45 Best 2000s Dance Songs
Dancing is almost as ingrained into human society as the music itself, and there's no denying that the 2000s was a great decade for those who loved to get their groove on.
Here are the best 2000s dance songs that'll simultaneously pump you up and make you feel nostalgic.
Contents
1. “Hot In Herre” By Nelly
Song Year: 2002
“Hot In Herre” is an incredibly addictive song to listen to and dance to. For one, it has a distinct and groovy beat that makes it hard to stay still.
And two, the lyrics are highly entertaining, suggesting that taking off your clothes is the best way to cool down when you've gotten hot from dancing at a crowded club or party. The idea is comical enough to make you and your friends laugh while having fun on the dance floor.
2. “Yeah!” By Usher, featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris
Song Year: 2004
“Yeah!” was a hit that took dance floors across America by storm. It was inescapable – you couldn't go to a club or party without hearing it at least once.
The catchy beat and easy-to-follow lyrics make it a great song to dance to, even if you're not the best dancer. And who doesn't love to feel like a sexy superstar when singing along to Usher's smooth lyrics?
3. “Hips Don't Lie” By Shakira, featuring Wyclef Jean
Song Year: 2005
Shakira's “Hips Don't Lie” was another viral hit that is still so much fun to shake your hips to, even until today.
The Latin instrumentals and infectious beat make it impossible to stay still when this song comes on.
And Shakira's lyrics about her hips not being able to lie – meaning she's a great dancer – are just as empowering as they are fun.
4. “Crazy in Love” By Beyoncé, featuring Jay-Z
Song Year: 2003
“Crazy In Love” is an iconic song that solidified Beyonce's transition from Destiny's Child to a solo artist and set up the rest of her fiery career.
This song's beats, “uh ohs,” and passionate vocals make everyone listening want to shake, shimmy, and power walk around the dance floor. Plus, Jay-Z's rap verse adds the cherry on top.
5. “Low” By Flo Rida featuring T-Pain
Song Year: 2008
The heavy bass, semi-comical lyrics, and irresistibly repetitive lyrics of Flo Rida's “Low” make for an excellent, energetic time.
This is the kind of song you turn up as loud as possible and dance your heart out to – no matter how good or bad of a dancer you are.
6. “Umbrella” By Rihanna, featuring Jay-Z
Song Year: 2007
“Umbrella” is one of Rihanna's most popular songs from her entire career. It's less of a club or party song because the beat is slower-paced than other songs on this list.
However, the powerful and catchy lyrics and Rihanna's sensual vocals make up for that, resulting in a timeless pop hit.
7. “Sexy Back” By Justin Timberlake, featuring Timbaland
Song Year: 2006
The instrumentals and vocals of this Justin Timberlake are just as sexy as the title implies.
This song gets people on the dance floor because it is the perfect balance of sultry and funky.
You don't need to take yourself all too seriously when dancing to it, making it all the more fun and energizing.
8. “Hey Ya!” By Outkast
Song Year: 2003
The lyrics of “Hey Ya!” are not as pleasant and positive as one might assume, given how chipper and fun the song sounds.
However, this never stopped people from getting up and dancing in pure glee when this song came on, especially towards the end when Andre 3000 suggests that everyone shake their body, similar to how one might shake a polaroid photo.
9. “Temperature” By Sean Paul
Song Year: 2005
Reggaeton is always an excellent genre choice for people looking to break a sweat on the dance floor, and Sean Paul's “Temperature” can surely get the job done.
This song is high-energy and perfect for those who love to move their bodies when they dance. The lyrics are pretty difficult to follow, but once it's on, you'll be too busy moving around to care anyways!
10. “My Humps” By Black Eyed Peas
Song Year: 2005
The Black Eyed Peas were known for their riveting party hits throughout the 2000s, but “My Humps” stood out among the rest for its risqué lyrics and enticing, funky beat.
This song is all about flaunting what you've got, and dancing to it is the perfect way to do just that. It's fun, flirty, comical, and sexy all at once.
11. “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” By Soulja Boy
Song Year: 2007
There have been and continue to be plenty of songs that ask listeners to perform a certain dance move, but Soulja Boy's “Crank That” stood out for two main reasons.
The first reason is that there was not just one movement involved, such as the “Stanky Leg,” but a series of moves to remember, making it slightly similar to choreographed line dance.
