Breakdancing, also known as breaking or b-boying, is a dance style that originated in the South Bronx in the early 1970s. It is a form of street dance that combines acrobatics, gymnastics, and breakbeats to create a unique and dynamic performance. A crucial element of breakdancing is the music, which provides the rhythm and energy that drives the movements. With so many great breakdancing songs out there, it can be difficult to choose the best ones. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 20 of the best breakdancing songs to provide inspiration for your next breakdance battle or practice session. Whether you’re a seasoned b-boy or just discovering this amazing dance style, these songs are sure to get your feet moving and your body grooving.
1.”African Battle” by Manu Dibango
“African Battle” by Manu Dibango is a high-energy, rhythm-driven track that showcases the legendary Cameroonian musician’s mastery of jazz and world music. With its pulsing beat and shimmering horns, this song invites listeners to dance and move to the sounds of Africa. The lyrics, sung in both French and English, evoke the spirit of a continent united against the forces of oppression and inequality. A classic of Afro-jazz, “African Battle” is a celebration of the resilience and strength of the African people, and a call to action for all to join the fight for justice and equality.
2. “Paid In Full (Seven Minutes Of Madness – The Coldcut Remix)” by Eric B & Rakim
“Paid In Full (Seven Minutes Of Madness – The Coldcut Remix)” by Eric B & Rakim is a classic hip-hop track that takes the original 1987 recording to new heights. The remix, done by UK production duo Coldcut, adds a new level of energy and excitement to the already iconic song. With its tight beats, pulsing bassline, and intricate scratches, this remix pushes the limits of what was possible in hip-hop production at the time. Rakim’s smooth, confident flow and Eric B’s expert turntablism combine to create a truly unforgettable musical experience. This track is a must-listen for all fans of hip-hop and its roots in the genre.
3. “One For The Treble” by Davy DMX
“One For The Treble” by Davy DMX is an electrifying track that showcases the pioneering producer’s mastery of early hip-hop production. This classic party banger features a high-energy beat and a catchy, repetitive melody that’s sure to get stuck in your head. The track is driven by Davy DMX’s innovative use of the Roland 808 drum machine, which was a staple of early hip-hop productions. The vocals are simple yet effective, and the message is clear: this is a party anthem, made for getting the crowd moving. With its relentless energy and timeless production style, “One For The Treble” is a classic hip-hop track that still packs a punch over 30 years after its release.
4. “Dancing Machine” by The Jackson 5
“Dancing Machine” by The Jackson 5 is a funky, upbeat track that showcases the vocal and musical abilities of the iconic Motown group. This song was one of the earliest recorded tracks that showcased the musical prowess of a young Michael Jackson, and it’s easy to see why he went on to become a legendary performer. With its catchy hooks, infectious beat, and high-energy chorus, “Dancing Machine” is the perfect track to get the party started. The production is classic Motown, with a lively brass section and tight rhythm section providing the backdrop for the Jackson 5’s inimitable harmonies. This song is a timeless party anthem that will get you up and dancing, no matter when or where you listen to it.
5. “Jam On It” by Newcleus
“Jam On It” by Newcleus is a classic 80s hip-hop track that is driven by a pulsing beat, groovy bassline, and infectious synths. The group’s use of cutting-edge technology, including the use of drum machines and samplers, sets this track apart from its contemporaries and solidifies Newcleus’s place in hip-hop history. The lyrics, while simple, are filled with positive energy and a call to dance, making this an undeniable party anthem. With its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and classic hip-hop production, “Jam On It” is a timeless classic that remains as fresh and exciting today as it was when it was first released.
6. “A Tribe Called Quest” by Scenario
“Scenario” by A Tribe Called Quest is a classic hip-hop track that showcases the group’s smooth flow, tight rhymes, and innovative production. The upbeat tempo, combined with the group’s positive, socially conscious lyrics, creates a powerful listening experience. The production features a mix of samples and live instrumentation, and it sets the stage for the group’s virtuosic rhymes. This song is a true hip-hop classic and a testament to the genre’s ability to bring people together through music and message. With its memorable hook, driving beat, and tight verses, “Scenario” is a must-listen for fans of classic hip-hop and the golden era of the genre.
7. “Electric Kingdom” by Twilight 22
“Electric Kingdom” by Twilight 22 is an upbeat electronic funk track that features a pulsing beat, catchy synth melodies, and soulful vocals. The song showcases the group’s ability to seamlessly blend old-school funk and soul with modern electronic production techniques. The result is a high-energy track that is both danceable and catchy, making it a timeless classic of the 80s electronic funk genre.
8. “What’s Up Doc? (Can We Rock?)” by Fu-Schnickens
“What’s Up Doc? (Can We Rock?)” by Fu-Schnickens is a classic 90s hip-hop track that features the group’s tight rhymes, clever wordplay, and innovative production. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious beat make it an ideal party anthem, while its socially conscious lyrics and positive energy make it a standout track in the genre. With its memorable hook, tight verses, and classic production, “What’s Up Doc?” is a must-listen for fans of classic hip-hop and the golden era of the genre.
