In “20 of the Best Breakdancing Songs,” readers are treated to a carefully curated list of tracks that are synonymous with the art of breakdancing. Spanning various genres and time periods, this compilation features songs that have enthralled both seasoned breakdancers and newcomers alike. From the iconic “Paid In Full” by Eric B & Rakim, to the groovy “Dancing Machine” by The Jackson 5, and the influential “Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force, each song is described in a brief yet captivating manner, emphasizing how its energetic and rhythmic qualities make it the perfect accompaniment to breakdance moves such as top rocks, freezes, and power moves. Get ready to move and groove to this diverse lineup that pays homage to the vibrant world of breakdancing.
1. Paid In Full by Eric B & Rakim
Description
“Paid In Full” by Eric B & Rakim is a classic hip-hop track that is often hailed as one of the greatest rap songs of all time. Released in 1987, the song features Eric B’s iconic DJ skills combined with Rakim’s smooth and lyrical flow. The track’s production and wordplay highlight the duo’s impressive talents, making it a must-listen for hip-hop enthusiasts.
Breakdancing Qualities
With its infectious beat and catchy rhythm, “Paid In Full” is a favorite among breakdancers. The song’s energetic tempo and dynamic bassline create the perfect backdrop for showcasing breakdance moves. Whether it’s executing precise footwork or performing gravity-defying power moves, breakdancers find that “Paid In Full” allows them to showcase their skills with style and flair.
Genre
“Paid In Full” falls under the genre of hip-hop. It showcases the golden age of rap music, which emerged in the 1980s. Influenced by funk, soul, and disco, hip-hop music revolutionized the music industry with its unique blend of spoken word poetry and rhythmic beats.
Era
The release of “Paid In Full” in 1987 marks its place in the era of the golden age of hip-hop. This era saw the rise of legendary artists and the emergence of hip-hop as a cultural movement. During this time, breakdancing became synonymous with hip-hop, and “Paid In Full” played a significant role in shaping the artistic expression of breakdancers.
2. Dancing Machine by The Jackson 5
Description
“Dancing Machine” by The Jackson 5 is an upbeat and infectious disco-funk track released in 1974. Known for their soulful harmonies and charismatic performances, The Jackson 5 delivers an energetic and captivating performance in “Dancing Machine.”
Breakdancing Qualities
“Dancing Machine” gets breakdancers grooving to its funky rhythm. The song’s pulsating beat and irresistible melody drive breakdancers to showcase their footwork, spins, and intricate freezes. With its infectious energy and catchy hooks, “Dancing Machine” creates a lively atmosphere that brings out the best in breakdancers.
Genre
“Dancing Machine” falls into the genre of disco-funk. This genre was popular in the 1970s and combined elements of funk music with disco’s upbeat tempo. The Jackson 5’s unique blend of soulful vocals and funky instrumentals exemplifies the disco-funk style that defined the era.
Era
The release of “Dancing Machine” in 1974 places it firmly within the era of disco. This era was known for its vibrant and colorful music scene, with disco becoming a mainstream phenomenon. By incorporating danceable beats and infectious melodies, disco music played a significant role in inspiring breakdancers to showcase their skills and express themselves on the dance floor.
3. Planet Rock by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force
Description
“Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force is a groundbreaking track that helped shape the future of hip-hop and electronic music. Released in 1982, the song features a fusion of electro, funk, and hip-hop elements that create a unique and futuristic sound.
Breakdancing Qualities
“Planet Rock” has become an iconic track in the breakdancing scene. The song’s infectious electronic beats and pulsating rhythm inspired breakdancers to push the boundaries of their moves. With its energetic and futuristic sound, “Planet Rock” provided the perfect backdrop for breakdancers to showcase their robotic moves, fluid footwork, and intricate freezes.
Genre
“Planet Rock” can be classified as a fusion of electro, funk, and hip-hop. The song’s innovative production techniques and use of synthesizers helped pioneer the genre of electro-funk. By blending elements from different genres, “Planet Rock” created a fresh and exciting sound that laid the foundation for future electronic music.
Era
The release of “Planet Rock” in 1982 signifies its place in the era of early hip-hop and the emergence of electronic music. This era saw artists like Afrika Bambaataa and The Soul Sonic Force experiment with new sounds and technologies, pushing the boundaries of what was previously considered possible. “Planet Rock” served as a catalyst for the fusion of electronic and hip-hop music, leading to the development of genres like electro and breakbeat.
4. Apache by The Incredible Bongo Band
Description
“Apache” by The Incredible Bongo Band is an instrumental track that has become synonymous with breakdancing culture. Originally released in 1973 as part of a movie soundtrack, the song gained popularity in the breakdancing community due to its infectious beats and captivating rhythms.