The second reason is that the dance was named after the artist himself, which was a bold, confident choice.
12. “Candy Shop” By 50 Cent, featuring Olivia
Song Year: 2005
From the very start of this song, that bass takes control of your emotions, making it extremely difficult to stop yourself from dropping it low – or at least trying to.
The lyrics are pretty sensual and explicit, but that doesn't take away from how fun and catchy the song is.
The song's overall tone makes it pretty clear that 50 Cent is only interested in one thing, but he sure knows how to have a good time doing it.
13. “Gasolina” By Daddy Yankee
Song Year: 2004
The song “Gasolina” is arguably responsible for bringing reggaeton to the mainstream, and it definitely deserves all the hype.
Even if you don't understand Spanish, the high-energy beat and Daddy Yankee's commanding vocals will still get you moving.
14. “Drop It Like It's Hot” By Snoop Dogg, featuring Pharrell Williams
Song Year: 2004
The best aspect of “Drop It Like It's Hot” is the bass-heavy beat, which seems simple but is more intricate than they seem once you listen closely.
The smooth instrumentals coupled with Snoop and Pharrell's smooth raps and vocals made this song a hit that people still play at parties. It simply never gets old.
15. “Fergalicious” By Fergie, featuring will.i.am
Song Year: 2006
“Fergalicious” is the perfect choice for anyone who loves to get down and dirty on the dance floor and feel confident when doing so.
Fergie's sultry vocals and the suggestive lyrics make it pretty clear what this song is all about, and the bouncy beat will make you want to move your body in all the right ways.
16. “Shots” By LMFAO, featuring Lil Jon
Song Year: 2009
LMFAO is known for their crazy party hits that unashamedly promote getting wild, going nuts, and not holding back.
“Shots” takes it to the next level in terms of lyrics, beats, and overall excitement, especially with the help of Lil Jon screaming ad-libs throughout the background.
17. “Toxic” By Britney Spears
Song Year: 2003
Britney Spears has a long list of iconic hits, but “Toxic” stands out as one of the best dance hits of her entire career.
The instrumentals are as catchy, unique, and seductive as Britney's voice, which the world was very familiar with by 2003.
18. “Get Low” By Lil Jon and The East Side Boyz, featuring Ying Yang Twins
Song Year: 2002
“Get Low” is the type of song that will make people jump from their seats from the first 2 seconds it's playing.
This song has explicit and mature lyrics that are not suitable for younger listeners but is incredibly fun to dance to, namely if you love moving your hips and dropping down low.
The instrumentals are heavy and exciting, with powerful bass and even loud whistle sounds in the back, making it hard not to get hyped up when it comes on.
19. “Run It” By Chris Brown, featuring Juelz Santana
Song Year: 2005
Juelz Santana kicks the song off with a quick and dirty rap, but Chris Brown's relatively high-pitched yet punchy vocals keep people listening, and the bass-heavy beat gets people dancing.
The chorus is the best part, as Chris Brown's catchy “run it” ad-libs make the song impossible to get out of your head in the best way.
20. “Promiscuous” By Nelly Furtado, featuring Timbaland
Song Year: 2006
If “Promiscuous” came out today, it would fit right in because the instrumentals are as catchy, fun, and fresh as modern-day pop songs.
But the fact that this song came out in 2006 makes it even more impressive, as it was way ahead of its time.
“Promiscuous” is the perfect song to get anyone in the mood, regardless of what they think about the somewhat suggestive lyrics.
21. “Lose Control” By Missy Elliot, featuring Ciara and Fatman Snoop
Song Year: 2005
Speaking of instrumentals that were way ahead of their time, “Lose Control” has a beat that is more than modern – it's timeless.
It simply will never get old because the winding, hypnotic mix of sounds is so perfect that it can be enjoyed by anyone, no matter what their taste in music is.
22. “Buttons” By Pussycat Dolls
Song Year: 2005
“Buttons” is a suggestive hit by the Pussycat Dolls that is fun to dance around to, especially if you are looking for a confidence boost.
The lyrics are naughty but not too explicit, making it a perfect choice for anyone who wants to feel sexy without getting too raunchy.
23. “Just Dance” By Lady Gaga, featuring Colby O'Donis
Song Year: 2008
The first song on this list by the one and only Lady Gaga, “Just Dance,” is an infectious club anthem that makes people want to, well, just dance.
