Hip hop music and dance are intrinsically linked. From the earliest block parties in the Bronx to global dance crazes sparked by viral tracks, hip hop has always been about rhythm, movement, and letting loose. When you’re looking for the perfect soundtrack to get a party started, energize a workout, or just break out some moves in your living room, Hip Hop Dance Songs are the answer. This genre boasts an incredible catalog of tracks designed to make you move, groove, and express yourself on the dance floor. Forget standing still – these are the hip hop anthems that demand you get involved and feel the beat.
Busta Rhymes: “Pass the Courvoisier” Remix
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While bringing a bottle of Courvoisier to every party might not be standard practice today, when Busta Rhymes commanded you to “Pass the Courvoisier,” it became an instant party anthem. This high-energy remix is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural moment. The iconic music video, featuring Busta Rhymes and Diddy in luxurious bathrobes, only solidified its status as a classic hip hop dance song. The track’s infectious beat and Busta’s signature rapid-fire delivery make it impossible not to move. It’s a perfect example of a hip hop track that transcends just listening – it’s an experience designed for the dance floor.
David Banner: “Play”
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David Banner’s “Play” is a sexually charged and undeniably freaky track from his album Certified. This song is built upon a slick Collipark beat, the production known for its bounce and club appeal, perfectly complementing Banner’s suggestive and whispery raps. The lyrics explicitly encourage a playful and sensual interaction, making it a bold and provocative choice for a hip hop dance song. Its surprising climb to No. 7 on the Billboard charts speaks volumes about its infectious rhythm and raw energy, proving that sometimes, the most audacious tracks become the biggest dance floor hits.
Big Boi: “Lookin’ 4 Ya” (Ft. Andre 3000 & Sleepy Brown)
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“Lookin’ 4 Ya” is an instant hip hop banger showcasing the unique talents of Big Boi, Andre 3000, and Sleepy Brown. Big Boi effortlessly rides the beat with his signature flow, while Andre 3000 delivers a hilarious and memorable verse about an intimate encounter in an IKEA showroom, adding a comedic twist to this dance track. Sleepy Brown’s smooth and catchy hook ties it all together, creating a funky and irresistible groove. This song is a testament to Outkast’s extended universe and their ability to create hip hop music that is both innovative and undeniably danceable.
T.I.: “Big Things Poppin'”
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“Big Things Poppin'” is undoubtedly one of T.I.’s biggest hits and a staple in any hip hop dance song collection. This track is built around a synth-heavy, bouncing beat that is guaranteed to inject energy into any environment. It’s the kind of song that can instantly lift the mood and get even the most reserved people moving. Its anthemic quality and infectious rhythm made it a go-to track for parties and clubs, solidifying its place as a modern hip hop dance classic.
GS Boyz: “Stanky Legg”
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In the year 2008, the GS Boyz’s viral hit “Stanky Legg” took the nation by storm, becoming synonymous with a distinct hip hop dance craze. The song’s infectious rhythm spawned a multi-faceted dance step that quickly spread across social gatherings and dance floors. Its popularity transcended music when U.S. soccer star Jozy Altidore adopted the “Stanky Legg” as his goal celebration, further amplifying the song’s reach and impact. “Stanky Legg” is a perfect example of how hip hop dance songs can create cultural moments and inspire widespread participation.
Eve: “Tambourine”
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“Tambourine” by Eve is a female hip hop anthem that has graced countless dance floors. It’s simply impossible to compile a list of essential hip hop dance songs without including this classic track. The song’s driving beat and Eve’s assertive delivery create an empowering and energetic vibe, making it a go-to choice for getting everyone on their feet. “Tambourine” is a testament to Eve’s lasting impact on hip hop and her ability to create music that is both powerful and irresistibly danceable.
Yung Joc: “It’s Goin’ Down” (Ft. Nitti)
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While Yung Joc’s career trajectory might have mirrored the song’s title in the long run, “It’s Goin’ Down” was an undeniable force in its prime. For a period, particularly in the Dirty South, this track was inescapable, blasting from car stereos and club speakers alike. This southern hip hop banger, featuring Nitti, captures a specific moment in time when energetic, club-ready tracks dominated the airwaves, making it a nostalgic and essential addition to any hip hop dance playlist.
Junior M.A.F.I.A.: “Get Money”
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Junior M.A.F.I.A., the crew closely associated with The Notorious B.I.G., burst into the mainstream spotlight with the incredibly infectious “Get Money.” This track became the group’s most commercially successful hit, reaching No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1996. Its catchy hook, combined with the crew’s energetic delivery, made it a standout hip hop dance song of the mid-90s, capturing the essence of that era’s sound.
