Groove Your Way Through History: The Best Great Tap Dance Songs
Hello there, dance enthusiasts! Today, we're going to take a whirlwind tour through the world of great tap dance songs. Whether you're a seasoned hoofing pro or just getting started with your tap shoes, this list has something for everyone. So, grab your taps, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and great tap dance songs.
The Golden Age of Tap: Swingin' to the 1930s and 1940s
Kickstarting our list, we're jumping into the Roaring Twenties and Swingin' Forties, the golden age of tap. This era brought us some of the greatest tap dance songs and legends like Bill "Bojangles" Robinson and the Nicholas Brothers.
1. "Sing, Sing, Sing" by Benny Goodman (1937)
Start spreading the news, we're off to a swingin' start with Benny Goodman's "Sing, Sing, Sing"! This big band classic is a tap dancer's dream, with its infectious rhythm and Goodman's legendary clarinet solos. It's no wonder this song is a staple in tap routines around the world.
2. "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" by Duke Ellington (1932)
Duke Ellington's timeless tune is another tap dance staple. With its irresistible swing rhythm and iconic piano licks, this song is perfect for showcasing your fancy footwork. So, get your rhythm shoes on and let the good times roll!
The 1950s: A New Beat and Great Tap Dance Songs**
The 1950s brought us rock 'n' roll, but tap dancing wasn't left behind. Dancers like Gregory Hines and Chuck Green kept the art form alive and kicking with these great tap dance songs.
3. "Blue Suede Shoes" by Elvis Presley (1956)
Elvis may have been the King of Rock 'n' Roll, but he was also a fan of tap dancing. His hit "Blue Suede Shoes" is a fantastic song to showcase your speed and precision. Just remember, no tapping in good shoes!
4. "Night and Day" by Frank Sinatra (1940)
While not a 1950s song, Frank Sinatra's smooth vocals and the song's laid-back tempo make it a perfect fit for this era. This song is great for demonstrating your ability to create complex rhythms with simple steps.
The 1960s and Beyond: Great Tap Dance Songs for Every Style
As tap dancing evolved, so did the great tap dance songs that accompanied it. From Broadway showstoppers to pop hits, there's a song for every style and skill level.
5. "42nd Street" by Harry Warren (1933)
This Broadway classic might be an oldie, but it's still a goodie! "42nd Street" is a must-learn song for every tap dancer. Its lively tempo and catchy melody make it a crowd-pleaser, whether you're performing on stage or at your local dance studio.
6. "Happy Feet" by Michael Jackson (1989)
Speaking of crowd-pleasers, how could we not include the King of Pop's "Happy Feet"? This upbeat track is perfect for showing off your footwork and getting the audience clapping along. So, channel your inner MJ and get ready to moonwalk your way into their hearts!
The 21st Century: Great Tap Dance Songs for the New Millennium
Tap dancing has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to shows like "So You Think You Can Dance" and "Dancing with the Stars." Here are some great tap dance songs that are sure to inspire the next generation of hoofers.
7. "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen (1979)
This classic rock anthem is perfect for high-energy tap routines. With its driving beat and unforgettable chorus, "Don't Stop Me Now" will have you tapping your way to glory in no time.
8. "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (2014)
If you're looking for a more contemporary track, look no further than "Uptown Funk." This funky, feel-good song is perfect for showcasing your unique style and getting the audience on their feet. So, put on your best funky face and let the good times roll!
Honorable Mentions: More Great Tap Dance Songs to Add to Your Playlist
We couldn't stop at just eight songs! Here are some more great tap dance songs that deserve a spot on your playlist:
- "Puttin' on the Ritz" by Fred Astaire (1930) - "Cheek to Cheek" by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong (1956) - "New York, New York" by Frank Sinatra (1979) - "Step in Time" from Mary Poppins (1964) - "Tap Your Troubles Away" by Savion Glover (1996) - "Dancin' Fool" by Frank Zappa (1979) - "The Charleston" by The Golden Gate Orchestra (1923) - "The Tap Dance Kid" by Henry Krieger (1984)
Final Thoughts: Keep on Tappin' with These Great Tap Dance Songs!
There you have it, folks! Our list of great tap dance songs spans nearly a century of music, from the swingin' sounds of the 1930s to the modern beats of today. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's a song (and a style) for everyone on this list.
So, grab your taps, crank up the tunes, and get ready to dance your way to greatness. And remember, as the great Savion Glover once said, "Tap dancing is like life. You have to keep moving, keep grooving, and never give up." Happy tapping!
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