Top 8 world stage line dances
On the world stage, line dancing has transcended its traditional association with country music and American culture. It has become a global phenomenon, blending diverse musical styles and cultural influences. In various regions, different line dances and songs have risen to prominence, creating a rich tapestry of rhythmic movement that reflects local tastes while staying connected to the universal appeal of dance. Here are some of the top line dance songs from around the world that have gained international recognition and continue to bring people together on the dance floor:
1. “Jerusalema” by Master KG (South Africa)
Perhaps one of the biggest global dance hits in recent years, “Jerusalema” by South African producer Master KG, featuring vocalist Nomcebo, has become a worldwide sensation. Released in 2019, the song gained viral popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, with people from all walks of life taking part in the “Jerusalema Challenge,” performing a line dance to this infectious Afro-house track.
The dance associated with “Jerusalema” is simple but joyful, consisting of repeated shuffling steps, kicks, and turns that can be performed solo or in a group. The song’s upbeat tempo and uplifting melody have made it a favorite for bringing people together in times of uncertainty, symbolizing unity and resilience. Its success on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram catapulted it to global recognition, with people from Europe, South America, and even Asia participating in the trend.
2. “Gangnam Style” by PSY (South Korea)
In 2012, South Korean artist PSY took the world by storm with “Gangnam Style,” a K-pop hit that became the first video to reach one billion views on YouTube. While not a traditional line dance song in the same vein as American country tunes, “Gangnam Style” inspired its own dance craze, with the signature “horse-riding” dance move becoming a global phenomenon.
Though the song has a fast tempo and quirky choreography, it’s performed in a way that allows large groups of people to join in, making it a fun, inclusive experience at parties and social gatherings. The viral nature of the dance, combined with the playful, energetic beat of the song, cemented “Gangnam Style” as a global dance anthem. It’s particularly popular in nightclubs, festivals, and public flash mobs, where the communal joy of dancing is celebrated.
3. “Macarena” by Los del Río (Spain)
Few songs have had the global impact of “Macarena,” a Spanish dance hit by Los del Río. Released in 1993, this song became an international sensation, particularly after the Bayside Boys remix gave it English-language appeal. The “Macarena” dance consists of a series of simple hand and arm movements followed by a jump, making it incredibly easy for anyone to join in, regardless of age or skill level.
The song’s repetitive, catchy beat and simple moves made it a staple at weddings, parties, and sporting events across the globe. Its popularity in the 1990s was unprecedented, with “Macarena” becoming one of the most iconic line dances of all time. Even today, decades after its release, it remains a go-to for large social gatherings where participants can easily follow along and enjoy the collective experience of dancing.
4. “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” by Michel Teló (Brazil)
Brazilian singer Michel Teló’s “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” became a worldwide hit in 2011, thanks in part to the dance that accompanies it. This catchy Brazilian sertanejo song quickly spread across Europe, Latin America, and beyond, with its line dance taking hold at football stadiums, nightclubs, and parties. Football stars like Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo were seen dancing to the tune, further popularizing it internationally.
The dance moves for “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” are simple, involving side steps, claps, and hip movements, making it accessible for beginners while still maintaining a fun, flirty vibe. The song’s infectious rhythm, coupled with its catchy chorus, has made it a popular choice for group dances, especially in Brazil, Portugal, and Spain.
5. “The Ketchup Song (Aserejé)” by Las Ketchup (Spain)
Released in 2002, “The Ketchup Song” by Spanish girl group Las Ketchup became an international summer hit, thanks in part to its accompanying dance routine. While the lyrics of “Aserejé” are nonsensical, the upbeat, flamenco-inspired rhythm of the song, combined with its simple choreography, made it a favorite at parties and events around the world.
The dance involves coordinated arm and hip movements that are easy to learn and replicate, making it an ideal choice for large groups. Its playful, carefree nature helped “The Ketchup Song” reach the top of the charts in several countries, including many in Europe and Latin America. Like the “Macarena” before it, “Aserejé” became a cultural phenomenon, cementing its place in the global line dance canon.
6. “Danza Kuduro” by Don Omar feat. Lucenzo (Puerto Rico/Portugal)
A mix of Latin and Afro-Caribbean beats, “Danza Kuduro” by Puerto Rican reggaeton star Don Omar and French-Portuguese singer Lucenzo became a massive hit in 2010. The song’s lively rhythm, inspired by Angolan kuduro music, combined with reggaeton’s infectious beats, made it a dance-floor favorite.
“Danza Kuduro” lends itself well to line dancing, with simple footwork and repetitive arm movements that make it accessible to dancers of all skill levels. The song became a staple at clubs, parties, and festivals around the world, particularly in Latin American and European countries. Its vibrant energy and cross-cultural appeal make it a global favorite for group dances.