Breakdancing Qualities
“Apache” has all the elements that make it a breakdancer’s anthem. The song’s dynamic percussion and driving rhythm create the perfect foundation for breakdancers to showcase their skills. Whether it’s executing fast and intricate footwork or performing power moves, breakdancers find themselves drawn to the irresistible energy of “Apache.”
Genre
“Apache” falls under the genre of funk. The song’s infectious groove and powerful instrumental arrangement capture the essence of funk music, which was popular in the 1970s. By combining elements of soul, R&B, and jazz, funk music created a unique sound that would go on to influence various genres, including hip-hop and breakdancing.
Era
The release of “Apache” in 1973 situates it within the era of funk and soul music. This era was characterized by the rise of influential funk bands and the exploration of new musical styles. As breakdancing emerged as a cultural phenomenon, “Apache” became a staple in the breakdancing community and continues to be revered as an iconic track within the scene.
5. It’s Just Begun by Jimmy Castor Bunch
Description
“It’s Just Begun” by Jimmy Castor Bunch is an energetic funk track released in 1972. Known for its infectious horn section and lively vocals, the song has become a staple in the breakdancing community.
Breakdancing Qualities
“It’s Just Begun” is beloved among breakdancers for its pulsating rhythm and lively instrumentation. The energetic horns, driving bassline, and catchy melody create the perfect atmosphere for breakdancers to showcase their skills. From top rocks and footwork to power moves and freezes, breakdancers find themselves drawn to the irresistible groove of “It’s Just Begun.”
Genre
“It’s Just Begun” falls under the genre of funk. The song’s lively instrumentation and dynamic arrangements exemplify the characteristics that define funk music. By blending elements of soul, jazz, and R&B, funk music created a unique and danceable sound that continues to inspire breakdancers.
Era
The release of “It’s Just Begun” in 1972 places it within the era of funk and soul music. This era was characterized by the exploration of new musical styles and the rise of influential funk artists. As breakdancing emerged as a cultural phenomenon, “It’s Just Begun” became a go-to track for breakdancers looking to showcase their moves and elevate the energy on the dance floor.
6. Rockit by Herbie Hancock
Description
“Rockit” by Herbie Hancock is a groundbreaking track that seamlessly combines elements of jazz, funk, and electronic music. Released in 1983, the song revolutionized the music industry with its innovative use of synthesizers and turntable scratching.
Breakdancing Qualities
“Rockit” quickly became a favorite among breakdancers due to its futuristic sound and energetic beats. The song’s infectious rhythm and unique blend of electronic and jazz elements inspire breakdancers to push the boundaries of their creativity. Whether it’s executing intricate footwork or performing gravity-defying power moves, breakdancers find themselves captivated by the electrifying energy of “Rockit.”
Genre
“Rockit” can be classified as a fusion of jazz, funk, and electronic music. The song’s use of synthesizers, drum machines, and turntable scratching showcased Hancock’s innovative approach to music production. By bridging the gap between different genres, “Rockit” paved the way for the development of genres like electro and breakbeat.
Era
The release of “Rockit” in 1983 places it within the era of electronic music and the advent of music videos. This era witnessed the rise of innovative audiovisual productions that expanded the possibilities of music. As breakdancing continued to evolve, “Rockit” became an anthem for breakdancers looking to express themselves through their moves and embrace the futuristic sounds of the era.
7. Break Dance – Electric Boogie by West Street Mob
Description
“Break Dance – Electric Boogie” by West Street Mob is a lively and infectious track that became a hit within the breakdancing community. Released in 1983, the song’s catchy beats and energetic vocals continue to captivate breakdancers to this day.
Breakdancing Qualities
“Break Dance – Electric Boogie” was specifically created with breakdancing in mind. The song’s pulsating beats and catchy hooks serve as an invitation for breakdancers to unleash their moves on the dance floor. Its catchy melody and lively rhythm create an atmosphere filled with excitement and energy.
Genre
“Break Dance – Electric Boogie” falls within the genre of electro-funk. This genre emerged in the early 1980s and combined elements of funk music with electronic instruments and production techniques. Its upbeat tempo and energetic sound provided the perfect soundtrack for breakdancers to showcase their skills.
Era
The release of “Break Dance – Electric Boogie” in 1983 places it within the era of electro-funk and the rise of electronic music. This era saw the exploration of new sounds and technologies that would go on to shape the future of music. As breakdancing continued to gain popularity, “Break Dance – Electric Boogie” became a go-to track for breakdancers looking to create memorable moments on the dance floor.
