Top 10 Songs That Get People Dancing
By Matt Rayner, Singer-Guitarist Based in Colchester, UK
When you're hosting a private party in the UK, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, rooftop celebration, or garden gathering, great music is the key to getting people on their feet. As a UK-based guitarist and event musician, I’ve played at countless private events across the country, and I’ve seen firsthand which songs always fill the dance floor. If you're planning your next party and want guaranteed crowd-pleasers, here are ten songs that work every time, and why.
1. Uptown Funk – Bruno Mars
This track is an instant crowd energizer. Its funky groove and memorable intro get guests of all ages moving within seconds. With its bold rhythm and undeniable energy, it’s a must-have for any party playlist.
2. Shut Up and Dance – Walk the Moon
This song brings pure joy and is especially effective with younger guests. Its beat is infectious, the lyrics are easy to sing along with, and it works beautifully as a live acoustic singalong moment.
3. I Wanna Dance with Somebody – Whitney Houston
This timeless hit bridges generations. From parents to teens, everyone seems to know the words and feel the energy. It never fails to get people on the floor smiling and belting out the chorus.
4. September – Earth, Wind & Fire
Funky, fun, and familiar. This one appeals across generations and adds instant soul to your party. Whether performed live or played through a DJ setup, it brings unmatched vibe and nostalgia.
5. Mr. Brightside – The Killers
UK crowds especially love this one for its emotional punch and high-energy delivery. It’s one of those songs where guests lose their voices singing along, and that’s always a good sign.
6. Crazy in Love – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
The opening beat is iconic. Whether it’s the original or a groovy acoustic version, this track gets attention fast and builds hype for the rest of the night.
7. Hey Ya! – Outkast
This quirky classic is one of the most effective dance starters out there. It’s quick, catchy, and universally loved for its upbeat weirdness.
8. You Make My Dreams – Hall & Oates
This one brings a sense of joy and nostalgia. It’s light, feel-good, and perfect for all-ages events. It’s one of those songs where people can’t help but smile as they move.
9. Superstition – Stevie Wonder
Full of groove and musicality, this is a great choice if your guests appreciate funk and soul. It gets toes tapping and keeps things classy without sacrificing energy.
10. Levitating – Dua Lipa
Modern and fresh, this one’s especially popular with younger guests. It brings a fun energy and works well whether played live or dropped into a DJ mix.
Tips for Picking the Right Dance Songs for Your Crowd
If your crowd includes older guests, lean into Motown, ‘80s, and classic soul. If you’ve got a younger group, pop/EDM hybrids and viral hits tend to work well. For mixed-age parties, upbeat throwbacks combined with a few modern favourites usually create the perfect balance. If you're hiring a live musician, make sure they’re experienced in adapting tempo and vibe mid-song to keep the dance floor alive.
When you book entertainment that knows how to read the room and adapt on the fly, your guests will stay engaged from start to finish. As a UK-based guitarist and event musician, I specialise in creating customised setlists that keep people dancing and energy levels high. If you're planning a private event and want to make sure your dance floor stays packed, let’s talk about how we can make your music unforgettable.