Table of Contents
- The Importance of CPR Songs
- The Science Behind CPR & Music
- How Do I Choose the Right CPR Song for Me?
- What Are Some Great CPR Songs?
- CPR Songs by Decade
- How to Use CPR Songs in an Emergency
- Where Can I Learn More About CPR?
- CPR Song FAQs
You’re at a crowded park when someone suddenly collapses. You rush over, heart racing, but your CPR training takes over. Kneeling, you start chest compressions.
1, 2, 3, 4 — wait, how fast are you going?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving procedure, and maintaining the right pace, or rhythm, is key. That’s where CPR songs come into play. First responders have long used songs to stay on track, and you can do the same.
You’ve probably heard of the Bee Gees’ hit “Stayin’ Alive.” At 104 beats per minute (BPM) with fitting lyrics, it’s a popular and effective choice. If you’ve had CPR training at work, you were likely told to use this song to keep the right pace.
“Stayin’ Alive” isn’t the only song that works for CPR. In fact, there are plenty of other songs that can help you keep the rhythm when performing chest compressions. And the best part is, they might even work better for you.
Read on to discover more alternative songs to help you maintain the perfect rhythm while performing CPR.
The Importance of CPR Songs
When someone’s heart stops beating, every second is vital. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) helps keep blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and other essential organs until emergency medical help arrives. Performing CPR correctly involves chest compressions, which must be done at a consistent rate to be effective.
Research has shown that compressions should be delivered at 100–120 compressions per minute, which coincidentally matches the rhythm of some familiar songs. This is where CPR songs come in. Songs like “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees or “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen are ideal for helping CPR providers maintain the right compression rate.
Music acts as a built-in metronome, making it easier for responders to keep a steady rhythm, even under pressure. The familiar beat of these songs not only helps maintain the correct compression rate but also reduces anxiety in emergency situations, allowing responders to stay calm and focused.
The Science Behind CPR & Music
As mentioned above, the recommended compression rate for CPR is between 100 and 120 compressions per minute. This rate has been scientifically shown to optimize the circulation of blood and oxygen to vital organs. Too slow or too fast a rate can reduce the effectiveness of CPR, leaving the heart and brain at risk of damage.
Here’s what chest compressions look like in action:
Syncing chest compressions to music is a practical method for maintaining this ideal pace. Several studies provide evidence that the connection between rhythm and action simplifies the process and supports the consistency needed to make CPR more effective.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association supports the idea, finding that using a rhythmic cue like a metronome can reduce errors in compression rate and increase overall effectiveness. These findings reinforce the idea that music can be a simple but powerful tool to improve CPR outcomes and potentially save lives.
How Do I Choose the Right CPR Song for Me?
In theory, any song between 100 and 120 BPM will do, but in practice, it helps to err on the slower end. One of ProTrainings’ on-staff paramedics, Jason Courtade, says: “A general rule of thumb is 118–120 BPM. However, usually when someone is doing CPR, with all the adrenaline, they tend to push faster. So ideal songs would be between 100 and 114 BPM.”
Another important thing to keep in mind is to choose a song that you know well and will likely remember.
In high-pressure situations, we tend to forget things, so make sure that the song is extra memorable.
To choose the right CPR song for you, think of songs with choruses that get stuck in your head.
The song should also have a good, consistent beat. The point of the song is to keep you on rhythm, so it helps if the song is something that gets your foot tapping.
It also helps to make sure the song is one you like. You’re going to be using it to practice, so it’s going to be running through your head pretty frequently. There’s nothing worse than having a song you’re tired of stuck in your head!
What Are Some Great CPR Songs?
Here are some ideas for songs you can practice CPR to. Everyone has different reactions to stressful scenarios, so we’ve selected some quicker options (110–115 BPM) and some slower options (100–109 BPM).
Remember, anything that will be easy for you to remember and that makes you want to tap your foot is a great option.