9. “Joystick” by Dazz Band
“Joystick” by Dazz Band is a classic 80s funk track that features a driving beat, catchy horns, and soulful vocals. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it an ideal dance track, while its classic funk production and instrumentation give it a timeless feel. With its memorable hook, tight horns, and classic production, “Joystick” is a must-listen for fans of classic funk and 80s dance music.
10. “Break Dance – Electric Boogie” by West Street Mob
“Break Dance – Electric Boogie” by West Street Mob is a classic 80s breakdance track that features a driving beat, catchy synth melodies, and tight rhymes. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it an ideal party anthem, while its innovative production and instrumentation set it apart from its contemporaries. With its memorable hook, driving beat, and classic production, “Break Dance – Electric Boogie” is a must-listen for fans of classic breakdance and hip-hop.
11. “Cars” by Gary Numan
“Cars” by Gary Numan is a classic electronic track that features a pulsing beat, atmospheric synths, and haunting vocals. The song’s driving beat and dystopian lyrics make it a standout track in the electronic genre, while its innovative production and timeless feel make it a classic of the 80s. With its memorable hook, atmospheric synths, and haunting vocals, “Cars” is a must-listen for fans of classic electronic and new wave music.
12. “Feel It In Your Soul” by Randa and the Soul Kingdom
“Feel It In Your Soul” by Randa and the Soul Kingdom is a soulful, upbeat track that features a driving beat, catchy horns, and soulful vocals. The song’s infectious energy and classic production make it an ideal dance track, while its soulful feel and timeless instrumentation give it a classic feel. With its memorable hook, tight horns, and soulful vocals, “Feel It In Your Soul” is a must-listen for fans of classic soul and funk music.
13. “You’re Hip Miss Pastorfield” by Fred Karlin
“You’re Hip Miss Pastorfield” by Fred Karlin is a quirky instrumental track that features a driving beat, catchy horns, and whimsical instrumentation. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful energy make it an ideal party track, while its innovative production and timeless feel make it a classic of the 60s and 70s. With its memorable hook, tight horns, and quirky instrumentation, “You’re Hip Miss Pastorfield” is a must-listen for fans of instrumental music and the golden era of the genre.
14. “Down With the Trumpets” by Rizzle Kicks
“Down With the Trumpets” by Rizzle Kicks is a high-energy pop-rap track with a catchy trumpet riff and a fun party vibe. The lyrics are about living life to the fullest and enjoying the moment, with references to dancing and letting loose. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a perfect choice for a lively party or dance session.
15. “Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force
“Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force is a classic hip-hop track that was released in 1982. This track is considered one of the first songs to blend elements of funk and electronic music, and it is widely credited with being a pioneer of the genre. The track features a driving beat, electronic sound effects, and vocals that call for unity and peace among all people. With its classic status and enduring influence, “Planet Rock” remains a staple of hip-hop culture and a must-listen for all fans of the genre.
16. “The Breaks” by Kurtis Blow
“The Breaks” by Kurtis Blow is a classic hip-hop track that was released in 1980. It is considered to be the first commercially successful rap single and is widely recognized as a landmark in hip-hop history. The song features a funky beat, catchy samples, and Kurtis Blow’s smooth flow, making it a standout track in the early days of hip-hop. The lyrics talk about the struggles of making it in the music industry and the importance of perseverance.
17. “Pam” by Crazy Elephant
“Pam” by Crazy Elephant is a lively pop-rock song that was released in 1969. It is known for its cheerful, upbeat tone and playful lyrics that tell the story of a girl named Pam. The song features catchy guitar riffs, upbeat drums, and a lively vocal performance, making it a classic party song that still gets people moving today. The song’s catchy melody and cheerful lyrics have made it a timeless classic that continues to be popular with audiences of all ages.
18. “We Are Electric” by Flying Steps
“We Are Electric” by Flying Steps is a high-energy techno track that was released in 2000. It features a driving beat and soaring synths that create an uplifting and energetic vibe. The lyrics encourage listeners to let their bodies move to the beat and celebrate the power of dance and music. This song is perfect for pumping up a crowd and getting people on their feet.
19. “When I Hear Music” by Debbie Deb
“When I Hear Music” by Debbie Deb is a classic freestyle track that was released in 1983. It features a catchy beat, upbeat synths, and Debbie Deb’s smooth, soulful vocals. The song is widely regarded as a classic of the freestyle genre and is known for its upbeat, danceable sound and positive lyrics. The song is still widely played and celebrated today for its timeless appeal and its influence on the development of the freestyle genre.
20. “Stop Me” by Mark Ronson
“Stop Me” by Mark Ronson is a funky, soulful pop song that was released in 2007. It features a driving beat, catchy horns, and the soulful vocals of Daniel Merriweather. The song is known for its upbeat, danceable sound and its catchy chorus, and has been widely praised for its fusion of classic soul and contemporary pop elements. The song has been widely played on the radio and in clubs, and has become a staple of Mark Ronson’s musical legacy.