Music

Songs with the most iconic dances in history

Explore the most recognizable dance moves that have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From music video choreography to film scenes, discover the songs that inspired iconic dances. This collection celebrates the influence of music and dance in entertainment history. Relive the steps that made history and are still imitated and celebrated worldwide today.

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  1. 1

    Rhythm Nation (1989)

    283 Global Votes
    • Iconic music video style

      (+4)

    Janet Jackson's 'Rhythm Nation' is celebrated for its military-style fashions and clean, sharp, and unified dance moves. The powerful music video showcased unity through dance, with choreography that remains influential in pop culture.

  2. 2

    Hot To Go! (2023)

    105 Global Votes
    • Features an iconic dance

      (+4)

    Chappell Roan's 'Hot To Go!' has recently gained significant popularity, with its music video and accompanying dance routine reminiscent of The Village People. Crowds of thousands performing this super fun dance live make it a current iconic dance.

  3. 3

    Vogue (1990)

    57 Global Votes
    • Groundbreaking song and cultural phenomenon

      (+3)

    Madonna's 'Vogue' brought the underground 'voguing' dance style from the Harlem ballroom scene into the mainstream. Its striking poses and elegant movements became an international phenomenon, influencing fashion and dance globally.

  4. 4

    Y.M.C.A. (1978)

    36 Global Votes
    • Iconic dance moves originated from audience participation

      (+1)

    The Village People's 'Y.M.C.A.' is synonymous with its iconic, easy-to-follow arm movements that spell out the song's title. This universally recognized choreography has made it a timeless party anthem, uniting people on dance floors across generations.

  5. 5

    Night Fever (1978)

    21 Global Votes
    • Features an iconic dance scene

      (+4)

    Bee Gees' 'Night Fever' became the anthem of the disco era, largely due to John Travolta's iconic moves in 'Saturday Night Fever.' The dance captured the energetic and glamorous spirit of the 70s, defining a generation's dance style.

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  7. 6

    Lambada (1989)

    16 Global Votes
    • Characterized by arched legs and side-to-side steps

      (+4)

    Kaoma's 'Lambada' introduced the sensual and intimate lambada dance to a global audience, making it an international sensation. Its captivating rhythm and close-partner movements defined a dance craze that swept across continents.

  8. 7

    Gangnam Style (2012)

    11 Global Votes
    • Features an iconic horse-riding dance move

      (+4)

    Psy's 'Gangnam Style' exploded onto the international scene, transcending cultural boundaries with its viral 'horse-riding' dance move. This global phenomenon united people in a shared, joyful dance experience, breaking YouTube records.

  9. 8

    Cha Cha Slide (2000)

    5 Global Votes
    • Accompanied by a beloved line dance

      (+4)

    DJ Casper's 'Cha Cha Slide' is a unique line dance with step-by-step instructions embedded directly into the song. This innovative approach made it incredibly easy for everyone to follow, turning it into a global phenomenon at events and parties.

  10. 9

    The Twist (1960)

    0 Global Votes
    • Became a worldwide dance craze

      (+2)

    This song introduced a revolutionary dance move that allowed individuals to dance apart from their partners, becoming a global sensation. Its simplicity and infectious rhythm ensured its enduring popularity, making it a staple at parties for decades.

  11. 10

    Billie Jean

    0 Global Votes
    • Features the iconic moonwalk dance move

      (+4)

    Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean' is legendary for introducing the moonwalk and other groundbreaking, smooth dance moves. Its innovative choreography and the King of Pop's unparalleled performance set a new standard for music videos and live performances.

  12. 11

    Thriller (1983)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features iconic dance moves

      (+4)

    Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' boasts arguably the most popular music video of all time, featuring an elaborate zombie-themed dance routine. Its groundbreaking choreography had a massive effect on popular culture, making it instantly recognizable and widely imitated.

  13. 12

    Dancing in the Dark (1984)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features Courteney Cox dancing

      (+4)

    Bruce Springsteen's 'Dancing In The Dark' music video features a memorable moment where he dances with a young Courteney Cox. This simple, joyful interaction became iconic, reportedly inspiring other famous dance moves in pop culture.

  14. 13

    Macarena

    0 Global Votes
    • Features an easy-to-follow dance routine

      (+4)

    Los Del Rio's 'Macarena' (Bayside Boys Mix) became one of the most iconic line dances ever, with its simple, repetitive arm and hip movements. This global craze is still performed at countless events and parties worldwide, transcending language barriers.

  15. 14

    (Crank That) Soulja Boy (2007)

    0 Global Votes
    • Invented iconic dance moves

      (+4)

    Soulja Boy Tell 'Em's '(Crank That) Soulja Boy' popularized 'The Soulja Boy' dance, characterized by its distinct cranking motions. This self-released track became a massive hit, inspiring people to instinctively perform the dance whenever the song plays.

  16. 15

    Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) - Beyoncé (2008)

    0 Global Votes
    • Spawns a massive dance craze

      (+4)

    Beyoncé's 'Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)' features a powerful and minimalistic dance sequence that sparked a global craze. Its iconic hand-twists and hip-sways became a lasting symbol of female empowerment and a cultural phenomenon.

  17. 16

    Uptown Funk

    0 Global Votes
    • Inspires dance workouts for fun and exercise

      (+4)

    Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars' 'Uptown Funk' is a vibrant homage to the funk era, with energetic and catchy dance steps. Its choreography blends classic styles with modern flair, making it enjoyable to watch and experience, and a Grammy Award winner.

  18. 17

    Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)

    0 Global Votes
    • Inspired people to have fun

      (+4)

    Silentó's 'Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)' popularized several distinct dance moves, including the 'Whip' and the 'Nae Nae.' This mid-2000s hit inspired a widespread dance craze, becoming a recognizable party starter and a staple in popular culture.