Up-Tempo CPR Songs
Looking for up-tempo CPR songs with a bpm rate of at least 110? Here are some of our favorites and a convenient playlist on Spotify:
- “Up in Here” by 5 After Midnight
- “Lovefool” by The Cardigans
- “You Get What You Give” by New Radicals
- “6 God” by Drake
- “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” by Bob Dylan
- “Bad Company” by Five Finger Death Punch
- “Born to Be Yours” by Kygo and Imagine Dragons
- “Check My Brain” by Alice in Chains
- “Burnin’ Up” by Jonas Brothers
- “Do You Believe in Love” by Huey Lewis and the News
- “Caught Up” by Usher
- “Last Night in Miami” by Kat Luna
- “Motownphilly” by Boyz II Men
- “Without Me” by Eminem
- “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars
- “Baby Shark” by Pinkfong
- “I’ll Wait” by Van Halen
- “Lost and Found” by Brooks & Dunn
- “Orinoco Flow” by Enya
- “Dance Hall Days” by Wang Chung
Keep in mind that we tend to do CPR faster when the pressure is on. So if you want to learn CPR to a slower bpm song, check out our list of down-tempo CPR songs.
Down-Tempo CPR Songs
Here are our top recommendations for CPR songs of 100-110 BPM and a helpful playlist on Spotify:
- “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
- “Payphone” by Maroon 5 and Wiz Khalifa
- “Set Fire to the Rain” by Adele
- “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
- “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson
- “Pon de Replay” by Rihanna
- “Back in Black” by AC/DC
- “Sorry” by Justin Bieber
- “Moment 4 Life” by Nicki Minaj
- “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5
- “I Wanna Love You” by Akon and Snoop Dog
- “Haunted” by Taylor Swift
- “Intoxication” by Disturbed
- “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé and Jay-Z
- “Father of Mine” by Everclear
- “Dirty Laundry” by Nickelback
- “Mysterious Ways” by U2
- “With You” by Linkin Park
- “The Real Slim Shady” by Eminem
- “The Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats
- “Two Princes” by Spin Doctors
- “Little Talks” by Of Monsters and Men
- “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
Remember, choose a song that you know well and won’t mind singing in your head for several minutes at a steady pace.
CPR Songs by Decade
Have a favorite musical decade? It’s OK — we all do. Choose a song that fits your music personality!
The 1970s
Nothing like a ‘70s throwback! These songs fall in the 100–120 BPM range.
- “Stayin’ Alive” – Bee Gees (103 BPM)
- “Superstition” – Stevie Wonder (105 BPM)
- “Let’s Stay Together” – Al Green (100 BPM)
- “Hotel California” – Eagles (115 BPM)
- “Go Your Own Way” – Fleetwood Mac (120 BPM)
- “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (98 BPM)
- “American Pie” – Don McLean (118 BPM)
- “Dreams” – Fleetwood Mac (120 BPM)
- “Rich Girl” – Hall & Oates (114 BPM)
- “Me and Bobby McGee” – Janis Joplin (108 BPM)
The 1980s
Absolute ‘80s fanatic? These songs range from 100 to 125 BPM.
- “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson (117 BPM)
- “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses (125 BPM)
- “Every Breath You Take” – The Police (117 BPM)
- “Like a Virgin” – Madonna (116 BPM)
- “Take On Me” – A-ha (168 BPM, but the chorus is around 105 BPM)
- “Physical” – Olivia Newton-John (122 BPM)
- “With or Without You” – U2 (110 BPM)
- “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” – Poison (100 BPM)
Download our PDF guide to choosing your CPR song!
The 1990s
Are you a ‘90s kid? These songs fall within the 100–120 BPM range.
- “Wannabe” – Spice Girls (110 BPM)
- “Smooth” – Santana ft. Rob Thomas (116 BPM)
- “Say My Name” – Destiny’s Child (119 BPM)
- “No Rain” – Blind Melon (119 BPM)
- “Black Hole Sun” – Soundgarden (around 108 BPM, with variations)
- “What’s Up?” – 4 Non Blondes (121 BPM)
- “Torn” – Natalie Imbruglia (112 BPM)
- “One Headlight” – The Wallflowers (113 BPM)
- “Don’t Speak” – No Doubt (112 BPM)
- “I Want It That Way” – Backstreet Boys (99 BPM, but the chorus is around 117 BPM)
The 2000s
Some say the 2000s were a golden age of music. If that’s you, check out this list!
- “Hips Don’t Lie” – Shakira ft. Wyclef Jean (100 BPM, but it has energetic sections around 110 BPM)
- “Crazy” – Gnarls Barkley (112 BPM)
- “Drops of Jupiter” – Train (100 BPM)
- “Chasing Cars” – Snow Patrol (104 BPM, but it feels like around 100 BPM)
- “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers (148 BPM, but it has sections around 110 BPM)
- “Hot N Cold” – Katy Perry (132 BPM, but it has sections around 110 BPM)
- “Clocks” – Coldplay (131 BPM, but it has sections around 110 BPM)
- “Hey There Delilah” – Plain White T’s (100 BPM, but it has sections around 110 BPM)
- “Seven Nation Army” – The White Stripes (124 BPM, but it has sections around 110 BPM)
The 2010s
Can you believe some of these songs are reaching throwback status?
