Are you looking for some of the best west coast swing songs to dance to? This list of swing dance music will inspire you to pull out your dancing shoes and start moving to that swing beat!
Best West Coast Swing Songs
West Coast Swing is a versatile dance style that can be danced to a wide range of music genres, including pop, blues, R&B, and more. The best songs for West Coast Swing often have a moderate tempo, a clear beat, and a smooth, groovy feel.
What is West Coast Swing?
West Coast Swing is a partner dance that originated in the United States, particularly on the West Coast, hence its name. It is a unique and versatile dance style that has evolved over time and has become popular both in the United States and around the world. West Coast Swing is known for its smooth and elastic movements, intricate footwork, and emphasis on improvisation and connection between partners.
Here are some key characteristics and aspects of West Coast Swing:
1. Connection: West Coast Swing places a strong emphasis on the connection between the dance partners. Unlike some other swing dances, like Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing dancers typically maintain a closer connection, allowing for communication through body movements, tension, and subtle cues.
2. Slotted Dance: West Coast Swing is often danced in a “slot,” which is a rectangular area on the dance floor. This linear slot allows for intricate footwork and patterns while giving dancers a clear path to move without colliding with others on the dance floor.
3. Musical Variety: West Coast Swing can be danced to a wide range of music genres, including blues, R&B, pop, funk, and contemporary songs. The adaptability of the dance to different styles of music is one of its strengths.
4. Smooth and Elastic Movements: Dancers in West Coast Swing use a rolling motion through their feet and body, giving the dance a smooth and elastic feel. This style allows for a wide range of movements, including spins, slides, and whip patterns.
5. Improvisation: West Coast Swing is known for its improvisational aspects. While there are basic patterns and steps, dancers often incorporate their own variations and styling into the dance, making each dance unique.
6. Basic Patterns: Despite its improvisational nature, West Coast Swing does have a foundation of basic patterns, such as the sugar push, whip, tuck turn, left side pass, triple steps, and others. These patterns serve as a starting point for dancers to build upon.
7. Competitive and Social Dance: West Coast Swing is both a social dance enjoyed in social settings like clubs and dance parties and a competitive dance. There are West Coast Swing competitions held worldwide, where dancers showcase their skills and creativity.
8. Dance Community: West Coast Swing has a strong and supportive dance community with regular social dance events, workshops, and conventions where dancers can learn, practice, and socialize with fellow enthusiasts.
Overall, West Coast Swing is a dynamic and adaptable dance style that can be enjoyed by dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. It combines technical skill with creative expression, making it a popular choice for those who love partner dancing.
West Coast Swing Music
Here’s a list of some classic and popular West Coast Swing songs across various genres:
1. “Sugar” by Maroon 5
2. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
3. “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
4. “Fever” by Michael Bublé
5. “At Last” by Etta James
6. “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
7. “Save the Last Dance for Me” by Michael Bublé
8. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
9. “All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor
10. “No Diggity” by Blackstreet ft. Dr. Dre
11. “Treasure” by Bruno Mars
12. “I Put a Spell on You” by Annie Lennox
13. “Cheek to Cheek” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
14. “Suit & Tie” by Justin Timberlake ft. Jay-Z
15. “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole
16. “My Baby Just Cares for Me” by Nina Simone
17. “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
18. “Smooth Operator” by Sade
These songs have a good rhythm and feel that make them suitable for West Coast Swing, but keep in mind that personal preferences can vary. Feel free to explore different music styles and find the songs that resonate with your own dance style and taste. Additionally, West Coast Swing is known for its adaptability, so don’t be afraid to try dancing it to a variety of songs to discover what works best for you.
Great West Coast Swing Song
Classic West Coast Swing dance songs are typically characterized by their moderate tempo, clear beats, and suitability for showcasing the dance’s signature slotted style and connection between partners.
