Hip hop dance classes have surged in popularity, offering a dynamic and expressive outlet for students of all ages. However, instructors often face the challenge of curating playlists filled with Hip Hop Music Songs that are both energetic and age-appropriate. With mainstream hip hop frequently featuring mature themes, profanity, and suggestive content, finding suitable tracks for younger dancers can feel like navigating a minefield. Fortunately, discovering clean and engaging hip hop music songs for your classes is entirely achievable with the right approach.
Why Choose Age-Appropriate Hip Hop Music for Dance?
Selecting appropriate hip hop music songs is crucial for creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. For younger students, exposure to mature themes can be unsuitable and detract from the joy of dance. Even for older teens, many instructors prefer to keep the focus on the artistry and athleticism of hip hop, rather than lyrical content that may be distracting or inappropriate. Age-appropriate choices ensure that the music enhances the dance experience without compromising on values or comfort levels. It allows students to connect with the rhythm and movement authentically, free from lyrical distractions or potentially offensive content.
Unlocking the Vault: Exploring Sources for Clean Hip Hop Music Songs
Discovering clean hip hop music songs doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or energy. Here are effective strategies to build a playlist that will inspire your students and keep the class moving:
Dive into the “Old School” Hip Hop Era
Young hip hop dancers energetically performing a routine.
While it might be surprising to some, revisiting “old school” hip hop can be a goldmine for age-appropriate tracks. Many songs from the late 80s and 90s, now considered classics, offer infectious beats and positive vibes without explicit lyrics. Artists like MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice, and even early Black Eyed Peas (before their later, more mature content) provide a nostalgic yet energetic backdrop for hip hop classes. Aaron Carter’s “Shake It” and Michael Jackson’s “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” are also fantastic examples of tunes from this era that remain fun and clean. Always double-check lyrics, even with older songs, but this era offers a strong starting point for building your playlist.
Spotlight on Young and Tween Hip Hop Artists
The music industry is home to talented young artists who create hip hop music songs specifically tailored for younger audiences. These artists, often emerging from platforms like Disney or Nickelodeon, understand the need for clean lyrics and positive messages. Lil’ Romeo and Willow Smith are prime examples, offering catchy tunes without compromising on age-appropriateness. Soundtracks from Disney shows like “A.N.T. Farm” (China Anne McClain) and “Victorious” also frequently feature upbeat and clean hip hop-inspired tracks. Lil’ Mama’s “Lip Gloss” and Timbaland’s collaboration with Miley Cyrus, “We Belong to the Music,” are further examples of songs from younger artists that fit the bill perfectly.
Harness the Power of Movie Soundtracks
A group of dancers in motion, performing a hip hop routine inspired by a dance movie.
Dance movies are a treasure trove of high-energy, clean hip hop music songs. Soundtracks from films like the “Step Up” franchise (including “Step Up,” “Step Up 2 the Streets,” “Step Up 3D,” and “Step Up Revolution”) and “Honey 2” are packed with dance-ready tracks. “You Got Served” also offers gems like “Take It to the Floor.” Beyond dedicated dance movies, soundtracks from films like “Bratz” and even unexpected sources can yield great results. Basement Jaxx’s “Do Your Thing,” featured in “Bratz,” is a vibrant and clean option. Exploring movie soundtracks expands your options considerably and often provides music specifically designed for dance sequences.
Explore Christian Hip Hop for Uplifting Beats
Christian hip hop is a vibrant genre offering a wealth of music with positive messages and strong rhythms, perfect for dance classes. Artists in this genre prioritize clean lyrics and uplifting themes while maintaining the energy and beat that defines hip hop music songs. Websites like holyhiphop.com are excellent resources for discovering Christian hip hop artists. Groups like Group 1 Crew, Grits, KJ-52, and Lecrae are well-known names in this genre, offering tracks like Group 1 Crew’s “Movin’,” Grits’ “Turn It Up,” and KJ-52’s “Brand New Day.” Krystal Meyers’ “Make Some Noise” and Group 1 Crew’s “Let It Roll” are additional examples of Christian hip hop tracks that are both clean and energetic.
The Versatility of Instrumental Hip Hop Tracks
Instrumental hip hop music songs offer a foolproof way to avoid any lyrical content concerns altogether. Focusing on the beat and rhythm allows dancers to fully immerse themselves in the movement without any potential lyrical distractions. Instrumental tracks can range from drumline-inspired beats to karaoke versions of popular songs (without the vocals). Inspired by groups like the League of Extraordinary Dancers (LXD), consider blending classical music elements with hip hop beats for a unique and sophisticated sound. Artists like deadmau5, Black Violin, and Nuttin’ But Stringz offer instrumental tracks that are both dynamic and appropriate. Avicii’s “Levels” (instrumental version or the original, recognizing Flo Rida sampled it) and Black Violin’s “Dirty Orchestra” and “Ghosts N Stuff” are great examples. Karaoke versions, like “Look At Me Now (Karaoke),” can also provide familiar melodies in an instrumental format.
Bonus Beats: Extra Fun and Clean Hip Hop Inspired Songs
Beyond the main categories, some unexpected tracks can be fantastic additions to your age-appropriate hip hop playlist. Songs like “Hokey Pokey” by The Puppies, “Everybody Jam Along” by Jammy Jams, and even Disney tunes like “Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf” and “Super Cali (BoiOB Version)” from Disney Mania 4 can inject fun and familiarity. “HipHop-O-Potamus” by MeeWee offers a playful, kid-friendly hip hop vibe. The Chipettes (though perhaps in moderation!) and Jump5’s “Throw Your Hands Up” provide further options for upbeat, clean music.
Finding the right hip hop music songs for age-appropriate dance classes requires a bit of exploration, but the rewards are significant. By utilizing these strategies and exploring diverse sources, you can create playlists that are both inspiring and suitable for your students, ensuring a fun, energetic, and positive hip hop dance experience for everyone. Hip hop you don’t stop!
