Last Updated on October 10, 2024 by Tom S. Ray

Finding the best songs for jazz dance solos can be tricky. As a dancer, I understand how challenging it can be to select that perfect tune… but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

After countless hours of listening and researching music, I’ve compiled a list of stellar tracks that will make your performance shine. Here’s the list!

Key Takeaways

• Tempo Matters: Pick songs with a tempo between 140 and 160 bpm for the best jazz dance solos.
• Mood and Lyrics: Choose songs that fit the mood you want to express, like “Mambo No. 5” for energetic vibes or “Love On The Brain” by Rihanna for deep emotions.
• Age Appropriateness: Ensure songs are suitable for the dancer’s age. Tracks like “Dime” by Rachel Crow are fun and safe for young dancers.
• Top Picks: Some great choices include “A Little Party Never Killed Nobody” by Fergie for competitions and “Gonna Get Over You” by Sara Bareilles for a unique touch.
• Editing Songs: Sometimes songs need edits to be family-friendly. For example, cut parts of “Put the Gun Down” by ZZ Ward to keep it appropriate.

How to Choose the Perfect Jazz Dance Solo Song

Choosing the right song for a jazz dance solo can be tricky. Keep reading for tips on finding one that matches your style and skills….

Tempo and Beat

Tempo and beat are key to jazz dance. The music usually has tempos between 120 and 250 beats per minute (bpm). Most jazz dances use tempos from 140 to 160 bpm.

The tempo helps dancers perform moves with the right energy. Fast songs like “A Little Party Never Killed Nobody” push you to move quickly. Slower beats might suit a song like “Love On The Brain.” Always listen carefully—feel the rhythm, then decide if it fits your style.

Lyrics and Mood

Match the song’s lyrics to the feeling you want. Choose words that speak to your heart and tell a story. This makes your dance more emotional and captivating.

The mood of a song is key. Upbeat songs like “Mambo No. 5” add energy. Slower tunes, such as “Love On The Brain” by Rihanna, let you express deep feelings through movement. Pay attention to how the music makes you feel; it will show in your dance!

Age Appropriateness

It’s crucial to pick songs that are fitting for young dancers. Elementary school kids need music that’s free from explicit lyrics and mature themes. This ensures a fun and safe environment while they dance.

For jazz solos, I love tracks like “Dime” by Rachel Crow or “Ugly Heart” by G.R.L. These songs have clean lyrics and upbeat tempos perfect for keeping high energy on the stage. Always check if the mood of the song matches the dancer’s age group too!

Top Jazz Dance Songs for Competitions

Jazz dance competitions are thrilling and vibrant. The right song can make all the difference….

“A Little Party Never Killed Nobody” by Fergie, Q-Tip, GoonRock

A Little Party Never Killed Nobody” by Fergie, Q-Tip, and GoonRock is perfect for jazz dance solos at competitions. The song has a lively beat that makes you want to move. Its catchy rhythm can highlight sharp movements and playful steps.

The mood of the song is upbeat and fun. This vibe helps dancers show off their energy and personality on stage. With its party theme, it’s easy to get into character and have a blast while performing.

“Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega

Mambo No. 5″ by Lou Bega is a great pick for jazz dance solos. Its lively beat and catchy tune make it perfect for showing off fast footwork and smooth moves on stage. The song’s tempo keeps the energy high, which judges love in competitions.

The lyrics are fun and playful, adding to the overall mood of joy in your performance. It’s suitable for various age groups, so you won’t have to worry about content issues. This classic hit can help you stand out in any jazz dance event!

“Put the Gun Down” by ZZ Ward

Put the Gun Down” by ZZ Ward is a great pick for jazz dance solos. The song has a catchy beat and sassy lyrics, making it perfect for high-energy routines. I once choreographed a trio to this track, and we did great in the competition.

To keep things family-friendly, some parts of the song need edits. Remove specific sections like 0:56 to 1:42 and part of the bridge from 1:46 to 1:56. With these changes, “Put the Gun Down” can shine on stage without any issues!

