Dance has long been central to how music becomes visual culture. Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Madonna’s Vogue, Jamiroquai’s Virtual Insanity and Beyoncé’s Single Ladies are just a few of the iconic music videos that turned choreography into an essential part of the song itself.

For years, the “Best Dance” award at the MTV Video Music Awards served as a marquee recognition for the artists shaping dance music and culture. As the VMAs expanded to reflect new genres and shifts in the industry, however, the category eventually disappeared from the lineup.

Now, for the first time in seven years, BACARDÍ is bringing Best Dance back. Its return comes as dance has found new momentum both on-screen and off. On social platforms, choreography can help a song break through, spread and invite millions of fans to participate, while the resurgence of live music, nightlife, festivals and day parties is giving people more reasons to dance together in person. BACARDÍ saw an opportunity to bring that cultural role back into focus, reviving Best Dance at a moment when movement is once again shaping how music travels, connects people and shows up in culture.

We're Finding New Ways to Gather Around Music

Music has always been social, but the settings around it continue to evolve. Daytime parties, morning raves and other alternatives to traditional nightlife are creating new occasions for people to gather. Among Gen Z, attendance at daytime music events, parties and club gatherings increased 44% year-over-year. (Eventbrite, 2025)

That interest is about more than the event itself. 77% of fans say the crowd makes them feel part of something bigger than themselves. (Live Nation, 2025) Live music creates an experience that is difficult to replicate alone: people are hearing the same song, reacting in real time and participating in the same moment.

Dance takes that participation a step further. Rather than simply listening, people can respond physically to the music, whether that happens at a club, a festival, a party or at home.