8. The Message by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
Description
“The Message” by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five is a seminal track that not only revolutionized hip-hop but also addressed social issues and inequality within society. Released in 1982, the song’s powerful lyrics and innovative production continue to resonate with listeners.
Breakdancing Qualities
While “The Message” may not be the typical breakdancing track in terms of tempo and rhythm, its importance within the breakdancing community cannot be understated. The song’s thought-provoking lyrics and social commentary became a source of inspiration for breakdancers looking to express themselves beyond the dance floor. Breakdancers found themselves using the emotions and messages conveyed in “The Message” to enhance their performances and bring a sense of seriousness to their art.
Genre
“The Message” falls under the genre of hip-hop. The song’s powerful lyrics, delivered with emotion and conviction, helped establish hip-hop as a means of addressing social issues. The fusion of storytelling and rhythmic beats, characteristic of hip-hop, allows breakdancers to connect with the profound messages conveyed in the song.
Era
The release of “The Message” in 1982 places it within the era of early hip-hop and the rise of socially conscious rap music. As breakdancing continued to evolve, the lyrics and themes present in “The Message” resonated with breakdancers who sought to use their art as a platform for addressing social injustices. The song’s influence on breakdancers extends beyond its musical qualities, highlighting the powerful impact that hip-hop has had on the culture surrounding breakdancing.
9. Got to Give It Up by Marvin Gaye
Description
“Got to Give It Up” by Marvin Gaye is a disco-infused track released in 1977 that has become a favorite among breakdancers. Known for his soulful vocals and ability to get people on the dance floor, Marvin Gaye delivers an upbeat and catchy performance in this song.
Breakdancing Qualities
“Got to Give It Up” gets breakdancers grooving to its infectious disco beats. The song’s lively tempo and funky bassline create the perfect backdrop for breakdancers to showcase their skills. From footwork to freezes, “Got to Give It Up” provides the rhythm and energy needed for breakdancers to express themselves on the dance floor.
Genre
“Got to Give It Up” falls into the genre of disco. The song’s infectious groove and danceable rhythm exemplify the qualities that define disco music. With its incorporation of soul, funk, and R&B elements, disco music created a vibrant and energetic sound that set the stage for breakdancing to flourish.
Era
The release of “Got to Give It Up” in 1977 situates it within the era of disco and the height of its popularity. Disco music thrived during the late 1970s, creating a vibrant and inclusive culture centered around dance and self-expression. As breakdancing emerged as a cultural phenomenon, “Got to Give It Up” became an anthem for breakdancers looking to showcase their moves while embracing the infectious energy of disco.
10. Don’t Believe the Hype by Public Enemy
Description
“Don’t Believe the Hype” by Public Enemy is a powerful hip-hop track released in 1988. Known for their politically charged lyrics and innovative production, Public Enemy became an influential group within the hip-hop community.
Breakdancing Qualities
“Don’t Believe the Hype” carries a strong and powerful message that resonated with breakdancers. The song’s hard-hitting beats and aggressive delivery create an atmosphere of empowerment and resilience. Breakdancers found themselves using the energy and intensity of “Don’t Believe the Hype” to elevate their performances and connect with the deeper meaning behind their art.
Genre
“Don’t Believe the Hype” falls under the genre of hip-hop. The song’s confrontational lyrics and intense delivery exemplify the characteristics that define hip-hop at its core. Public Enemy’s ability to tackle social and political issues through their music made them an influential group within the genre.
Era
The release of “Don’t Believe the Hype” in 1988 places it within the era of politically charged hip-hop and the continued growth of the genre. As breakdancing became more than just a dance style and transformed into an art form expressing social and cultural issues, “Don’t Believe the Hype” became a rallying cry for breakdancers looking to use their art as a platform for change.
Through the variety of songs listed in this curated list, breakdancers have a diverse lineup of tracks to explore and incorporate into their routines. From classic hip-hop to disco and funk, each song brings its unique qualities to the dance floor. The rhythmic beats, energetic tempo, and infectious melodies of these songs provide the perfect soundtrack for breakdancers to showcase their skills and express themselves creatively.
Whether it’s executing precise footwork, performing gravity-defying power moves, or incorporating intricate freezes, breakdancers find that these songs bring out their passion and enthusiasm for the art form. From the iconic “Paid In Full” by Eric B & Rakim to the socially conscious “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five, the songs on this list span different genres and eras, catering to a wide range of breakdancers and their unique styles.
The breakdancing community continues to evolve, and these songs represent a snapshot of the cultural and musical influences that have shaped the art form over the years. As new generations of breakdancers emerge, they can draw inspiration from the pioneers who paved the way and the songs that continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. So, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to break it down to the rhythm of these iconic tracks!