The beat is catchy and fun, with a mix of synthesizers and drums that make it perfect for dancing.
The lyrics are simple but effective, especially the chorus, as it repeats the title phrase “just dance.”
24. “I Gotta Feeling” By Black Eyed Peas
Song Year: 2009
This song needs no introduction, as it is one of the most popular songs of all time, and for a good reason.
“I Gotta Feeling” is the perfect song to get anyone out of their funk and ready to have a good time.
The instrumentals are happy and upbeat, with a mix of drums, guitars, and synthesizers that make you feel good no matter what.
The lyrics are also feel-good, as they talk about living in the present, being optimistic about what's to come, and ultimately having a terrific, memorable night.
25. “Hung Up” By Madonna
Song Year: 2005
Madonna has decades of popular dance hits, and “Hung Up” was one of the best in the 2000s.
The song is catchy, entertaining, and groovy, with a mix of disco and electronica that will make the whole party want to dance all night long.
26. “One More Time” By Daft Punk
Song Year: 2000
Daft Punk, a French electronic music duo, released “One More Time” in 2000, much to the pleasure and enjoyment of club-goers and electronic music fans everywhere.
The song is relatively long, but it feels much shorter because it is engaging, funky, and exciting.
Plus, songs that explicitly talk about dancing and celebration are the best for doing just that – dancing and celebrating!
27. “Bulletproof” By La Roux
Song Year: 2009
There's something about La Roux's striking and convicting voice that makes “Bulletproof” an addicting song to this day, even though it was released in 2009.
The lyrics are about standing up for oneself and not letting someone take advantage of you. You can feel empowered, confident, and strong as you dance to this hit track.
28. “The Sweet Escape” By Gwen Stefani
Song Year: 2006
“The Sweet Escape” is almost just as fun to sing along to as it is to dance to, primarily due to Gwen Stefani's catchy and sugary-sweet voice.
The sound is pleasant, and the lyrics are somewhat optimistic, despite the subject matter being about a complicated relationship.
29. “Move, Shake, Drop” By Pitbull, featuring Flo Rida
Song Year: 2009
This song is high-energy and perfect for dancing, no matter what your skill level is.
This is especially true because it's one of those interactive dance songs that tell you what to do and when. It's hard not to move, shake, and drop when Pitbull sings those lyrics in the chorus.
30 “Goodies” By Ciara, featuring Petey Pablo
Song Year: 2004
“Goodies” is another incredibly recognizable dance hit from the 2000s that makes you want to move your body every time you hear it.
Ciara has high vocals that compliment the high-pitched instrumental that the song is known for. It's no wonder that this song is a classic, as it has all the right elements for a dance track.
31. “Dirrty” By Christina Aguilera, featuring Redman
Song Year: 2002
“Dirrty” is one of the best dance songs for the club because it encourages a wild, carefree, and shameless attitude.
Christina Aguilera's voice is sultry and seductive, while the instrumentals are rough and aggressive. This song is the perfect choice to play when you want to inspire fun chaos.
32. “Ride With Me” By Nelly
Song Year: 2000
Right at the beginning of the 2000s, Nelly released “Ride With Me,” which helped rap continue to gain mainstream popularity.
This is not the song for high-energy dancing but is the perfect song to play for daytime hangouts and backyard barbecues when you want people to be able to casually dance or nod their heads along.
33. “Evacuate The Dancefloor” By Cascada
Song Year: 2009
Another party and club classic is “Evacuate The Dancefloor” by Cascada.
At first, it might seem like evacuating the dance floor is the opposite of what you want to do during a dance song, but the idea is that the floor is getting so “hot” and exciting because of the riveting music and fiery dance moves.
The lyrics are easy to sing along to, and when you're singing about how the beat is infectious, it makes you realize just how true that is!
34. “Bump, Bump, Bump” By B2K, featuring Diddy
Song Year: 2002
If you want a purely fun and light-hearted song, then “Bump, Bump, Bump” is the track for you.
The lyrics are about dancing and flirting with someone you're attracted to, and the music video features some impressive dance moves.
It's the perfect song to help you get rid of any stress or worries and have a good time.
35. “Snap Yo Fingers” By Lil Jon, E-40, and Sean Paul (of Youngbloodz)
Song Year: 2006
Whether it's the relevant snapping sound in the background or Lil Jon yelling the command, it's nearly impossible not to dance – or at least snap – to this dance hit.
