Line dancing has captivated people for decades, drawing them to dance floors in bars and clubs with its infectious energy and sense of community. This choreographed dance form, where groups move in unison, has experienced waves of popularity, most recently fueled by social media platforms like TikTok. While line dancing has been set to various musical genres throughout its history, it’s become particularly intertwined with country music, creating a vibrant and enduring dance culture.
In the United States, iconic line dances such as “The Madison,” “The Cowboy Boogie,” and “The Electric Slide” emerged alongside diverse musical styles, from pop and disco to rock ‘n’ roll, swing, R&B, and Latin. However, over time, line dancing forged a strong connection with country music, a bond that amplified the popularity of both.
The 1980s witnessed a surge in country music and line dancing, sparked by the 1980 film Urban Cowboy starring John Travolta. This movie ignited widespread enthusiasm for line dancing, country music, and the broader country lifestyle. The 1990s brought even greater heights of popularity, propelled by hits like Brooks & Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” whose music video prominently featured line dancing. Networks like Country Music Television (CMT) and The Nashville Network (TNN) further propelled line dancing into mainstream culture during this era.
Nashville’s Wildhorse Saloon, opening in 1994, became a central hub for line dancing, even hosting TNN’s Wildhorse Saloon Dance Show, which broadcast line dancing into homes weekly, hosted by Katie Haas. Despite the recent closure of the Wildhorse Saloon after three decades, line dancing remains a beloved pastime. Across the nation, numerous clubs and dance halls continue to offer line dance lessons and spaces for enthusiasts to enjoy this social dance. For those looking to join in the fun, music is key. So, what are some of the Best Line Dance Songs to get you started? Here are a few standouts that are sure to get you moving on the dance floor.
One of the quintessential line dance anthems is “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn. Released in 1991, this high-energy track is practically synonymous with modern country line dancing. Its driving beat and catchy melody make it irresistible to get up and dance. The line dance itself, also called the “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” is a staple in dance halls and is easily recognizable.
Another classic that remains incredibly popular is “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus. This 1992 hit took the world by storm and brought line dancing into the mainstream like never before. The accompanying line dance is simple to learn and fun for all ages, contributing to the song’s enduring appeal and making it a must-know for any line dancer.
Moving into a slightly different rhythm, “The Electric Slide” by Marcia Griffiths (and covered by many others) is a timeless choice. While not strictly country, “The Electric Slide” is a foundational line dance song that transcends genres. Its four-wall dance pattern is iconic and widely taught, making it a go-to for beginners and experienced dancers alike.
For something with a bit more of a modern country edge, consider “Watermelon Crawl” by Tracy Byrd. This playful and upbeat song from 1994 inspires a fun, quirky line dance that perfectly matches its lighthearted lyrics. It’s a great choice for adding some novelty and humor to your line dancing repertoire.
Finally, for a high-energy, slightly more unconventional option, “Cotton Eye Joe” by Rednex is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This 1994 song blends country and techno elements, creating a unique and incredibly energetic track. The line dance is fast-paced and exhilarating, perfect for those looking to really get their heart rate up on the dance floor.
These songs represent just a starting point in the vast world of line dance music. Each offers a unique rhythm and style, but all are fantastic examples of songs that get people moving together on the dance floor. Whether you’re a seasoned line dancer or just starting out, these best line dance songs are sure to provide hours of fun and boot-scootin’ enjoyment.
