So, you’re in charge of music for a wedding, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or any event where you need to get people of all ages onto the dance floor? Finding music that bridges generations and gets everyone moving can be tricky. You need those universally loved Group Dance songs, the ones with moves practically embedded in our DNA since childhood. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Whether your crowd loves rap, Latin rhythms, country twang, or just delightfully cheesy classics, this list of group dance anthems is guaranteed to ignite the party in the best way possible. Even if some guests are unfamiliar with the steps, many of these songs have lyrics that guide you through the moves. So, get ready to have fun, and maybe watch out for your partner’s feet!
Here’s a countdown of the 20 best group dance songs of all time, from modern hits to timeless classics perfect for any celebration.
#25: “Cotton Eye Joe” – Rednex
This high-energy, banjo-infused track is a line dancing staple. “Cotton Eye Joe” is perfect for getting everyone moving with its simple, repetitive steps and infectious beat. Its unique blend of country and techno makes it a surprising but effective group dance choice.
#24: “The Cha Cha Slide, Part 2” – Mr. C
Mr. C performing the Cha Cha Slide, a popular instructional group dance song.
The “Cha Cha Slide” is more than just a song; it’s an interactive dance experience. Mr. C literally instructs you on every move, making it foolproof for group participation. Its catchy rhythm and clear directions make it a favorite at parties and events worldwide.
#23: “Do Si Do” – Various Artists
“Do Si Do” represents the classic square dance tradition. While various versions exist, the core concept remains the same: partner-based movements in a group setting. It’s a fantastic way to encourage interaction and teamwork on the dance floor, perfect for inclusive group fun.
#22: “Electric Boogie” – Marcia Griffiths
Marcia Griffiths performing Electric Boogie, a classic Jamaican line dance song.
Also known as the “Electric Slide,” this song is synonymous with smooth, gliding line dance moves. Marcia Griffiths’ “Electric Boogie” brings a cool, reggae vibe to group dancing, making it a sophisticated yet accessible choice for dancers of all levels.
#21: “Hokey Pokey” – Ray Anthony
Ray Anthony performing Hokey Pokey, a timeless children's group dance song.
A quintessential participation song, the “Hokey Pokey” is pure, unadulterated fun. Its simple actions – putting body parts in and out – make it incredibly easy for everyone, especially kids, to join in and enjoy the group dance experience.
#20: “The Chicken Dance” – Various Artists
The Tweets performing The Birdie Song, also known as The Chicken Dance, a fun novelty group dance.
Embrace the silliness with “The Chicken Dance.” This novelty song with its bird-like movements is a guaranteed laugh and a great way to loosen up any crowd. It’s a lighthearted group dance that’s perfect for intergenerational events.
#19: “YMCA” – Village People
“YMCA” is an iconic anthem for group participation. The simple act of spelling out Y-M-C-A with your arms has become a universal group dance move. Village People’s hit is a joyful and unifying song for any celebration.
#18: “Macarena” – Los Del Rio
Los Del Rio performing Macarena, a global phenomenon and easy-to-learn group dance.
The “Macarena” craze swept the world for a reason. Its catchy Spanish rhythm and incredibly easy-to-learn dance moves made it a global group dance phenomenon. It remains a fun and recognizable choice for getting everyone involved.
#17: “Jump On It” – Sugarhill Gang
Sugarhill Gang in 1980, performing Jump On It, a hip-hop inspired group dance song.
“Jump On It” brings a hip-hop flavor to group dancing. With its energetic beat and call-and-response style, it encourages active participation. This song is great for injecting some urban energy into your group dance set.
#16: “The Cupid Shuffle” – Cupid
“The Cupid Shuffle” is a modern line dance classic. Similar to the “Cha Cha Slide,” it provides lyrical instructions for each step, making it easy for anyone to follow and join the group dance. Its smooth R&B groove is universally appealing.
#15: “Watch Me” (Whip / Nae Nae) – Silentó
Silentó performing Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae), a viral sensation and modern group dance hit.
“Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)” captured the internet’s attention with its viral dance craze. This song is perfect for engaging younger crowds and adding a contemporary, fun vibe to your group dance playlist.