Sassy Jazz Dance Songs

If you want to strut your stuff with attitude, read on…

“Black and Gold” by Brenna Whitaker

Black and Gold” by Brenna Whitaker stands out as a great choice for sassy jazz dance solos. The song has a bold, enticing beat that grabs attention right away. Its snappy rhythm makes it easy to choreograph exciting dance moves.

The lyrics of “Black and Gold” add another layer of richness to the performance. They create a mood full of mystery and allure, perfect for captivating the audience. This song can make any dancer shine on stage with its powerful vibe and energetic tempo.

“Love On The Brain” by Rihanna

Love On The Brain” by Rihanna is a fantastic choice for a sassy jazz dance solo. It has a slow and sultry tempo that lets you show off your control and emotion. The lyrics are deep, adding mood to your performance.

Feel the music’s rhythm as it builds up. This song allows for dramatic movements and strong facial expressions. It’s also age-appropriate for teens and adults, making it versatile for many dancers.

“Valerie – Glee Cast Version” by Glee Cast

Valerie – Glee Cast Version” is a must for sassy jazz dance solos. The song has an upbeat tempo and lively beat that makes it fun to move to. It’s great for showing off sharp and confident moves.

The lyrics add a playful mood, perfect for dancers who want to shine on stage. This version also brings the energy of the original song by Amy Winehouse but adds a fresh twist with its harmonious vocals.

Jazz Dance Songs for Young Dancers

Choosing jazz dance songs for young dancers can be tricky. You want music that’s fun and age-appropriate… I’ll help you find the right tunes!

“Dime” by Rachel CrowRachel Crow has a great voice. Her song “Dime” shows off her range. She is becoming a big name in pop music. This makes her perfect for young dancers.

The beat of “Dime” is catchy and fun. It’s easy to dance to, making it ideal for jazz solos. Kids will love moving to this song. It’s age-appropriate and full of energy!

“Ugly Heart” by G.R.L.

Ugly Heart” by G.R.L. is a great pick for young dancers. The song has a catchy beat and fun lyrics, making it perfect for jazz dance solos. It’s lively and energetic, helping dancers show off their moves.

This song fits well with sassy routines too. Its upbeat tempo makes each step pop. Dancers can express themselves fully while staying age-appropriate for competitions or shows… which is really key! The bright mood of “Ugly Heart” will light up any stage and leave the audience cheering.

Unique Picks for Jazz Dance Solos

Some songs stand out and make your jazz dance solo unforgettable. These tracks have unique beats and lyrics that set them apart… perfect for making a statement on stage!

“Gonna Get Over You” by Sara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles’ “Gonna Get Over You” is a great pick for a unique jazz dance solo. Her voice jumps around joyfully in this post-breakup song. The upbeat tempo makes it fun to dance to, and the lyrics tell a story of moving on.

This song can bring sass and energy to your performance. Its lively beat helps you showcase sharp moves and quick footwork. Plus, it’s not overly used, so it will stand out in competitions! If you like dancing with emotion and flair, give this tune a try…

You’ll love how it feels!

“Gravity” by John Mayer

Gravity” by John Mayer is an excellent choice for a jazz dance solo. The song has a smooth and steady beat, which makes it easy to follow with dance moves. Its lyrics are deep and emotional, setting a thoughtful mood that can showcase your expressive abilities.

The digital sheet music for “Gravity” arranged for tenor saxophone costs $4.49 right now, down from $4.99 as part of the Autumn Instrumental Sale (Item number: 21426103). This could add a unique twist to your performance if you want live instrumentation!

Conclusion

Choosing the right song can make your jazz dance solo pop! My top picks offer a mix of energy, fun beats, and sass. Each tune has its own charm. I hope you find these suggestions helpful for your next performance.

Feel free to share any favorites in the comments!

Tom

Tom S. Ray( Mastering Engineer, Co-Founder )

Hey I’m Tom, I’m a mastering engineer here at Audio Unity Group. I mostly look after Vinyl production and audio side of things. I hold a bachelor’s degree with honours from Kingston University in London. I love audio and helping others create outstanding-sounding records.