7. “Sirtaki” from “Zorba the Greek” (Greece)
“Sirtaki,” famously featured in the 1964 film Zorba the Greek, is one of Greece’s most iconic line dances. The music, composed by Mikis Theodorakis, starts slowly and gradually increases in tempo, reflecting the growing intensity of the dance. Sirtaki is often performed in a semi-circle or straight line, with dancers holding hands or linking arms.
While the steps start slow and simple, as the tempo increases, the movements become more energetic, with hops, kicks, and fast-paced footwork. The emotional crescendo of the dance mirrors the music, making it a deeply immersive experience. “Sirtaki” has become a cultural symbol of Greece and is performed at festivals, weddings, and celebrations worldwide, offering a powerful example of how line dancing can express cultural identity and collective joy.
8. “Tennessee Waltz” (USA)
A more traditional option in the world of line dancing is the “Tennessee Waltz,” a slower and more graceful dance that accompanies the country classic of the same name. Originally recorded by Patti Page in 1950, this song remains a staple in country music and line dancing, particularly in the United States.
The line dance that goes along with the “Tennessee Waltz” involves sweeping, flowing movements that reflect the smooth, melodic waltz rhythm of the song. While not as fast-paced as some of the other songs on this list, the “Tennessee Waltz” offers a more elegant and refined line dancing experience, making it a favorite at country music events and formal gatherings.
Conclusion – Global Beats, Universal Joy
Line dancing is truly a global phenomenon, with its reach extending far beyond its American country roots. From the streets of South Africa to the beaches of Brazil, and from Spanish party anthems to Greek cultural dances, line dancing has brought people together across borders and cultures. Each of the songs mentioned has contributed to the international appeal of line dancing, providing moments of shared joy and rhythm.
No matter where in the world you are, these songs and dances prove that the universal language of music and movement can unite people, break down barriers, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re performing the “Jerusalema” shuffle in South Africa or mastering the “Gangnam Style” moves in South Korea, line dancing remains a powerful reminder of the joy of collective experience.
Wanne try those?
1. “Jerusalema” by Master KG (South Africa)
2. “Gangnam Style” by PSY (South Korea)
3. “Macarena” by Los del Río (Spain)
5. “The Ketchup Song (Aserejé)” by Las Ketchup (Spain)
6. “Danza Kuduro” by Don Omar feat. Lucenzo (Puerto Rico/Portugal)
7. “Sirtaki” from “Zorba the Greek” (Greece)
8. “Tennessee Waltz” (USA)
Online resources
Here are some online resources where you can find tutorials, music, and information on the steps for the line dances associated with the songs mentioned:
1. Jerusalema (Master KG, South Africa)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Jerusalema Dance Challenge Tutorial
- This video breaks down the simple yet joyful dance steps that swept the globe.
Music:
- Available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube by searching for “Jerusalema – Master KG.”
2. Gangnam Style (PSY, South Korea)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Gangnam Style Dance Tutorial
- Learn the viral “horse-riding” moves from this detailed guide.
Music:
- Available on all major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Search for “Gangnam Style – PSY.”
3. Macarena (Los del Río, Spain)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Macarena Dance Tutorial
- A simple breakdown of the iconic Macarena hand and arm movements.
Music:
- Available on streaming platforms, search for “Macarena – Los del Río.”
4. Ai Se Eu Te Pego (Michel Teló, Brazil)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Ai Se Eu Te Pego Dance Tutorial
- Step-by-step guide to dancing along to this Brazilian hit.
Music:
- Streamable on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Search for “Ai Se Eu Te Pego – Michel Teló.”
5. The Ketchup Song (Aserejé) (Las Ketchup, Spain)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: The Ketchup Song Dance Tutorial
- Follow along with the fun and easy hand and foot movements of the “Aserejé” dance.
Music:
- Stream it on major platforms like Spotify and YouTube.
6. Danza Kuduro (Don Omar feat. Lucenzo, Puerto Rico/Portugal)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Danza Kuduro Dance Tutorial
- Detailed tutorial on the simple steps to the rhythmic beats of this hit song.
Music:
- Available for streaming on Spotify and Apple Music. Look for “Danza Kuduro – Don Omar.”
7. Sirtaki (from Zorba the Greek, Greece)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Sirtaki Dance Tutorial
- Learn the traditional Greek Sirtaki line dance step by step.
Music:
- Listen to the iconic “Zorba the Greek” soundtrack on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
8. Tennessee Waltz (Patti Page, USA)
Tutorials and Dance Steps:
- YouTube Dance Tutorial: Tennessee Waltz Line Dance Tutorial
- A guide to the graceful waltz steps that accompany this classic.
Music:
- Available for streaming on all major platforms, search for “Tennessee Waltz – Patti Page.”
These resources should give you a great start in learning the steps and enjoying the music that fuels these line dances.
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