Top 10 Songs with Their Own Dance

For a song about a deviant sexual practice that asks listeners to “superman a ho,” the world just couldn’t get enough of this hip-hop dance craze. Released in 2007, “Crank That” requires a bit of flexibility as one first must be able to actually to cross their arms on beat – certainly a difficult task for many - yet there’s also some fancy footwork involved too. Love it or hate it, Soulja Boy’s breakthrough single was huge… Did you know the dance?

Now we’re gonna go way back. Back into time. For a song by a Washington D.C. native that once wrote for The Shirelles and even worked with the iconic duo of Leiber and Stoller. Let’s be honest – pretty much anybody can do the hustle, as the basic moves involve some pointing, a sense of direction and a little arm rolling. In other words, your momma can do The Hustle and even your Granddaddy too. While Van McCoy wouldn’t survive the disco era that was the 70s, his timeless production lives on in the cinematic world, and at retro-themed parties.

Silento … doesn’t it sound … mysterious? Well, the maestro behind this dance is actually a teenager by the name of Richard. Taking a page out of Soulja Boy’s book, Silentó created a dance craze that swept the nation and had everybody and their uncle getting down with the chorus. For an artist that cites Justin Bieber as an influence, let’s say the moves have a modern feel as one must shake that stanky legg, break said leg and then bop. Of course, you gotta Superman that thing too.

Tucked away between “Over at the Frankstein Place” and “Sweet Transvestite,” this song and dance number from the cult musical Rocky Horror Picture Show never fails to make fans lose their inhibitions. With a set of simple-minded instructions, “Time Warp” gets people into the mood, and then boom – the pelvic thrust. Despite the relatively easy dance routine, you’ll still find people that focus intently on the lyrics, when all they really need to do is jump around and throw their hands in the air.

Hey pops, don't worry. We didn’t forget about “The Charleston”. Back in a more innocent time when just the idea of pelvic thrusting made people sweat, a man named James P. Johnson composed a ditty that introduced a most creative dance number. On a basic level, one must have a general sense of rhythm to get those legs kickin’ to the side, but once you grasp the concept, a little freestylin’ will take your Charleston to the next level. Of course, some individuals will forever struggle with the basic steps, but hey – that’s what YouTube is for.

Contrary to popular belief, Madonna didn’t actually invent this style of dancing but rather showcased the concept with her iconic 1990 hit. In fact, Voguing can be traced back to 1960s Harlem, as it was African-Americans that first conceptualized the routine. Even so, the titular song put the “Vogue”-inspired dance on the map, and whether it’s LGBT ballrooms or just random acts of voguing, everybody seems to grasp the essence of this particular form of self-expression. Just say the word and strike a pose.

A dance so original it took over 30 nights to craft, "Gangnam Style" met such success upon its release that Psy couldn't have even come close to predicting it! And no one could have quite predicted the well over 2 billion views the song has earned since, quickly becoming the most viewed video of all time on YouTube. Thanks to the horse dance and its other moves, "Gangnam Style" has been parodied time and time again, all while bringing K-pop a little closer to mainstream audiences around the world. So it's no surprise that Psy will continue to be gracing dance floors everywhere for years to come.

If “Achy Breaky Heart” inspires a sense of external belonging, this jam inspires a union of physical and emotional harmony. Just look at the members of Los del Rio, and you’ll understand the central component to this dance, as one must find a way to visually sell the experience. Step 1 – you gotta smile, because nobody likes to watch anybody that looks uncomfortable doing the “Macarena.” Step 2 – just get into the vibe. If you can't find a vibe one will be provided for you. Although Los del Río may be considered a one hit wonder with this track, their legacy lives on through this timeless dance.

We know you know this song. So what are you waiting for? Get up and do the twist! Originally recorded by Hank Ballard and the Midnighters, it was when Philly-based Chubby Checker got his hands on the track that it became a dance floor craze. Back in 1960, the concept of free form groove was a provocative concept and without “The Twist,” millions of people may have never been born.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Teach Me How to Dougie” (2010)
Cali Swag District

“Cat Daddy” (2011)
The Rej3ctz

“Walk Like an Egyptian” (1986)
The Bangles

“Party Rock Anthem” (2011)
LMFAO

“Ai Se Eu Te Pego!” (2011)
Michel Teló

It’s the song about the Young Men’s Christian Association and television legend Dick Clark played a role in creating one of the most widely recognized dances ever made. In a 1979 episode of “American Bandstand,” the audience performed the now iconic moves during an interview, and regardless of whether all members of The Village People approved, nothing was going to stop the world from physically spelling the alphabet. Ever. At sporting events. At weddings. Heck, we wouldn’t even be surprised if the dance started showing up at church.

So, do you agree with our selections? What is your favorite song with its own dance? For more mind-blowing Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.