Country line dancing remained a dominant force in social venues throughout 2018, offering a high-energy combination of exercise, community, and musical nostalgia. While classic routines maintained their popularity, the year saw a surge in choreographies designed to match the latest chart-toppers from artists like Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood. This specific list focuses on the routines that defined the dance floors and workshops of 2018, capturing the specific energy and footwork that made that year particularly memorable.
The Resurgence of Classic Favorites
Several dances from previous years maintained a firm grip on popularity in 2018, often serving as the foundation for beginners and a reliable warm-up for veterans. The simple yet infectious rhythm of "Achy Breaky Heart" continued to be a staple at beginner-friendly sessions, while the circular energy of "Cupid's Chokehold" never failed to create a lively atmosphere. These core dances are essential for any instructor looking to fill a floor with confident dancers quickly.
Thunder Rolls
Capitalizing on the enduring appeal of Garth Brooks, the line dance to "Thunder Rolls" experienced a significant resurgence in 2018. The routine effectively mimics the stormy mood of the song, with intricate arm movements and directional changes that challenge intermediate dancers. Its combination of storytelling through motion and complex footwork made it a mainstay in both honky-tonks and dedicated country dance clubs.
Modern Chart-Toppers Take the Floor
As 2018 progressed, instructors quickly adapted to the newest radio hits, ensuring the line dance catalog remained fresh. Dances were created for chart dominance within weeks of a song's release, allowing the social scene to stay current. The focus on contemporary sounds ensured that the activity appealed to a younger demographic while still satisfying traditionalists who appreciated the familiarity of the melodies.
Woman, Amen
Dierks Bentley's "Woman, Amen" provided the perfect mid-tempo groove for the line dance floor in the middle of 2018. The choreography for this track highlighted intricate hand patterns and synchronized stepping, creating a sophisticated feel without sacrificing the accessibility expected of a popular line dance. It became a favorite for those looking to master a routine that looked complex but was relatively easy to pick up.
She Got the Best of Me
Luke Bryan's ubiquitous hit "She Got the Best of Me" dictated the pace of many a dance floor in the latter half of 2018. The line dance associated with this track is fast-paced and demanding, featuring rapid heel twists and syncopated rhythms that test a dancer's stamina. Mastering this routine was a badge of honor in 2018, as it allowed participants to keep up with the hottest track of the summer.
Global Favorites and Timeless Steps
The international appeal of country line dancing was evident in 2018, with venues in Europe and Australia embracing the same routines popular in the United States. This global consistency created a universal language on the dance floor, where a dancer from Texas could seamlessly join a group in Manchester. The following dances achieved universal recognition due to their catchy hooks and reliable structure.
| Dance Title | Key Artist/Year | Complexity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Copperhead Road | Steve Earle / Classic | Intermediate |
| El Caballito | Various / Crossover | Beginner |
| Tush Push | Hip Hop / Trend | Advanced |
| Ray Charles | tobyMac / Modern | Intermediate |
The diversity of the 2018 lineup ensured that the tradition remained vibrant. The blend of old standards and new hits catered to every taste, proving that the communal joy of moving in lines transcends fleeting musical trends. These specific dances capture the evolution of the craft during that pivotal year.