Why I Loved this Playlist

By Janet Martin
Contributing Author
Photos by Jay Kuntz
And why you will, too!

If you’re looking to refresh your dance playlist, I highly recommend taking a cue from a recent dance I attended in Tallahassee, Florida. I walked away inspired—not just by the dancers or the venue, but by the music itself. The February 2025 playlist from Chapter 6010 was one of the best-curated mixes I’ve heard in a long time, and here’s why it stood out.

 

It Balanced Classic Ballroom with Fresh, Youthful Vibes

You know a playlist is special when it honors ballroom standards without getting stuck in the past. I was thrilled to hear timeless crowd-pleasers like:

  • “Let’s Never Stop Falling in Love” – a dreamy tango by Jeff Steinberg
  • “Stupid Cupid” by Connie Francis – always a fun Swing hit
  • “Lipstick, Powder & Paint” – a classic jive-ready tune by Shakin’ Stevens

However, what really excited me was how they seamlessly mixed in songs from younger artists. Hearing “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus (Cha Cha) or “Salt” by Ava Max (Hustle) on a ballroom floor was such a refreshing surprise. These modern beats didn’t feel out of place—they felt inviting.

It Had Something for Every Style

Whether you love to glide in a Foxtrot or sizzle in a Samba, this playlist had it all. A few favorites:

  • “Addicted to You” by Shakira – a perfect Merengue
  • “Que El Ritmo No Pare” – full of Samba energy
  • “Undercover Agent for the Blues” by Tony Joe White – cool and laid-back for West Coast Swing
  • “U Gurl” by Walker Hayes – a cheeky West Coast favorite

Every dance style felt included and energized by the thoughtful music selections.

It Was Multi-Generational and Inclusive

One of the best parts? Watching dancers of all ages get excited about the music. From Nora Jones’s “Come Away With Me” (Waltz) to Taylor Swift’s “Lover” (Bolero), there was a sense of connection across generations. You could feel the room light up every time a new song began—and people weren’t just dancing, they were singing along and smiling.

It Inspired Me to Refresh My Own Playlist

This experience reminded me just how powerful a well-crafted playlist can be. It’s not just about filling time between dances—it sets the tone for the entire event. If we want to attract younger dancers while keeping our loyal members engaged, this type of music mix is the way forward.

If you’re looking to boost attendance, energy, and connection, consider trying this type of playlist.

Trust me—your dance floor will thank you.

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