uHollywood

Dancing is my favorite way to exercise. When I decided to come up with a list of favorite dancing songs, choosing the top ten was difficult. Each time I thought the list was complete, I remembered another great one, or the radio would play one that made me state to myself “oh yeah, what about that one?” I could easily come up with a top 50 list, or top 100 even, if I were writing a book. It is usually not just the beat and the tune that make the song special. The lyrics also have meaning, andTalk to me in some way. All of the songs here have at least one video version. Some can only be found on Youtube. With the exception of the first song, there’s no ranking here. They all share equal importance.

1. Word Up by Korn

“Yo pretty ladies around the world . . .wave your hands in the air like you do not care, glide by the people as theybegin to look and stare. Do your dance, do your dance, do your dance quick mom, now come on baby tell me what is the word? Word up, everybody say…” What can I say? They’re singing to me, about me, with a beat and an attitude. I learn about new music through my children, and this song was on a CD belonging to my son. I was never a Korn fan until I heard “Word Up” for the first time a few years ago. It got me and my boys moving, and I wanted to hear it over and over. It is, in my opinion, hands down, the greatest dancing song ever.

2. Maria Maria by Santana, featuring The Wraith.

“Ahora vengo mama chula mama chula Ahora vengo mama chula (east coast)” I hear this song and feel like I am in a smoke-filled club. It is slow and sensual, sweaty and sexy, like so many Santana songs. Feel your way through this music, and see what you can get your hips to do.

3. Oyeme by Enrique Iglesias

“Oyeme . . . touch you here, I’ll touch you there . . . till the night becomes the day . . . oyeme oyeme . . .” Enrique has so many great dance tunes, and this is just one of my favorites. With a hard, primal beat, this song is a perfect addition to a great cardio workout.

4. Hot Summer Night (Took the Words Right Out of my Mouth) by Meatloaf

“When I listen to your heart I hear the whole world turning . . . and then you took the words right out of my mouth, oh it must have been while you were kissing me . . .” This musical masterpiece showcases Meatloaf’s talent and fondness for high drama. I have never heard anything like it. The song just rocks! Go on Youtube and see the video. The Meat is seductive, he’ll pull you right in. He