#14: “Stanky Legg” – GS Boyz
“Stanky Legg” is another hip-hop influenced track that’s great for high-energy group dancing. Its distinctive beat and memorable “Stanky Legg” move make it a fun and slightly edgy addition to your group dance repertoire.
#13: “Wobble” – V.I.C.
V.I.C. performing Wobble, a popular modern line dance song with a distinctive move.
The “Wobble” is all about that bass and the body roll. This song is a modern line dance staple, known for its relaxed, groovy vibe and signature “wobble” move. It’s perfect for getting people moving in a laid-back, fun way.
#12: “Mashed Potato Time” – Dee Dee Sharp
“Mashed Potato Time” is a throwback to the early days of dance crazes. This song encourages a retro group dance feel, inviting everyone to do “the mashed potato.” It’s a fun vintage choice for a diverse crowd.
#11: “The Locomotion” – Little Eva
Little Eva performing The Loco-Motion, a classic 60s group dance song.
“The Locomotion” is a timeless classic that gets people moving in a train-like formation. Its simple, repetitive steps and upbeat tempo make it an enduringly popular choice for group dancing across generations.
#10: “Crank That” (Soulja Boy) – Soulja Boy
“Crank That (Soulja Boy)” brought a unique and energetic dance style to the mainstream. Its distinctive Superman-inspired move made it a viral sensation and a fun, high-energy group dance option for a modern crowd.
#9: “Teach Me How To Dougie” – Cali Swag District
Cali Swag District performing Teach Me How to Dougie, a hip-hop dance craze turned group dance favorite.
“Teach Me How To Dougie” is all about individual style within a group setting. This song encourages improvisation and self-expression while still being a fun group dance experience. It’s perfect for a crowd that likes to show off their moves.
#8: “Walk It Out” – UNK
“Walk It Out” is a confident and rhythmic track that’s great for group strutting. Its catchy beat and simple, walking-based moves make it easy for everyone to participate and feel like they’re part of a cool group routine.
#7: “The Twist” – Chubby Checker
Chubby Checker performing The Twist in 1962, a revolutionary and timeless group dance.
“The Twist” is arguably the original dance craze. Chubby Checker’s hit revolutionized social dancing and remains a fun, retro group dance that transcends generations. It’s a must-have for any group dance playlist.
#6: “Horah” – Traditional Jewish Song
“Horah” is a lively and traditional circle dance, often performed at Jewish celebrations. Its energetic steps and communal circle formation make it a powerful and joyful expression of group unity and celebration.
#5: “Gangnam Style” – Psy
Psy performing Gangnam Style, a global viral sensation and unforgettable group dance.
“Gangnam Style” became a global phenomenon with its infectious beat and hilarious horse-riding dance. Psy’s hit is an unforgettable and energetic group dance that’s guaranteed to get everyone laughing and moving.
#4: “The Hustle” – Van McCoy
Van McCoy in 1975, performing The Hustle, a defining disco era group dance.
“The Hustle” is the quintessential disco line dance. Van McCoy’s instrumental hit is smooth, stylish, and perfect for creating a sophisticated yet fun group dance atmosphere. It’s a classic choice for elegant events.
#3: “The Time Warp” – Rocky Horror Picture Show
“The Time Warp” is more than a song; it’s a theatrical experience. From the Rocky Horror Picture Show, this song’s quirky lyrics and actions make it an incredibly engaging and interactive group dance. It’s perfect for adding a touch of playful drama to your event.
#2: “Conga” – Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine
Gloria Estefan performing Conga, a high-energy Latin group dance classic.
“Conga” is pure Latin energy. Gloria Estefan’s hit is infectious and encourages everyone to form a conga line and move together. It’s a high-energy, joyful group dance that’s perfect for celebrations.
#1: “Thriller” – Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson performing Thriller, an iconic music video and legendary group dance.
“Thriller” is not just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Michael Jackson’s masterpiece, with its iconic zombie dance, is the ultimate group dance experience. It’s dramatic, theatrical, and universally loved, making it the perfect number one group dance song for any event.
