Country swing dancing is known for its hyper, exciting, and pulse-pounding nature. Even if you’re just doing beginner routines, you’ll get a fantastic, extra-fun workout from learning country swing dancing. Once you’ve danced to one of your favorite country hits on a swing dance floor, you’ll never look at that song the same way. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, here are five of the best fast-paced country swing dance songs that you can get down to:
1. “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson ft. Jimmy Buffett
When it’s five o’clock, the party can officially start. Well, that’s the traditional wisdom anyway. In Jackson and Buffet’s eternal words, “It’s five o’clock somewhere.” Use this energy on the dance floor to unlock a fast-paced swing rhythm that will impress everyone in the club around you. You’ll have slower moments to catch your breath as well, which is important when you’re just getting the party started. There’s a beauty to seeing Jackson’s country pipes mixed with Buffett’s down-to-Earth message in such a fast-paced, unique manner. There’s a reason that this song has been a staple of country swing dance clubs for so long, after all. Find a hot date, head down to your local country swing dance club, and you’ll have the night of your life dancing to this mega-hit.
2. “Born to Boogie” by Hank Williams Jr.
Hank Williams Jr. is one of the mainstays of country swing dancing clubs (even in 2023). There’s a rambunctious, cowboy energy to his songs that makes people ready for action. When you’re in a country swing dance club, this action translates to tearing up the dance floor (perhaps after a few cold beers, as Hank would recommend). “Born to Boogie” has a grit to it that’s perfect for couples on a first date. If you want to feel young and rebellious, Jr. knows how to get you there. There’s also a fairly simple skill level needed to perfect the swing steps for “Born to Boogie,” so it’s a song that everyone can love and enjoy at their local country swing dance club. After a night out dancing, you can take notes from a classic film or two and make some money at a nearby casino to make the night truly special.
3. “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” by Kenny Chesney
Despite the clever name, you will need a shirt (and some solid dancing shoes) to boogie down to Kenny Chesney’s “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” at your local dance club. Unless you’re at a private club out in the holler, that is. There’s an infectious nature to this song that’s meant for people who are worn out from their demanding 9-to-5 jobs. If you want to break out of your shell after an exhausting work week, cutting a rug to this classic hit on the dance floor is the exact cure you’ve been looking for. This is another fast-paced swing jam that will work well for beginners and veterans alike. Stick to the simple steps, or add your own flair, to make your dance style truly your own.
4. “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” by Alan Jackson
While the song might advise you to do the opposite, Alan Jackson actually wants you to, in fact, “rock the jukebox.” At your favorite local country swing dance club, you’ll easily get the whole club rockin’ after you put on this jam. If you’re looking for one of the fastest-paced songs on this list, look no further. Those who want to get extra wild with their swing dance steps and moves will adore this song’s rhythm and high beats-per-minute nature, after all. There’s a lovely message of letting go and having fun underlying the lyrics that’s surprisingly deep (if you take the time to really absorb them and let them mellow). After you’ve danced to the song a few times, you’re almost certain to develop a strong emotional connection to it.
5. “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight” by Hank Williams Jr.
Another excellent Hank Williams Jr. mega jam, the title “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight” lets you know that you’re in for a good time (and a rowdy one at that). Those who want to absolutely destroy the dance floor with their stylish moves will love just how wild and quick this song’s rhythm is. If you’re a beginner, this one might be a bit tougher to manage, but veterans can easily show off their stuff with this hit. If you’re a beginner and feel a bit too intimidated, simply sit back, watch the veterans flaunt their stuff, and get inspired to get better and better at country swing dancing in 2023. You’ll be glad you took up such a healthy, fun, and energetic hobby!