Are you making a party playlist and need some ideas?
You’ve come to the right place!
In today’s article, we’re bringing the best party songs of all time.
From 70s disco tunes to modern pop hits, the list has a little bit of everything.
So, turn the volume up and get the party started!
1. “Le Freak” by Chic
This song seems like a good place to start – it’s one of the legendary party anthems.
“Le Freak” was released in 1978, and it was the band’s first Billboard Hot 100 and R&B number-one hit song.
And in 2018, the song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress.
They described it as being “culturally, historically, or artistically significant.”
One, two
Ah, freak out!
2. “Like A Prayer” by Madonna
When thinking about the songs that make you want to dance, Madonna is one of the first names that comes to mind.
And it’s hard to pick only one song – she went through many different phases and released numerous banger songs.
But “Like A Prayer” is a party classic.
It has a liberating and captivating atmosphere that allows you to focus only on your dance moves.
3. “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees
Speaking of party classics, “Stayin’ Alive” is arguably one of the most popular party songs.
It was written and recorded in 1977, and it has been an essential part of every party and wedding playlist ever since.
The song was used in the film ‘Saturday Night Fever’ starring John Travolta.
And it became the group’s signature song.
It was also placed on the list of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
4. “Jump Around” by House Of Pain
When it comes to hip hop party songs, “Jump Around” is on the very top.
The moment that squeal kicks in, you can’t resist moving your body.
This popular 90s tune was produced by DJ Muggs of the hip hop group Cypress Hill, who also covered the song.
“Jump Around” was a huge hit when it came out, and it remains one of the party favorites.
Pack it up, pack it in, let me begin…
5. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams released “Happy” in 2013 as a part of the ‘Despicable Me 2’ soundtrack.
This catchy party song with an ultimate feel-good vibe instantly became a universal hit.
In fact, the song got everyone dancing during that summer – people around the world were filming the video of Pharrell’s infectious dance routine.
The original music video was filmed at the train station in Los Angeles.
6. “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira
“Hips Don’t Lie” is one of Shakira’s greatest hits.
The song was produced by Shakira and Haitian star Wyclef Jean.
It was first released in 2006, and it became one of the best-selling singles of all time.
“Hips Don’t Lie” is all about catchy Latin vibes, infectious reggaeton elements, and Shakira’s iconic belly dance.
It’s definitely one of the timeless pop hits that will probably be popular among future generations as well.
7. “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” by Beyonce
Beyonce is another living superstar whose music will probably be well-known to future generations.
And her 2008 hit “Single Ladies” is considered one of the top party songs.
The song is fast-paced and catchy, and if you’re a single lady, it will most likely make you put your hands in the air.
8. “Hey Ya!” by Outkast
Without a doubt, “Hey Ya!” is one of the best dance party songs.
There’s something incredibly catchy and captivating about it – Andre 3000 has obviously found a formula for a perfect party song.
“Hey Ya!” is also widely regarded as one of the best songs of the 2000s.
In fact, in 2021, Rolling Stone ranked the song at number 10 on their list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture!
9. “Electric Boogie” by Marcia Griffiths
“Electric Boogie” by Marcia Griffits is often described as one of the best classic party songs.
The song was originally recorded in 1976 with Bunny Wailer, and Marcia Griffits recorded a cover version in the 80s.
The song became a popular party choice for all kinds of celebrations in the 90s.
And the “electric boogaloo” line dance that placed it among the top party songs of all time.
10. “In Da Club” by 50 Cent
If you’re searching for the best club songs of the early 2000s, this one’s for you.
50 Cent’s 2003 hit is one of the banger songs that is familiar to every 90s kid.
Besides becoming a favorite party hit, “In Da Club” also received praise from music critics.
One of the websites called the song a “guaranteed party starter”, and we absolutely agree.
11. “We Found Love” by Rihanna
Rihanna released numerous party hits.
But “We Found Love” is one of those hype party songs that will get everyone on their feet, especially younger generations.
It’s upbeat and energetic, and it has a catchy beat.
The lyrics revolve around a couple who are in love but they aren’t necessarily good for each other.
So it’s not a typical happy love song, but that gives it a more interesting atmosphere.
12. “SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake
“SexyBack” is one of Justin Timberlake’s biggest hits.