Here are some additional classic West Coast Swing dance songs:
1. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole
2. “My Baby Just Cares for Me” by Nina Simone
3. “Unchain My Heart” by Ray Charles
4. “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King
5. “Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin
6. “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” by The Four Tops
7. “Knock On Wood” by Eddie Floyd
8. “Rock Steady” by Aretha Franklin
9. “Turn Me On” by Norah Jones
10. “Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters
11. “Come Together” by The Beatles (cover versions with a moderate tempo)
12. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
13. “Smooth” by Santana featuring Rob Thomas (for a modern twist)
14. “Don’t Let Me Down” by The Chainsmokers featuring Daya (contemporary choice)
15. “Dance Me to the End of Love” by Madeleine Peyroux
16. “Sittin’ On the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding
17. “Georgia on My Mind” by Ray Charles
18. “Blue Ain’t Your Color” by Keith Urban
These songs offer a variety of styles and moods for West Coast Swing dancing, from classic to modern, and should provide a great foundation for your dance routines. Remember that the most important aspect of West Coast Swing is the connection between partners and the ability to interpret the music through your movements, so choose songs that resonate with you and your partner to create a memorable dance experience.
West Coast Swing Playlists for Competition
When it comes to choosing West Coast Swing songs for competition, it’s essential to select tracks that not only have the right tempo and groove but also allow dancers to showcase their skills, musicality, and connection with their partners.
Here’s a list of songs that are suitable for West Coast Swing competitions:
1. “Feelin’ Good” by Michael Bublé
2. “At Last” by Etta James
3. “Cry Me a River” by Diana Krall
4. “Route 66” by Natalie Cole
5. “Come Away with Me” by Norah Jones
6. “Fever” by Peggy Lee
7. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
8. “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin
9. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
10. “My Funny Valentine” by Chet Baker
11. “Smooth Operator” by Sade
12. “Unchain My Heart” by Joe Cocker
13. “I Put a Spell on You” by Annie Lennox
14. “Save the Last Dance for Me” by Michael Bublé
15. “Blue Ain’t Your Color” by Keith Urban
16. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
17. “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton
18. “Gravity” by John Mayer
19. “Sunday Morning” by Maroon 5
20. “Don’t Stop Believin'” (Cover) by Journey
These songs offer a mix of classic standards, contemporary tracks, and some that provide a unique twist on familiar tunes. Remember that the key is not just the song but also how well it suits your style and the choreography you’ve developed. It’s crucial to choose music that resonates with you and your partner, allowing you to express yourselves on the dance floor effectively.
Additionally, consider the rules and guidelines of the specific West Coast Swing competition you plan to enter, as they may have requirements or restrictions on song choices, such as a maximum or minimum tempo. Always practice and refine your routine with the chosen song to ensure it flows smoothly and highlights your dancing skills.
Michael Jackson West Coast Swing Dance Songs
Michael Jackson’s music, with its infectious rhythms and grooves, can make for excellent West Coast Swing dance tunes.
Here are some Michael Jackson songs that work well for West Coast Swing:
1. “Billie Jean”
2. “Rock with You”
3. “The Way You Make Me Feel”
4. “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)”
5. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”
6. “Beat It”
7. “Black or White”
8. “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'”
9. “Human Nature”
10. “Smooth Criminal”
11. “Thriller”
12. “Love Never Felt So Good” (with Justin Timberlake)
13. “Remember the Time”
14. “Man in the Mirror”
15. “Off the Wall”
These songs feature a combination of moderate tempos, clear beats, and catchy melodies that make them suitable for dancing West Coast Swing. However, it’s essential to adapt your dance style to the specific song and its tempo, as West Coast Swing can be danced to a range of music styles. Experiment with these Michael Jackson tracks to find the ones that best suit your dancing style and preferences.
Jennifer Hudson West Coast Swing Dance Songs
Jennifer Hudson has a powerful and soulful voice that can be a great fit for West Coast Swing, especially for those looking to add a contemporary and expressive element to their dance.