Azealia Banks: “212”
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Azealia Banks’ debut single, “212,” is a dynamic showcase of vocal versatility and raw energy, resulting in a truly dancetastic hip hop song. The track’s innovative vocal shifts and frenetic pace make it a guaranteed crowd-mover, perfect for injecting energy into any party. “212” is not just a song; it’s an experience that compels everyone to get moving and grooving, highlighting Azealia Banks’ unique and impactful entry into the hip hop scene.
Terror Squad: “Lean Back”
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Scott Storch’s production on Terror Squad’s “Lean Back” provided the perfect backdrop for Fat Joe and Remy Ma to create a truly unique hip hop dance anthem. Ironically, “Lean Back” is almost an anti-dance track, instructing listeners to do just that – lean back. However, the minimalist beat and catchy hook are undeniably danceable. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and even earned a Grammy nomination, proving its widespread appeal and innovative approach to hip hop dance music.
Soulja Boy: “Crank Dat (Soulja Boy)”
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As a teenage sensation, Soulja Boy revolutionized hip hop dance culture in 2007 with “Crank Dat (Soulja Boy).” He didn’t just release a song; he launched a global dance craze. Savvily, Soulja Boy even released a dance tutorial video, ensuring the “Crank Dat” dance became accessible to everyone. This track’s simple yet infectious beat and accompanying dance moves made it a cultural phenomenon, demonstrating the power of hip hop dance songs to transcend music and become a global movement.
Timbaland: “The Way I Are” (Ft. Keri Hilson & D.O.E.)
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The fusion of rap and pop can be hit-or-miss, but Timbaland’s “The Way I Are,” featuring Keri Hilson and D.O.E., is a resounding success. Timbaland’s masterful production, particularly his drum programming, combined with Keri Hilson’s smooth vocals, creates a track that is both musically sophisticated and undeniably danceable. This song proves that when rap-pop is done right, it can produce some of the most memorable and enduring hip hop dance songs.
Chingy: “Right Thurr”
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Similar to Nelly’s “Hot in Herre,” Chingy’s “Right Thurr” became a defining summer hip hop hit in 2003. While some might playfully admit to not fully understanding Chingy’s distinctive lyrical style, it didn’t detract from the song’s massive appeal. The infectious beat and summer vibes of “Right Thurr” were undeniable, making it a ubiquitous hip hop dance track that transcended lyrical comprehension.
A$AP Rocky: “Wild for the Night” (Ft. Skrillex)
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“Wild for the Night” by A$AP Rocky, featuring Skrillex, is an unexpected yet brilliant pairing of hip hop and dubstep. The track begins with a spacey and understated vibe before erupting into a frantic and frenzied energy. This surprising collaboration between A$AP Rocky and Skrillex showcases the exciting possibilities when different genres collide, resulting in a unique and powerful hip hop dance song that defies expectations.
Jay Z: “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It to Me)”
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“I Just Wanna Love U (Give It to Me)” by Jay Z is a quintessential club-ready hip hop jingle, reportedly inspired by real-life events according to Jay Z himself. This track marked the beginning of a fruitful and enduring partnership between Jay Z and the production duo The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo). The song’s infectious groove and catchy hook made it a dance floor staple, and interestingly, Britney Spears was inspired to work with The Neptunes on her self-titled album after hearing this very track, highlighting its widespread influence.
D4L: “Laffy Taffy”
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If you somehow managed to avoid D4L’s “Laffy Taffy” upon its release in 2005, consider yourself fortunate. This track was absolutely inescapable that year, permeating every speaker and snapping its way to the top of the Billboard Hot 100. “Laffy Taffy” is often considered the quintessential “snap” hip hop song, relying on a simple synth line, hand claps, and an incredibly repetitive chant that, for better or worse, is permanently etched in the memory of anyone who experienced its reign.
Trick Daddy: “Let’s Go” (Ft. Lil Jon & Twista)
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“Let’s Go” is a powerhouse hip hop collaboration featuring Trick Daddy, Twista, and Lil Jon, built over a stadium-ready beat. This track is pure energy, perfect for high-intensity dance environments. Its aggressive rhythm and hype verses make it ideal for slam-dancing or simply unleashing pent-up energy on the dance floor. “Let’s Go” embodies the raw and boisterous side of hip hop dance music.
Missy Elliott: “Work It”
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You could easily curate an entire playlist solely from Missy Elliott’s dance hits, and “Work It” would undoubtedly be a centerpiece. This track is an incredibly infectious jam, perfect for igniting any party or transforming an ordinary moment into a spontaneous dance break. Missy Elliott’s innovative sound and playful delivery, combined with Timbaland’s groundbreaking production, make “Work It” a timeless and essential hip hop dance song.