Justin released it in 2006, and it became his first number-one single.
He also won a Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Recording.
It seems like his ‘experiment’ turned out well – Timberlake said he wanted to get that ‘raw energy’ and sound present in David Bowie’s and Prince’s music.
13. “Thank You” by Sly & The Family Stone
“Thank You” by Sly & The Family Stone is another beloved party classic.
It’s a funky disco anthem released in 1969.
The song definitely had a lot of influence on the 70s dance scene.
And it remains one of the best fun party songs.
14. “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cindy Lauper
Every essential party playlist includes “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.”
The song was Cindy Lauper’s breakthrough hit, and it was eventually proclaimed a feminist anthem.
The song has uplifting pop vibes though, and it doesn’t sound like a typical protest song.
However, Lauper’s message helped set a template for future singers who tackle women’s rights.
In a way, the song was engineered to be an anthem of women’s sexual freedom – so in a way, it’s a party song with a message.
15. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without ABBA.
And “Dancing Queen” is arguably one of the most iconic party songs.
It talks about a visit to a disco club, and it expresses the joy of dancing and enjoying yourself.
It was released in 1976, and it reached number 1 in numerous countries.
In 2015, the song was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
16. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
“Uptown Funk” is one of those songs that make you want to dance the moment you hear it.
Mark Ronson is no stranger to fun dance songs, and along with Bruno Mars, the popularity of the song was imminent.
“Uptown Funk” is a perfect blend of boogie, disco-pop, soul, and funk.
It’s an ode to 80s funk music, and it’s the most successful single of Ronson and Mars to date.
17. “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk
Daft Punk’s iconic dance track “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” has an unmatched vibe.
The song is built around a keyboard riff sampled from the 1979 track “Cola Bottle Baby” by Edwin Birdsong.
But Daft Punk’s hit also features vocoded vocals and the duo’s recognizable electronic sound.
Released in 2001, the song had a lot of influence on the 2000s electronic music scene.
18. “Let’s Get It Started” by The Black Eyed Peas
You also need to add “Let’s Get It Started” to your party playlist.
It’s a beloved tune that will get everyone dancing.
The song was supposed to be called “Let’s Get Retarded”, but they decided to go for a less offensive title after all.
19. “Low” by Flo Rida ft. T-Pain
Are you ready to hit the floor with this smash hit?
If you were a teen in the 2000s, you probably remember the hype around Step Up movies.
And “Low” was released as a part of the ‘Step Up 2: The Streets’ movie soundtrack.
It’s a catchy hip hop tune that inspired many kids to take a hip hop dancing class.
20. “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan
“This Is How We Do It” was released as Montell Jordan’s debut single.
And it became an absolute party hit in the 90s.
The song is considered a representative of the hip hop soul style popular at the time.
And it definitely reflects the urban styles and contemporary soul genre of that era.
21. “Y.M.C.A.” by Village People
“Y.M.C.A.” by Village People is often regarded as one of the greatest party songs of all time.
And if you’re still not bored of it, you can add it to your celebration playlist.
One thing is for sure: “Y.M.C.A.” seems to be popular even after more than 40 years of its original release.
Besides being an enduring party anthem, the song is a popular tune at sporting events and a favorite karaoke choice.
22. “Pump Up The Jam” by Technotronic
“Pump Up The Jam” is another worldwide hit that’s a part of every essential party music playlist.
The song was certified triple platinum, and it topped the charts in many countries.
Technotronic’s life-changing hit is a blend of hip hop and deep house, and that wasn’t very usual at the time.
“Pump Up The Jam” certainly changed what was considered popular dance music in the 80’s.
23. “Take On Me” by A-ha
“Take On Me” is one of the most popular 80s hits.
In fact, many would agree that it is one of the best pop songs ever made.
Apart from being incredibly catchy, the group also released a famous video with animated sketches.
It was filmed in 1985 at Kim’s Café (now named Savoy Café) in London.
24. “TiK ToK” by Kesha
“Tik Tok” by Kesha is also one of the good party songs because it’s upbeat, catchy, and carefree.
And it’s almost unbelievable that it was released more than 10 years ago.
It was released as Kesha’s debut single, and it spent nine weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100.