Here are some Jennifer Hudson songs that can work well for West Coast Swing:
1. “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” – This song’s emotional intensity and steady tempo can provide a unique backdrop for a passionate West Coast Swing routine.
2. “Spotlight” – With its catchy rhythm and lyrics, “Spotlight” offers a great opportunity for playful and expressive West Coast Swing dancing.
3. “If This Isn’t Love” – This upbeat track can bring a fun and energetic vibe to your West Coast Swing performance.
4. “Love You I Do” – From the “Dreamgirls” soundtrack, this song has a mid-tempo groove that can work well for West Coast Swing routines.
5. “I Still Love You” – This song combines a modern R&B feel with a moderate tempo, making it a versatile choice for West Coast Swing.
6. “I Can’t Describe (The Way I Feel)” – Jennifer Hudson’s collaboration with T.I. provides a contemporary and rhythmic track for West Coast Swing.
7. “Remember Me” – This song’s soulful sound and tempo make it a good option for expressing emotions through West Coast Swing.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to Jennifer Hudson’s songs, consider the song’s lyrics, mood, and tempo to create a dance that complements the music’s essence. West Coast Swing allows for creative interpretation, so feel free to experiment with different moves and styling to match the song’s energy and message.
Ariana Grande West Coast Swing Dance Songs
Ariana Grande’s music often features catchy melodies and a mix of contemporary pop and R&B elements, making some of her songs suitable for West Coast Swing.
Here are some Ariana Grande songs that can work well for West Coast Swing dance:
1. “Into You” – This song’s moderate tempo and infectious groove make it a great choice for a West Coast Swing routine. It provides ample opportunities for musicality and expression.
2. “No Tears Left to Cry” – With its upbeat tempo and poppy feel, this song can bring a playful and energetic vibe to your West Coast Swing dance.
3. “One Last Time” – This track has a steady tempo and a catchy chorus, making it a good option for a West Coast Swing routine that emphasizes connection and musicality.
4. “Love Me Harder” (with The Weeknd) – The sultry and rhythmic nature of this song can inspire a sensual and expressive West Coast Swing dance.
5. “Dangerous Woman” – This song’s powerful vocals and mid-tempo beat offer a unique opportunity for a dramatic and passionate West Coast Swing routine.
6. “God Is a Woman” – The smooth and sensuous rhythm of this song allows for a creative and expressive West Coast Swing dance.
7. “Breathin” – The song’s catchy melody and moderate tempo can be a great backdrop for a relaxed and flowing West Coast Swing routine.
Remember to adapt your dance style to the specific song, emphasizing the song’s mood and lyrics in your choreography. West Coast Swing is known for its adaptability and versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different moves and styling to match the Ariana Grande song you choose for your dance routine.
Stevie Wonder West Coast Swing Dance Songs
Stevie Wonder’s music has a rich and diverse catalog, and some of his songs work well for West Coast Swing dance due to their groovy rhythms and melodic qualities.
Here are some Stevie Wonder songs that can be great choices for West Coast Swing:
1. “Superstition” – This funky and upbeat classic provides an excellent rhythm for West Coast Swing, allowing dancers to get creative with their moves and musical interpretation.
2. “I Wish” – With its catchy bassline and infectious groove, “I Wish” is a fantastic choice for West Coast Swing, offering plenty of opportunities for musicality.
3. “Sir Duke” – This lively and melodic track can bring a fun and energetic feel to your West Coast Swing routine.
4. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” – With its steady tempo and soulful vocals, this song is well-suited for a smooth and flowing West Coast Swing dance.
5. “Isn’t She Lovely” – The beautiful melody and feel-good vibe of this song make it an excellent option for expressing joy and connection in your West Coast Swing routine.
6. “As” – This song’s romantic and soulful qualities can inspire a passionate and emotionally expressive West Coast Swing dance.