The beat is so catchy, and the lyrics are incredibly fun. This is a highly energetic song that'll pump you up in a heartbeat.
36. “Tell Me When To Go” By E-40
Song Year: 2006
2006 was clearly a great year for E-40 because not only was he on the hip hop hit mentioned above, but he also released “Tell Me When To Go,” a true hyphy jam inspired by where he's from in San Francisco, a.k.a. “The Bay” area.
The heavy bass and hyped-up lyrics prompt listeners to lose control, have fun, and “go dumb.”
37. “Get The Party Started” By P!nk
Song Year: 2001
As the title suggests, “Get The Party Started” is an ideal song to play when you want to get a party started – or to keep it going!
This song is all about having a good time, being yourself, and enjoying the moment.
P!nk has received significant recognition for her powerful, serious songs, but we can't forget about her party hits like this one!
38. “Work It” By Missy Elliot
Song Year: 2002
The aforementioned” Lose Control” was only one of Missy Elliot's many amazing dance hits in the 2000s, and “Work It” was an even more popular one.
Missy is not only a talented rapper, but she's also an incredible dancer. On top of all that, she is hilarious and able to add comedy to her music effortlessly.
39. “Right Thurr” By Chingy
Song Year: 2003
Chingy's “Right Thurr” was another one of those songs that were inescapable in the early 2000s.
It was pretty much guaranteed to be played at any party or club you went to, and for good reasons – it's catchy, fun, and easy to dance to.
Some people see the lyrics as pretty nonsensical, but that doesn't make them any less enjoyable.
40. “Bye Bye Bye” By NSYNC
Song Year: 2000
Before Justin Timberlake took off on his solo career, he was a member of one of the most popular boy bands of all time, NSYNC.
They had a ton of great hits, and “Bye Bye Bye” was one of the greatest to dance to, especially due to the simple dance move that went along with that title line.
41. “Pop, Lock and Drop It” By Huey
Song Year: 2006
One might assume that songs titled with dance commands would have gotten old over the 2000s, but that wasn't the case at all.
In 2006, Huey released “Pop, Lock, and Drop It,” which became an immediate success because of its stirring, bass-heavy beat and relatively simple and sexy corresponding dance move.
42. “Walk It Out” By Unk
Song Year: 2006
Another fun “dance command song” in 2006 was “Walk It Out” by Huey. Some people found this dance a little more challenging to pick up, but once you got it, it was pretty addicting.
Given its popularity, “Walk It Out” inspired several remixes and freestyles, including one by the legend Andre 3000.
43. “Lean With It, Rock With It” By Dem Franchize Boyz
Song Year: 2006
We can't talk about dance commands of 2006 without mentioning “Lean WIth It, Rock With It.”
It was similarly addictive and fun to dance to, especially with a group of friends.
It incorporated other related dance moves at that time as well, such as “snap your fingers,” which is a similar move to the title dance, and “lean back,” which Fat Joe popularized.
44. “It’s Going Down” By Yung Joc
Song Year: 2006
Yung Joc came into the mainstream with “It's Going Down,” and shortly thereafter, it seemed like everyone was making the motorcycle move associated with the chorus.
The repetitive beat is snappy and captivating, so it's no surprise that people of all ages and walks of life couldn't resist this hit.
45. “Where The Party At” By Jagged Edge featuring Nelly
Song Year: 2001
Jagged Edge's “Where The Party At” was a song that was simultaneously relatable and inspirational.
If you were a party goer in the 2000s, it's likely that you'd call up a friend and ask, “Hey, where's the party?”
But what made it a little less relatable was the lyrics about partying with wealth and luxury.
However, some people find these lyrics inspirational, motivating them to work hard and get what they want out of life.
Top 2000s Dance Songs, Final Word
Whether you were getting down at a club or just busting a move in your bedroom, there were plenty of great songs to choose from throughout the 2000s.
The best 2000s dance songs are the ones that have become true classics. You can still hear many of these songs playing at clubs, bars, and parties across the country.
Want to know what dance music was like before the 2000s though? We’ve made lists of 1950s dance music, 1960s dance music, 1970s dance music, and 1990s dance music. Enjoy!
We hope you have fun dancing to some of these hits again, or perhaps for the first time!