Hurricane Chris: “A Bay Bay”
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“A Bay Bay” by Hurricane Chris started as a local DJ chant and unexpectedly evolved into a massive hip hop single. While the lyrics might be considered simplistic or even “insufferable” by some, the irresistible hook and beat are undeniable. This track demonstrates how even seemingly rudimentary elements can combine to create a hugely popular hip hop dance song, driven by pure rhythmic energy and a catchy chant.
MC Hammer: “U Can’t Touch This”
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Don’t pretend you’ve never spontaneously broken into the “Hammer dance” when “U Can’t Touch This” comes on. This track is so undeniably catchy that it’s practically impossible not to sing along and move to its iconic beat. MC Hammer’s signature track is more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon and an instantly recognizable hip hop dance anthem that transcends generations.
Ludacris: “Stand Up” (Ft. Shawnna)
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“Stand Up” by Ludacris, featuring Shawnna, boasts stellar production from a then-rising Kanye West, propelling it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 2003, becoming Ludacris’ first chart-topper. The song’s commanding energy and catchy instructions – “When I move you move, just like that” – delivered by Ludacris and Shawnna, make it an incredibly effective and popular hip hop dance track designed to get everyone involved.
Black Eyed Peas: “I Gotta Feeling”
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Known for their experimental approach, The Black Eyed Peas truly caught the dance bug when they collaborated with David Guetta for “I Gotta Feeling.” This track debuted at No. 2 on the charts, right behind their own song “Boom Boom Pow,” before quickly surpassing it and holding the top spot for an impressive 14 weeks. “I Gotta Feeling” is a global phenomenon, a hip hop dance-pop track so universally appealing that even young children instinctively hum along, making it a guaranteed party starter.
The Cool Kids: “Black Mags”
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“Black Mags” by The Cool Kids is a compelling fusion of diverse styles and sounds, seamlessly blending hyphy’s energetic bounce with boom bap’s classic hip hop foundation. This track showcases the duo’s unique ability to bridge different eras and sounds within hip hop, creating a dance song that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, appealing to a broad spectrum of hip hop dance enthusiasts.
Sage the Gemini: “Gas Pedal”
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Sage the Gemini’s “Gas Pedal” is considered a “ratchet anthem done right,” within the realm of hip hop dance music. This track captures the raw energy and infectious rhythm characteristic of ratchet music, while maintaining a level of polish and broad appeal that made it a significant hip hop dance hit. “Gas Pedal” is a prime example of how subgenres within hip hop can produce powerful and widely enjoyed dance tracks.
Young Dro: “Shoulder Lean”
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Emerging from Atlanta’s Bankhead during the peak of dance rap, Young Dro’s “Shoulder Lean” became a defining track of the era. Joined by T.I. on the hook and produced by Lil C, also from Grand Hustle Records, “Shoulder Lean” is a testament to the Atlanta hip hop scene’s dominance in dance music. The song’s simple yet effective dance instruction – “Let me see you bounce right to left and let your shoulder lean” – made it incredibly accessible and popular in clubs and parties.
Cassidy: “My Drink N’ My 2-Step”
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“My Drink N’ My 2-Step” by Cassidy, featuring Swizz Beatz, is a humorous take on hip hop dance instruction. With a drink in hand and an “instructional dance manual” (metaphorically speaking), Cassidy, with Swizz Beatz as hype man, guides listeners through the “2-step” dance. This track playfully combines party vibes with dance guidance, creating a fun and engaging hip hop dance song that encourages participation.
50 Cent: “In da Club”
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When it comes to crafting iconic drum and loop combinations, few producers rival Dr. Dre, the mastermind behind 50 Cent’s “In da Club.” Dr. Dre’s signature production style is on full display here, with drums that possess an almost visceral impact and loops that are virtually unforgettable. This potent combination, coupled with 50 Cent’s distinctive sing-song flow, is the magic formula that makes “In Da Club” a legendary hip hop party anthem and a cornerstone of dance floors worldwide.
DJ Snake: “Turn Down for What” (Ft. Lil Jon)
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The enduring appeal of DJ Snake’s “Turn Down for What,” featuring Lil Jon, is undeniable. This track is a guaranteed club detonator, consistently driving crowds into a frenzy. Its relentless energy and Lil Jon’s signature hype vocals make it a timeless hip hop dance song that will continue to ignite parties and clubs for years to come, embodying the spirit of “crunk” at its most intense.
