Top 20 Male Singers Who Can Dance

After graduating from a performing arts academy, Ramos made a name for himself in Lin Manuel Miranda’s “In the Heights” and “Hamilton.” After building his foundation as a triple-threat, he began releasing his own music in 2017. As his career took off, the performer’s talent was notably on full display in the blockbuster “In the Heights” film. He continued to carry that confidence into his solo music ventures, where he never confines himself to a genre or style. From a laid back groove to precise choreography, the singer can do it all.

You might not guess that the mask-wearing and guitar-playing country singer actually started out drumming in a punk band and touring with musical theater productions. The breakout star is an enigma in more ways than one. Just like he’s always been drawn to Westerns, he’s always had an affinity for performing. His dynamic stage presence is a tribute to his years of ballet training, which he shows off in the “Hope to Die” music video. With talent like that, we can only hope to see more dancing from the performer in the future.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Jaden Smith began acting from a very young age. Not only did his role in the 2010 remake of “The Karate Kid” put him in the spotlight, but it also introduced the world to his dancing skills. He then went from showing off his moves on talk shows to performing alongside Justin Bieber. When he later decided to transition into the music industry, his love for dance fit naturally into his performances. Rather than taking on intense choreography, Smith is more known for his chilled grooves and impressive moonwalk.

Though he’s best known for his online controversies, Billboard hits, and Grammy awards, Lil Nas X is also one of the industry’s best performers. While most rappers opt for hand motions and backup dancers, the singer doesn’t hesitate to join in. By mixing in queer dance styles and pushing the boundaries of gender norms, Nas is redefining rap performance. Even though he still loves to troll, his talent is undeniable. From pole dancing in heels to a cheer routine in a mini skirt, it seems like the artist can do it all.

While most people were introduced to Omarion through B2k, he actually got his start as a girl group backup dancer. Soon, his talent earned him a spot in a brand new boy band, and they quickly became a huge success. The singer was even cast in “You Got Served,” a memorable early 2000s movie that gave us so many iconic dance battles. In 2005, he tested the waters with his own release, and the album earned him a Grammy nomination. People were captivated by his sultry voice and grooves, and his solo success rivals his legacy with the group.

After cutting his teeth in the industry as a songwriter, the singer’s debut album shot him to stardom. Ne-Yo stood out in the music scene with his classy style and signature fedora. In no time, he became known for his hat tricks and Michael Jackson-esque moves. Over the years, his hat style may have changed, but he’s continued to deliver. He’s kept his dance legacy going as a judge on “World of Dance,” and his newer releases show off his continued talent. With an unmistakable image, Ne-Yo is one of R&B’s most iconic dancers.

It’s no secret that K-Pop takes showmanship to the next level, and there’s a long list of idols who are phenomenal dancers. However, Kai stands out from the crowd. With his unique lyrical approach to choreography, he’s known for originating some of the industry’s most recognizable dances. Ever since he was young, he trained in both ballet and jazz, and he channels that grace and strength into all of his performances. Even beyond his group, EXO, Kai has made a name for himself, and his solo performances are some of his most iconic.

Though he wasn’t known for choreographed numbers, Elvis’ dance moves were revolutionary. Reportedly inspired by blues performer Ukulele Ike, the singer became well-known for his gyrating and leg-shaking style. In the beginning, his signature “rubber legs” were partly due to performance nerves, but in no time, his rock and roll movements had taken the country by storm. Even though he was considered a threat to conservative culture at the time, the younger generation couldn’t get enough. Paving the way for modern performers, the King’s signature dancing is still just as iconic to this day.

Taemin is such a talented performer that he earned the nickname the “idol’s idol” due to his influence on the younger K-Pop generations. Many have compared his dancing to Michael Jackson’s, and his unique locking style makes every intricacy look effortless. In 2014, the youngest member of SHINee stunned in his solo debut, and his success as an artist has only grown since then. He even started a phenomenon called “Move Disease” when the dance to his 2017 single went viral. Though he may not have the biggest international audience yet, his all-rounder talent speaks for itself.

The boy band craze of the ‘90s led to an increase of men in pop who could both sing and dance. And while NSYNC was well known for their signature choreography, Justin Timberlake really came into his own as a soloist. Swapping his boy band moves for R&B-infused grooves, he became known for his smooth dancing and suave suits. With a long list of hits under his belt, he notably went on to rock the stage for a second (less controversial) time at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2018. Elevating his catchy music with his performance skills, Timberlake has solidified himself as a standout artist of his generation.

As a young musician with big dreams, Ricky Martin auditioned three times before he was finally added into the Latin boy band Menudo. After gaining popularity with the group’s international success, he decided to take on a solo career. He spent a year studying dance and vocals, working toward his dream of making it. Before long, he set out to make the world “dance and sing in Spanish” for FIFA. With the help of his fusion of Latin styles and his infectious stage presence, he’s done just that. He’s one of history’s highest-selling Latin music artists, and his talent and charisma haven’t faded with age.