7. “My Cherie Amour” – The gentle tempo and sweet lyrics of this song create a perfect atmosphere for an intimate and romantic West Coast Swing routine.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to Stevie Wonder’s songs, pay attention to the song’s mood, tempo, and lyrics to create a dance that complements the music’s essence. Stevie Wonder’s music offers a wide range of emotions and styles, so you can explore different aspects of West Coast Swing through his songs.
Billy Joel West Coast Swing Dance Songs
Billy Joel’s music offers a mix of rock, pop, and ballads, making it a versatile choice for West Coast Swing dance. While some of his songs might not fit the typical West Coast Swing tempo, you can adapt them creatively to suit the dance style.
Here are some Billy Joel songs that can work well for West Coast Swing:
1. “Uptown Girl” – This upbeat and catchy song with a moderate tempo can be a fun choice for a lively West Coast Swing routine.
2. “Just the Way You Are” – The smooth and romantic nature of this song lends itself well to a slow and expressive West Coast Swing dance.
3. “You May Be Right” – This song’s energetic rhythm and playful lyrics can add a unique and entertaining element to your West Coast Swing routine.
4. “The Longest Time” – With its doo-wop style and steady tempo, this song can create a fun and playful atmosphere for your West Coast Swing dance.
5. “Tell Her About It” – This upbeat track can inspire an energetic and spirited West Coast Swing performance.
6. “New York State of Mind” – While it’s a ballad, the song’s beautiful melody and moderate tempo can be adapted for a smooth and expressive West Coast Swing routine.
7. “Don’t Ask Me Why” – The catchy rhythm and storytelling lyrics of this song can make for an engaging West Coast Swing performance.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to Billy Joel’s songs, consider the song’s mood and tempo to create a dance that complements the music’s essence. Adapting the choreography to fit the unique qualities of each song is key to a successful performance.
Shania Twain West Coast Song Ideas for Dance
Shania Twain’s music, with its country and pop influences, can be a unique and enjoyable choice for West Coast Swing dance. While not all of her songs are suitable for the dance style due to differences in tempo and style, some of her tracks can work well for West Coast Swing.
Here are a few Shania Twain songs that you might consider for your West Coast Swing dancing:
1. “You’re Still the One” – This romantic ballad with a moderate tempo can be adapted for a smooth and expressive West Coast Swing routine.
2. “From This Moment On” (with Bryan White) – Another romantic ballad, this song offers a slow and melodic rhythm that allows for emotional expression in your dance.
3. “Any Man of Mine” – With its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, “Any Man of Mine” can be a lively and playful choice for West Coast Swing.
4. “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” – This energetic and empowering song can inspire a fun and spirited West Coast Swing routine.
5. “That Don’t Impress Me Much” – With its sassy lyrics and moderate tempo, this track provides opportunities for playful and creative West Coast Swing dancing.
6. “Forever and for Always” – A slower-paced, heartfelt ballad that allows for a smooth and emotionally expressive dance.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to Shania Twain’s songs, consider the mood and tempo of the song to create a dance that complements the music’s essence. West Coast Swing is known for its adaptability and versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different moves and styling to match the Shania Twain song you choose for your routine.
KC and the Sunshine Band West Coast Swing Dance Songs
KC and the Sunshine Band’s music, with its infectious disco and funk rhythms, can be a lively and enjoyable choice for West Coast Swing dance. The band’s songs typically have a strong beat and a groovy feel that aligns well with the dance style.
Here are some KC and the Sunshine Band songs that can work well for West Coast Swing:
1. “Get Down Tonight” – This upbeat disco classic with its iconic bassline provides a lively and energetic tempo for West Coast Swing dancing.
2. “That’s the Way (I Like It)” – With its catchy chorus and rhythmic groove, this song is a great choice for a playful and spirited West Coast Swing routine.
3. “Shake Your Booty” – The title alone suggests that this song is perfect for getting dancers in the mood for a fun and lively West Coast Swing dance.