The Notorious B.I.G.: “Hypnotize”
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“Hypnotize” is classic Biggie Smalls, showcasing his signature blend of boastful lyrics and smooth delivery. He opens with the confident declaration “Hah, sicka than your average” and proceeds to charm with his lyrical prowess, all while a hypnotic D. Dot beat provides the perfect backdrop. While Puffy’s ad-libs (“Take that, take that”) might be a prominent feature, they don’t detract from the song’s danceability. “Hypnotize” remains a smooth and undeniably danceable hip hop classic.
Nelly: “Hot in Herre”
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Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” turned up the temperature in 2002, becoming an instant summer smash and spawning a wave of remixes. The song’s enduring legacy is such that the phrase “It’s getting hot in here!” is almost automatically followed by the iconic line “So take off all your clothes!” “Hot in Herre” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone and a quintessential summer hip hop dance anthem.
Webstar x Young B: “Chicken Noodle Soup”
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Webstar and Young B’s “Chicken Noodle Soup” had the entire country dancing in 2006. This track is notable for coming with its own set of dance instructions, making it a participatory hip hop dance experience. The song’s simple, repetitive lyrics and catchy beat, combined with the associated dance moves, made it a viral sensation and a quintessential example of instructional dance hip hop.
Mystikal: “Shake Ya Ass”
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Mystikal’s “Shake Ya Ass” is a raw and energetic hip hop track where he instructs listeners to “shake their tail,” all while delivering his signature, gravelly vocals. The sheer energy and driving groove of this song make it almost impossible to resist dancing. “Shake Ya Ass” is a testament to Mystikal’s unique style and his ability to create high-octane hip hop dance music.
Huey: “Pop, Lock & Drop It”
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During the height of the crunk era in 2006, St. Louis rapper Huey emerged with “Pop, Lock & Drop It,” a massive hip hop dance single. This track, embodying the energetic and often minimalist sound of crunk music, popped its way to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Pop, Lock & Drop It” is a defining song of its time, capturing the vibrant and dance-focused energy of crunk hip hop.
N.E.R.D.: “Everyone Nose (All The Girls Standing In The Line For The Bathroom)”
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“Everyone Nose (All The Girls Standing In The Line For The Bathroom)” by N.E.R.D. is a guaranteed floor-filler and a standout track from their catalog. Its funky, upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus make it an irresistible hip hop dance song. The remix featuring Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, and Pusha T only further solidifies its status as a hip hop dance classic, offering even more lyrical firepower to an already energetic track.
Missy Elliott: “Get Ur Freak On”
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The collaboration between Missy Elliott and Timbaland is consistently a winning formula, and “Get Ur Freak On” is a prime example. This track defies genre boundaries, blending seemingly disparate elements like Indian strings, tribal drums, and even nonsensical gibberish into a cohesive and groundbreaking sound. The result is a timeless hip hop dance anthem that remains as innovative and exciting today as it was upon its release.
T-Pain: “Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin’)”
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“Buy U A Drank (Shawty Snappin’)” is arguably T-Pain’s most definitive song, encapsulating his signature auto-tuned vocals and infectious snap beat. This track is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a celebration of the hip hop dance songs that came before it, referencing elements of hits like “Walk It Out” and “It’s Goin’ Down.” “Buy U a Drank” is a perfect example of how T-Pain carved out a unique space in hip hop dance music with his distinctive sound.
Lil Jon and The Eastside Boyz: “Get Low”
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The sinful bass line in Lil Jon and The Eastside Boyz’s “Get Low” is simply irresistible. This track is pure, unadulterated energy, commanding listeners to “take it to the window, to the wall.” “Get Low” is a quintessential crunk anthem and a cornerstone of hip hop dance music, known for its raw energy and primal rhythm that compels movement.
Unk: “Walk It Out”
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DJ Unk sparked a major dance craze in 2006 with his smash hit, “Walk It Out.” This track transcended the music charts, becoming so culturally significant that MTV used it as the walk-off music on America’s Best Dance Crew for eliminated contestants. “Walk It Out” is a testament to the power of hip hop dance songs to create cultural phenomena and inspire widespread participation in dance.
Dem Franchise Boyz: “Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It”
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While the “snap music” era might seem like a distant memory, Dem Franchize Boyz’s “Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It” remains a classic example of the subgenre’s appeal. Once embroiled in a playful feud with D4L about who originated the “snap” sound, Dem Franchize Boyz delivered a party hit that, like D4L’s “Laffy Taffy,” has outlived the trend and remains a beloved hip hop dance track.
