Recommended Western dance music for beginners: world-famous classics and popular hits.
Dance music, always at the forefront of the scene and loved by many listeners.
When you think of dance music, you might imagine an irresistibly upbeat sound.
However, since the 2020s began, dance music has undergone a major shift.
Unlike earlier styles, moodier, more downbeat tracks have become mainstream, with refined taste being valued over sheer catchiness.
Even within what we broadly call dance music, there are many different styles—just as there are many kinds of dance, the moods of dance tracks vary widely.
Here, we’ve selected dance music that even beginners can enjoy.
Dance music in English for beginners: World-famous and popular tracks (1–10)
Don’t Be ShyTiësto & Karol G
Tiësto is one of the most active music producers in recent years.
Especially since 2022, his momentum has been incredible.
His collaboration with Colombia’s leading female artist, Karol G, is the track “Don’t Be Shy.” Many might assume it has a Latin sound because Karol G is featured, but surprisingly, it turns out to be a straightforward future house tune.
Its clear, accessible sound makes it a great recommendation for beginners.
STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber
One of Australia’s leading artists, The Kid LAROI is known for a sound that blends hip-hop, R&B, and dance music, and his style has often drawn comparisons to Justin Bieber.
He finally teamed up with Bieber on the track “STAY.” Centered on synth-pop, a hallmark trend of the 2020s, the song is crafted as a very refreshing piece of dance music overall.
The rhythm is easy to get into, making it a must-check for beginners.
APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars
A breezy, nostalgic track born from a collaboration between K-pop and American pop.
Bruno Mars’s rhythm-filled performance blends with Rosé’s sweet vocals to create a perfectly balanced harmony.
Inspired by a Korean drinking game, the song captivates listeners with its playful staging.
Released in October 2024 as the lead single from Rosé’s debut album “rosie,” it garnered major attention.
The two globally renowned artists weave a catchy, addictive tune, with pop-punk vibes and ’80s-inspired instrumentation that leaves listeners feeling uplifted.
Old Town RoadLil Nas X
This track features a distinctive sound that fuses country and rap.
It was independently released in December 2018 and re-released by Columbia Records in March 2019.
The lyrics symbolically portray Lil Nas X’s passion for music and his journey to success.
A collaboration with Billy Ray Cyrus brought it even greater attention.
With a boundary-crossing approach, it carries a powerful message that promotes diversity and inclusivity.
Its cool beat makes you want to get up and dance, showcasing a knack for captivating listeners.
A recommended song for anyone who wants to feel new possibilities through music.
That’s What I LikeBruno Mars
Known as a luxurious love song, this track is packed with Bruno Mars’s signature charm.
Released in January 2017 as a single from the album “24K Magic,” it won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
The song features lyrics that portray a lavish lifestyle and deep affection, leaving listeners feeling happy.
Its sound, influenced by the ’90s, incorporates elements of hip-hop soul and new jack swing, with a memorable, danceable rhythm.
With its comfortable beat that makes you want to sway, it’s a tune even beginners are sure to love.
It’s a perfect choice for those planning special memories with a partner or wanting to express their feelings to someone important.
Don’t Go YetCamila Cabello
Camila Cabello is an American singer-songwriter who represents Latin music.
Although she is from the United States, she was born in Cuba, so the distinctive qualities of Latin music are strongly reflected in her work.
Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is Don’t Go Yet.
It showcases some of the strongest Latin music elements in her catalog, yet it’s also easy to listen to, making it a great pick for beginners.
UpINNA
INNA is a leading female singer from Romania.
She’s the country’s most successful artist and has broken numerous records.
Among her works, the track I especially recommend is Up.
While she excels in genres like deep house and future house, this one features a sound rooted in Latin music.
It’s very approachable for beginners, so be sure to give it a listen.