Celebrate Queer Artists With These Pride Month Playlists

June 29, 2021

Happy Pride Month, dancers! Some of the most influential dancers, choreographers and musicians in the dance world are members of the LGBTQ+ community. To celebrate them this June, the editors at Dance Spirit have compiled some songs from their favorite queer artists into playlists and (in true Dance Media fashion) organized them based on the style of dance they suit best.

(Although if you want to mix up some genres, we certainly won’t stifle your creativity!)

Also, consider this your introduction to the official Dance Spirit Spotify! Give it a follow and stay tuned—pun intended—for more music recommendations in the future.

Hip Hop

Get your groove on with this playlist that offers a mix of tempos and genres for all your hip-hop and street-dance needs. If your only exposure to Lil Nas X is “Old Town Road,” you’ll be equally impressed by his newer releases. “Panini” is an upbeat and energetic banger to play in class, at the gym, in the car…there’s no wrong answer here. If you’re looking for something more R&B, check out “Love Language,” from singer, songwriter and dancer Kehlani. This versatile artist trained as a dancer before focusing on music, so it’s no surprise her songs are perfect for choreography.



Lyrical

The best blend of ballet and jazz technique with heart-wrenching emotion is lyrical, and these songs invite you to dance out all your feelings. Float away on the bittersweet lyrics of “Plastic,” by Moses Sumney, a melancholy track inspired by the myth of Icarus. Then dive into “Angels,” by The xx, a moody piece about unrequited love that’s perfect for an improv session.

Jazz

This playlist offers a variety of styles to cover all your bases. Sam Smith earned their spot on every choreographer’s playlist with their 2013 hit “Latch.” Their 2020 album Love Goes showcases even more smooth pop options for dancers to enjoy, like the rhythmic tune “Diamonds.” Or throw it back to the synth pop of the ’80s with “It’s a Sin,” by Pet Shop Boys, a British duo that rose to prominence in 1981 and still creates combo-worthy bops today.

Contemporary

Lyrical’s slightly edgier counterpart challenges dancers to break the mold. “Pink + White,” by Frank Ocean, offers up a groovy vibe with accents that beg to be choreographed to. Then indulge in some alternative indie with Phoebe Bridgers, whose lyrics balance angst with darkly funny metaphors to inspire your movement.