a romantic foxtrot.
15. Michael Bublé – “Haven’t Met You Yet”: Another Bublé hit with an upbeat tempo that can be used for a lively foxtrot.
When selecting modern songs for foxtrot, pay attention to their tempo, melody, and overall feel. You can adapt the dance to fit the character of the song and create a unique and enjoyable foxtrot experience.
Correct Music Tempo for Foxtrot
The correct tempo for the foxtrot can vary based on individual preferences, dance style, and regional variations. In ballroom dance competitions, the International Style Foxtrot is typically danced at a tempo of around 120-136 bpm (beats per minute). However, the American Style Foxtrot may have a slightly different range, often falling between 112-120 beats per minute.
It’s important to note that within the foxtrot, there are both slow and quick components. The dance can be divided into Slow-Quick-Quick and typically follows a 4/4 time signature. The slow steps are more extended and elegant, while the quick steps involve faster footwork.
If you are learning the foxtrot, especially as a beginner, starting with a song in the lower range of the tempo spectrum might be more comfortable. As you become more proficient, you can gradually experiment with faster tempos.
When choosing music for foxtrot, consider songs with a smooth and flowing melody, as this complements the dance’s character. Classic jazz standards, swing tunes, and big band music often work well for foxtrot dancing.
If you’re practicing or dancing socially, the most important factor is to find a tempo that feels comfortable for you and your dance partner. Ultimately, the best tempo for the foxtrot is the one that allows you to express the dance’s elegance and grace while enjoying the experience on the dance floor.
Best Foxtrot Song Artists
The foxtrot, being a classic and elegant dance, is often accompanied by music from various artists spanning different eras.
Here are some of the best foxtrot song artists known for their contributions to this dance genre:
1. Frank Sinatra: Often referred to as the “Chairman of the Board” or “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” Sinatra’s smooth voice and impeccable phrasing make many of his songs perfect for foxtrot, including classics like “The Way You Look Tonight” and “Fly Me to the Moon.”
2. Nat King Cole: With his velvety voice, Nat King Cole has left a lasting impact on foxtrot music. Songs like “Unforgettable” and “L-O-V-E” are popular choices for foxtrot dancers.
3. Ella Fitzgerald: The “First Lady of Song” has a vast catalog of songs that work well for foxtrot. Her renditions of classics like “Cheek to Cheek” and “Night and Day” are timeless.
4. Dean Martin: Known for his charismatic voice and laid-back style, Dean Martin’s songs such as “Sway” and “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” are frequently chosen for foxtrot dancing.
5. Michael Bublé: As a contemporary crooner, Bublé’s interpretations of classic standards and his original songs like “Feeling Good” have made him a popular choice for foxtrot enthusiasts.
6. Tony Bennett: A legend in the music industry, Tony Bennett’s smooth and sophisticated style is well-suited for foxtrot. Songs like “The Way You Look Tonight” and “The Best is Yet to Come” are timeless classics.
7. Diana Krall: As a talented jazz singer and pianist, Diana Krall’s sultry voice and elegant style make her songs, such as “Let’s Fall in Love,” ideal for foxtrot.
8. Bobby Darin: With a versatile style that includes swing and jazz elements, Bobby Darin’s songs like “Beyond the Sea” and “Mack the Knife” can add energy and flair to a foxtrot.
9. Louis Armstrong: Known for his distinctive voice and trumpet playing, Louis Armstrong’s jazz classics like “What a Wonderful World” can create a beautiful atmosphere for a slow foxtrot.
10. Harry Connick Jr.: This modern-day crooner has a voice reminiscent of the classic era. Songs like “It Had to Be You” showcase his talent for capturing the essence of traditional foxtrot music.
11. Peggy Lee: A jazz and pop music icon, Peggy Lee’s songs, including “Fever” and “Why Don’t You Do Right,” can add a touch of sophistication to your foxtrot.
12. Glenn Miller: As a bandleader during the swing era, Glenn Miller’s big band sound produced foxtrot classics like “Moonlight Serenade” that are still popular today.
These artists have made significant contributions to the world of foxtrot music, and their songs continue to be cherished by dancers around the globe. Whether you prefer the classics or modern interpretations, these artists offer a rich selection of music for your foxtrot playlist.
More Foxtrot Song Artists
Here are more foxtrot song artists to consider for your playlist:
1. Andy Williams: Known for his smooth voice, Andy Williams has many classics suitable for foxtrot, such as “Moon River” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”
2. Rosemary Clooney: The velvety voice of Rosemary Clooney makes songs like “Come On-a My House” and “Sway” delightful for foxtrot.
3. Johnny Mathis: Johnny Mathis’s romantic ballads, including “Chances Are” and “Misty,” are great choices for slow foxtrot.
4. Connie Francis: In addition to the previously mentioned artist, songs like “Where the Boys Are” and “Who’s Sorry Now” can also be incorporated into your foxtrot playlist.
5. Bobby Vinton: Known for his smooth voice, Bobby Vinton’s songs like “Blue Velvet” and “Roses Are Red (My Love)” can add a classic touch to your foxtrot.
6. Lena Horne: With her captivating voice, Lena Horne’s recordings of “Stormy Weather” and “Love Me or Leave Me” can be used for expressive foxtrot routines.
7. Al Martino: Al Martino’s romantic ballads like “Spanish Eyes” and “Volare” can create a beautiful atmosphere for a slow foxtrot.
8. The Platters: The Platters’ soulful tunes, including “Only You” and “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” can be adapted for foxtrot dancing.
9. Dinah Washington: Known as the “Queen of the Blues,” Dinah Washington’s songs like “What a Diff’rence a Day Makes” and “Teach Me Tonight” are versatile for foxtrot.
10. Bobby Helms: Bobby Helms’s classic hit “Jingle Bell Rock” can be a fun and upbeat choice for a festive foxtrot.
11. Jimmy Durante: The distinctive voice of Jimmy Durante adds a touch of whimsy to songs like “As Time Goes By” and “Make Someone Happy.”
12. Johnny Mercer: Known not only as a singer but also as a songwriter, Johnny Mercer’s recordings of his own compositions like “Moon River” and “Accentuate the Positive” can be included in your foxtrot playlist.
13. Dionne Warwick: Dionne Warwick’s elegant voice shines in songs like “Walk On By” and “What the World Needs Now Is Love,” making them suitable for foxtrot.
14. Sam Cooke: For a soulful foxtrot, consider Sam Cooke’s hits like “Cupid” and “You Send Me.”
15. Paul Anka: Paul Anka’s songs like “Diana” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” provide a classic touch to your foxtrot playlist.
Feel free to explore songs from these artists to find the perfect mix for your foxtrot playlist. Whether you’re looking for classic standards or more contemporary interpretations, these artists offer a diverse range of music for your dancing enjoyment.
We hope that you enjoy dancing the foxtrot to these wonderful songs!
More Songs for Other Dance Styles
If you would like to find the perfect song to dance to other dance styles then check out the below links! You are sure to find a fun song in the many dance music options.