And the party won’t start till I walk in…
25. “About Damn Time” by Lizzo
“About Damn Time” maybe didn’t have a chance to pass the test of time, but we’re sure it will be a favorite dance hit for many years to come.
The song has been a staple of dance Tik Toks, and it has been ruling the radio stations since its release.
Lyrically, it’s about transformation, moving forward, and finding joy.
26. “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
And the same goes for Dua Lipa.
The English singer released her breakthrough hit “Be The One” in 2015, but she let us all know that she will be here for a while.
Her 2020 pop hit “Don’t Start Now” is one of the top party songs and her highest-charting single.
It’s often classified as a nu-disco song, and it was reportedly inspired by music by the Bee Gees, Daft Punk and Two Door Cinema Club.
27. “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga
On the other hand, it’s been more than 10 years since Lady Gaga released her smash hit “Just Dance.”
It’s taken from her debut studio album “The Fame.”
Although Lady Gaga had a highly successful career ever since, “Just Dance” remains one of her signature songs.
It’s a great throwback and a nice reminder of 2000s pop.
28. “Groove Is In The Heart” by Deee-Lite
If you’re searching for the best music for parties, you can’t go wrong with this groovy 90s pop hit.
There’s something about this song that makes it hard not to dance.
The backing track was built around many samples, but the song is still quite simple and catchy.
It’s a perfect tune for all kinds of celebrations.
29. “Heart Of Glass” by Blondie
“Heart Of Glass” is regarded as one of the greatest dance songs of all time.
It was released in 1978, and it made a huge impact on the music scene of that era.
The first version of the song had a slower, funkier sound with a basic disco beat so the band referred to it as “The Disco Song.”
And it’s hard to imagine that “Heart Of Glass” sounds any different – it’s just an iconic song that’s an essential part of music history.
30. “Baby Got Back” by Sir Mix-A-Lot
“Baby Got Back” is another legendary party song.
After being released in 1992, the song allegedly earned over $100 million dollars in 25 years (according to one of the interviews.)
It was obviously a life-changing hit for Mix.
Even though MTV banned the video for a while and would only play it after 9 pm.
But the song is still not forgotten, and it probably won’t be for many years to come.
31. “Dancing With Myself” by Billy Idol
When thinking about rock party music, Billy Idol is one of the names that comes to mind.
And this rock hit should definitely be on every essential party playlist.
“Dancing With Myself” was actually first released as a song by Gen Z, a punk rock band that was Billy Idol’s starting point of the career.
But it was re-released by Billy as a solo artist in 1981.
32. “Cotton Eye Joe” by Rednex
“Cotton Eye Joe” is one of the most popular country party songs.
It’s based on a traditional American folk song “Cotton Eye Joe.”
As the name of the band suggests, it’s a mix of country and hillbilly aesthetics.
But what may come as a surprise is that Rednex is actually a Swedish group.
That being said, this quirky party anthem should be classified as Eurodance.
33. “U Can’t Touch This” by M.C. Hammer
Of course, M.C. Hammer is an inevitable name in party music.
“U Can’t Touch This” is simply one of those party songs that everyone knows, even though it came out more than 30 years ago.
The famous opening riff is based on Rick James’ 1981 song “Super Freak.”
Besides bringing that 80s single alive, the rapper also established the so-called Hammer Dance.
He simply made it iconic.
34. “Jumpin’ Jumpin’” by Destiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child is a part of most top 100 party songs lists.
Beyonce’s iconic girl group had a lot of influence on the R&B music scene, and “Jumpin’ Jumpin’” was a huge hit back in the day.
And the song still sounds great.
It has a cool, catchy beat, and it captures the spirit of Destiny’s Child perfectly.
35. “1999’” by Prince
Now, it’s time to wrap things up and party like it’s 1999.
“1999’” is the title track from Prince’s 1982 album of the same name.
And it’s an ultimate party banger that will add a nice flavor to every party.
The official music video depicts Prince and his band during a live performance, and it captures the spirit of the song perfectly.
Best Party Songs – Final Thoughts
It wasn’t easy to pick the best party songs, but we tried to cover different styles and genres so there’s something for everyone.
Nevertheless, all of the songs we mentioned today are the world’s top party songs.
And they will certainly get you in the party mood!
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