After attending performing arts institutions and getting discovered and signed, Derulo’s first release became his first number one hit. Rather than just groove along to his songs, the performer started showing off difficult footwork and choreography. “Ridin’ Solo” really showed the world his signature swagger, while “Talk Dirty” displayed his more sexual side. He’s collaborated with K-Pop idols, been a judge on multiple dance shows, and we can’t forget his feline moves in the “Cats” film. More than just a hit machine, Derulo’s confidence makes him a top tier-performer.

Even in the low-quality videos of Bieber in a local singing contest, his talent is obvious. His online recordings would lead to him being signed, and from his very first single, “Bieber Fever” was born. It only made sense to follow in the steps of his label-owner Usher, and the singer began honing his break dancing and b-boy style. For his later releases, he leaned into the dance pop genre and kicked his choreography into high gear. Nowadays, Bieber leaves most of the choreography to his dancers, but don’t worry, he’ll still break it down in a live performance.

As a group, all of the BTS members have set a brand new caliber for dancing artists. Now, they’ve each found their lanes with unique solo releases, and Jungkook’s high energy performances have taken the world by storm. His first official solo single “Seven” hurtled into mainstream success, topping charts and going viral. His stage presence is unmatched in the modern pop scene, and he grooves through his choreographies with effortless charm and skill. In “Standing Next to You,” his showmanship truly shines, and his collaboration with Usher is one for the books.

Bobby Brown’s dance resumé isn’t just impressive, it’s legendary. After getting his start with R&B group New Edition, the performer shuffled his way into a career of his own. Known as a dance pioneer, he made waves with the fusion genre “new jack swing.” In 1989, the hit music video for his song “Every Little Step” made the “Roger Rabbit” all the rage. The singer even says that he was the person who taught the moonwalk to Michael Jackson. In any case, his high energy movements are infectious, so it’s no wonder Brown is considered such a trendsetter.

You can’t talk about this superstar without bringing up his incredible dance skills. After training in ballet in Minneapolis, Prince went on to bend both gender and genre expectations with his unique movement style. Those who collaborated with him have recalled how hard the singer worked to make his one-of-a-kind choreography seem easy. Months of rehearsal would go into his performances, and on top of that, he was often dancing in heels. His love for the ballet world would continue throughout his career, and his generous contributions to ballet companies are just one part of his enormous legacy.

After growing up in a musical family, his performances as a young kid earned him the nickname “Little Elvis.” More than just a singer or dancer, Mars is a showman. Both his years of practice and the influence of the dance greats are obvious in his movement. He’s known for flowing through grooves and hitting his tricks with ease, and he combines a retro funk style with modern pop. He’s earned praise for both his smash hits and his incredible performances, and his long list of accolades is a testament to his success.

Known as the “Godfather of Soul”, James Brown paved the way for many of the artists on this list. As a kid, he would dance for troops traveling through his hometown, and his passion for performing never waned. He was always theatrical and over the top; inspired by everything from soul vocalists to wrestlers. With stunts, split drops, and constant footwork, the story goes that he could sweat off seven pounds in one go. His legacy includes moves like the boogaloo, the camel walk, and the mashed potato. Revered as one of the dance greats, his influence on modern hip-hop and funk can’t be understated.

Though he’s known for innovating modern R&B, Usher’s talent is timeless. It’s clear he’s taken inspiration from Prince’s showmanship, Michael Jackson's smooth moves, and James Brown’s ability to work a crowd. His well-studied stage presence even earned him the honorary title of “godson of soul” from Brown himself. Pairing skill with pure sexuality, his performances are just as sensual as they are complex. He’s known for his gliding, isolations, and footwork, and his influence raised a generation of pop and R&B soloists. Even today, with a few decades in the industry under his belt, Usher is still continuing to put on amazing shows.

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

Troye Sivan
The Pop Singer Showing off Quirky Choreography

Trevor Jackson
From Dancing on Disney Channel to R&B Music Videos

Jordan Fisher
From Broadway to Hip-Hop, He Can Dance Anything

Hailed as the “King of Pop,” Jackson’s influence on both dance and pop culture is unrivaled. A mesmerizing performer with a limitless range, the artist elevated everything he did, taking us to the next level. Inspired by movie musicals, his storytelling choreography led to his MTV music videos garnering record-breaking audiences. On the surface, you may know his most popular moves, like the moonwalk, anti-gravity lean, or the robot. However, on a deeper level, he also changed the face of dance, including merging West Coast street style with East Coast break dancing. In addition to his long list of his awards, his legacy is honored as the only singer to be inducted into the Dance Hall of Fame.

Which male singer do you think has the most suave moves? Let us know in the comments.