Jim Jones: “We Fly High”
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The enduring impact of Jim Jones’ “We Fly High” is evident even years after its release. Anecdotally, the author recalls witnessing someone spontaneously exclaiming “Balllinnn!” – the song’s famous ad-lib – a decade later. This speaks to the track’s lasting cultural footprint and its ability to resonate with audiences long after its initial chart success. “We Fly High” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural catchphrase and a memorable hip hop dance anthem.
Cali Swag District: “Teach Me How to Dougie”
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Following in the footsteps of Soulja Boy and others, Cali Swag District created “Teach Me How to Dougie,” an instructional dance song built around the very concept of instructional dance songs. This meta approach proved incredibly successful, launching a global dance craze. The “Dougie” even reached mainstream heights when Kate Upton graced the cover of Sports Illustrated after being filmed doing the dance at a Clippers game, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of this hip hop dance phenomenon.
C+C Music Factory: “Gonna Make U Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)”
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“Gonna Make U Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” by C+C Music Factory is a masterclass in dance music simplicity and effectiveness. Featuring a simple yet powerful hook, a perfect beat, and an overwhelmingly kinetic energy, this track practically forces you to move. The song’s title is not just a suggestion; it’s a guarantee, making it a timeless and essential hip hop dance classic.
OutKast: “The Way You Move”
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OutKast’s creative genius shines brightly when they aim to elicit a reaction, whether it’s anger, passion, or simply the urge to dance. “The Way You Move” perfectly exemplifies this side of OutKast, specifically focusing on the latter – pure, unadulterated gyration. This track is a testament to their ability to create hip hop music that is both intellectually stimulating and irresistibly danceable, making it a standout in their impressive catalog.
Missy Elliott: “Lose Control”
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“Lose Control” by Missy Elliott is the ultimate “magic pill” for any hip hop party. If the energy dips, simply drop this track, and watch the room erupt. “Lose Control” is a masterful blend of diverse musical elements: a sample from Cybotron, a touch of electro, hype man vocals from Fat Man Scoop, sweet vocals from Ciara, and Missy’s signature instructive rhymes. The result is the quintessential hip hop dance song, guaranteed to ignite any dance floor.
Flo Rida: “Low”
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While Flo Rida’s debut album, Mail on Sunday, might not be widely remembered in its entirety, his debut single, “Low,” featuring T-Pain, is an undeniable hip hop dance staple. Flavored with T-Pain’s signature auto-tune and built on an infectious beat, “Low” became a ubiquitous club anthem and a testament to the power of a well-crafted hip hop dance track to transcend album recognition and achieve lasting popularity.
French Montana: “Pop That” (Ft. Drake)
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When French Montana’s “Pop That,” featuring Drake, drops in the club, resistance is futile. This track is a commanding presence on any dance floor, leaving you with no choice but to “Pop That,” even if you’re unsure what exactly “that” is. The undeniable energy and star power of French Montana and Drake combine to create a modern hip hop dance anthem that is both unavoidable and undeniably effective in getting the party started.
OutKast: “Hey Ya!”
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Here’s a challenge: play OutKast’s “Hey Ya!” and try to sit still. It’s practically impossible. This track is a masterclass in infectious energy and musical brilliance. “Hey Ya!” transcends genre, becoming a universally loved and undeniably danceable song that has permeated popular culture. Its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and Andre 3000’s charismatic performance make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a pinnacle of hip hop dance music.
Snoop Dogg: “Drop It Like It’s Hot”
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Snoop Dogg unleashed “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” featuring Pharrell Williams, during the summer of 2004, and it quickly ascended to the top of the charts. Over a decade later, it remains one of the hottest hip hop dance songs ever created. The minimalist beat, Snoop Dogg’s laid-back flow, and Pharrell’s signature production create a timeless and iconic track that continues to dominate dance floors and solidify its place in hip hop history.
Uncle Luke: “I Wanna Rock (Doo Doo Brown)”
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“I Wanna Rock (Doo Doo Brown)” by Uncle Luke is a cornerstone of twerk anthems and a strip club favorite. This Miami bass classic relies on a simple yet incredibly effective call and response chant, delivered by the 2 Live Crew legend himself. “I Wanna Rock” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone in the world of hip hop dance, particularly for its influence on Miami bass and twerk culture.
Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock: “It Takes Two”
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“It Takes Two” by Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock is a landmark achievement in hip hop history. Hailing from Harlem, Rob Base and the late DJ E-Z Rock combined a James Brown sample, robust raps, and an infectious hip-house beat to create not only one of the greatest hip hop songs of all time but also a mega-hit on dance floors. “It Takes Two” is a foundational track, bridging the gap between hip hop and house music and solidifying its place as a quintessential hip hop dance anthem.