4. “I’m Your Boogie Man” – This disco hit offers a funky rhythm and a danceable beat, making it suitable for creative West Coast Swing choreography.
5. “Boogie Shoes” – A song about dancing in your boogie shoes, it’s hard to resist using this track for a West Coast Swing routine filled with flair and style.
6. “Keep It Comin’ Love” – With its energetic tempo and groovy instrumentation, this song can provide an exciting backdrop for West Coast Swing.
7. “Please Don’t Go” – A slower-paced KC and the Sunshine Band song that allows for a more romantic and emotionally expressive West Coast Swing dance.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to KC and the Sunshine Band’s songs, focus on the song’s rhythm and energy to create a dance that complements the music’s lively and danceable nature. Feel free to incorporate playful moves, spins, and syncopations to match the disco and funk elements in the songs.
Carrie Underwood Songs to Dance West Coast Swing to
Carrie Underwood’s music often combines elements of country and pop, and some of her songs can be adapted for West Coast Swing with their moderate tempos and melodic qualities.
Here are a few Carrie Underwood songs that can work well for West Coast Swing:
1. “Cowboy Casanova” – This song’s catchy rhythm and moderate tempo can make it a fun choice for a West Coast Swing routine.
2. “Undo It” – With its upbeat tempo and feisty lyrics, “Undo It” can inspire a spirited and lively West Coast Swing dance.
3. “Before He Cheats” – While not a traditional West Coast Swing song, its strong beat and attitude-filled lyrics offer a unique opportunity for an expressive and dynamic dance.
4. “Wasted” – This song’s moderate tempo and melodic nature can be adapted for a smooth and expressive West Coast Swing routine.
5. “I Told You So” (with Randy Travis) – A slower-paced duet with a beautiful melody, offering a great opportunity for a romantic and emotionally expressive West Coast Swing dance.
6. “Heartbeat” (with Sam Hunt) – This contemporary duet combines elements of country and pop, making it a versatile choice for West Coast Swing with a modern twist.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to Carrie Underwood’s songs, consider the mood, tempo, and lyrics of the song to create a dance that complements the music’s essence. West Coast Swing allows for creative interpretation, so feel free to incorporate different moves, styling, and emotions to match the song’s energy and message.
Wilson Pickett Songs to Dance West Coast Swing to
Wilson Pickett, known for his soulful and energetic music, offers some fantastic options for West Coast Swing dancing. His songs often have a strong beat and a groove that can work well with the style.
Here are a few Wilson Pickett songs that can be great choices for West Coast Swing:
1. “Mustang Sally” – This iconic soul track is a favorite for many West Coast Swing dancers due to its lively tempo and infectious rhythm.
2. “Land of 1,000 Dances” – With its energetic beat and catchy “na-na-na-na” chorus, this song can inspire an upbeat and spirited West Coast Swing routine.
3. “In the Midnight Hour” – The driving rhythm and soulful vocals in this song provide a great foundation for a dynamic and expressive West Coast Swing dance.
4. “634-5779 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)” – This song’s steady groove and catchy melody can be used for a playful and lively West Coast Swing routine.
5. “Funky Broadway” – With its funky rhythm and soulful feel, this song can be adapted for a fun and dynamic West Coast Swing dance.
6. “Don’t Let the Green Grass Fool You” – A classic soul track with a danceable beat that can be incorporated into a creative West Coast Swing routine.
When choreographing your West Coast Swing routine to Wilson Pickett’s songs, focus on the song’s groove and energy to create a dance that complements the music’s soulful and lively nature. Wilson Pickett’s music offers plenty of opportunities for dynamic moves, syncopations, and musical interpretation on the dance floor.
We hope you enjoy the style of music on this list. Whether you are doing basic steps or are more advanced, this list is a great place to find popular music for west coast swing! We hope you find your favorite song to dance to!
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.
