Line dancing’s popularity is undeniably booming, a fact that’s hard to miss for someone like me who’s been immersed in the club music scene since 1985. Back in 1991, during my time DJing at Bullwinkles in Nacogdoches, the line dance scene was pretty limited, mainly revolving around classics like “Bop” by Dan Seals and “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn.
Fast forward to today, and there’s an expansive repertoire of around 25 popular line dances that dominate dance floors. To help you navigate this exciting world, I’ve narrowed it down to 13 essential line dances that every country music enthusiast should have in their repertoire. Let’s kick things off with the top three – the undisputed trinity of line dances.
Copperhead Road – Steve Earle
If you find yourself in a Texas dance hall and “Copperhead Road” doesn’t blast through the speakers at least once, you might want to question the DJ’s taste or their understanding of line dance anthems. The moment that bagpipe intro hits, followed by those powerful boot stomps, the dance floor instantly fills up. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Pro-tip for the full experience: when you hear the lyrics “Volunteered for the army on my birthday,” make sure to shout out “Happy Birthday” – not once, but twice! It’s part of the fun and tradition.
Footloose – Kenny Loggins (or Blake Shelton)
“Footloose” is another absolute must-play for any DJ aiming to ignite the dance floor. Whether it’s Kenny Loggins’ original classic or Blake Shelton’s modern rendition, both versions are dance floor magnets. Personally, I lean towards the timeless energy of Kenny Loggins’ version when I’m at the decks, but for demonstration purposes, we often see Blake Shelton’s version used in tutorials. It’s universally loved and gets everyone moving.
Boot Scootin’ Boogie – Brooks & Dunn
Throwing it back to my early DJ days at Bullwinkles in the early 90s, “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” alongside “Bop” were the undisputed kings of line dance tracks. While “Bop” might be less frequently heard nowadays, “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” has stood the test of time and remains a cornerstone of country line dancing. Its infectious rhythm is instantly recognizable and gets everyone ready to boot scoot.
Timber – Pitbull ft. Kesha
Don’t be surprised if you hear “Timber” and see a line dance erupt – even in unexpected places! I’ve witnessed cheerleaders spontaneously break into the line dance when this track plays at basketball games. Its crossover appeal is undeniable, proving that good beats and fun dances are universal.
Wobble – V.I.C.
“Wobble” stormed onto the dance scene back in 2008 and its impact is still felt today. It remains a non-negotiable track at clubs and dance events. The catchy tune and distinctive moves make it a crowd favorite that continues to get people of all ages on their feet.
The Bunny Hop – Da Entourage
First things first, let’s clear up any confusion: this isn’t your grandmother’s Bunny Hop. This “Bunny Hop” is a simple and modern line dance choreographed to the song by Da Entourage, a band hailing from Lafayette, Louisiana. It’s easy to pick up, making it perfect for beginners and ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
Fake ID – Big & Rich
Get ready to amp up the energy with “Fake ID” by Big & Rich! This is a high-octane line dance packed with dynamic movements. It gained popularity after being featured in the 2011 “Footloose” movie sequel. It’s a great one for those looking for a more challenging and engaging line dance experience.
Cupid Shuffle – Cupid
Released in 2007, the “Cupid Shuffle” has become a staple at a wide range of events, from clubs and weddings to corporate gatherings and beyond. It’s a personal favorite because of its simplicity – the lyrics themselves guide you through the steps. It’s practically foolproof and ensures everyone can participate and have a blast.
Cha Cha Slide – DJ Casper
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the “Cha Cha Slide” is still a frequently requested track at clubs, although perhaps not quite as ubiquitous as it once was. This interactive dance track is a guaranteed way to get everyone involved, even those who might be hesitant to hit the dance floor.
Outlaw (Whiskey Drinkin’ SOB) – Mikel Knight
Heads up – this one comes with a language warning due to some explicit lyrics. Known as the “Outlaw Line Dance,” it’s performed to the Mikel Knight track “Whiskey Drinkin’ SOB.” Despite the edgy title, the dance itself is a lot of fun and a bit different from the typical country line dance fare.
Country Girl, Shake It For Me – Luke Bryan
When “Country Girl, Shake It For Me” comes on, you’ll see a mix of dance styles on the floor. Some dancers opt for shuffle steps, while others launch into the specific line dance choreographed to the song. This versatility shows how adaptable and energetic country dance culture can be.
K Wang – Khia
“K Wang” might not be as frequently played as some of the other line dance anthems, but it consistently ranks high in song requests whenever I’m DJing. (Lyric caution advised!) It’s a crowd-pleaser that people still love to dance to and request, proving its enduring appeal.
Cotton Eyed Joe/Schottische – Isaac Payton Sweat
Consider this a bonus track – the “Cotton Eyed Joe/Schottische” line dance. It’s a bit of an old-school gem that doesn’t get played as often these days. However, for us “old schoolers,” it’s still a beloved classic that we enjoy both playing and dancing to. While finding a perfect tutorial can be tricky, you can still catch folks doing their best to keep the steps alive.
Just Scratching the Surface
This list barely touches the vast world of popular country line dances that keep dance floors packed in venues everywhere. Beyond these, you’ll often hear:
- Cotton Eyed Joe – Rednex Version
- Good Time – Alan Jackson
- Electric Slide – Grandmaster Flash
- Macarena
- Achy Breaky Heart
And let’s not forget the buzz around Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em.” The moment I first heard it, I knew it was destined to become the next big line dance craze. Keep your ears and eyes open – you’ll likely be learning the “Texas Hold ‘Em” line dance steps very soon!