- “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (115 BPM)
- “Shape of You” – Ed Sheeran (96 BPM, but it has sections around 100 BPM)
- “Havana” – Camila Cabello ft. Young Thug (105 BPM)
- “Pompeii” – Bastille (127 BPM, but it feels like around 105 BPM)
- “Riptide” – Vance Joy (104 BPM)
- “Counting Stars” – OneRepublic (122 BPM)
- “Rolling in the Deep” – Adele (105 BPM)
- “Roar” – Katy Perry (100 BPM)
- “Stay” – Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko (112 BPM)
- “Some Nights” – fun. (108 BPM)
How to Use CPR Songs in an Emergency
In an emergency situation, quick and effective action can make all the difference. Using a CPR-appropriate song to guide your chest compressions can help maintain the correct rhythm and increase the chances of survival.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to perform CPR while syncing your compressions to music:
- Check for Responsiveness and Breathing
First, assess the person to see if they’re conscious or breathing. Gently tap their shoulder and shout to see if they respond. If there’s no response, check for normal breathing by looking at the chest to see if it rises and falls. If they’re unresponsive and not breathing or breathing abnormally, it’s time to begin CPR. - Call Emergency Services
Call 911 or ask someone nearby to do so. CPR should be started immediately, but getting emergency help on the way is crucial for providing the person with the best chance of survival. - Start Chest Compressions to the Beat of a CPR Song
Position yourself at the person’s chest, placing your hands on the center of the chest, just below the sternum. Begin chest compressions, pressing down at least 2 inches deep and allowing the chest to rise fully between compressions. Sync your compressions to the beat of a song like “Stayin’ Alive” or “Another One Bites the Dust,” both of which are around 100–120 beats per minute. This rhythmic guidance will help you maintain the necessary pace. - Continue Compressions Until Help Arrives
Keep performing chest compressions at the right rate until emergency medical personnel arrive or the person starts to show signs of life, such as breathing or moving. If you’re unable to perform rescue breaths, continue compressions without interruption.
Tips for Staying Calm and Focused During an Emergency
Staying composed in an emergency is challenging, but it’s essential for effective CPR. The tips below will help you maintain focus:
- Breathe and focus on the task. Take deep breaths to calm yourself before starting CPR. Focus solely on the rhythm of your compressions and the beat of your CPR song to avoid getting overwhelmed by the situation.
- Enlist help if available. If others are around, ask them to assist. Having someone help with calling emergency services or performing rescue breaths can reduce your workload and stress.
- Keep the beat in mind. The rhythm of your CPR song will help you stay focused on maintaining the correct compression rate. If you start to lose your rhythm, just focus on the song, and let it guide you back to the right pace.
- Visualize the goal. Remind yourself that each compression brings the person closer to receiving the medical help they need. Keep your focus on providing the best care you can until help arrives.
Using a CPR song to guide your compressions and staying calm gives you the best chance of performing effective CPR and helping save a life.
Creating Your Own CPR Playlist
Creating a personal CPR playlist is a practical and empowering way to prepare for emergencies. The key is selecting songs with tempos between 100 and 120 beats per minute, which match the recommended compression rate for effective CPR.
A playlist consisting of a mix of genres and tempos is engaging and easy to follow under pressure. To identify songs with the correct tempo, platforms such as Spotify offer pre-made CPR or workout playlists that highlight tracks within the ideal BPM range. You can also use online tools to analyze the BPM of your favorite songs to see if they’re a good fit.
Once your playlist is ready, keeping it accessible is essential. Save it on a device you carry daily, like your smartphone or tablet, and download it for offline use so you’re prepared no matter the situation. Some emergency apps even include built-in metronomes or curated song lists, which can complement your playlist.
Testing your chosen songs by practicing compressions to the beat can also help you feel more comfortable and prepared to respond in real-life emergencies. With your CPR playlist in hand, you’re taking a proactive step in emergency preparedness and equipping yourself with the proper tools to aid in any medical emergency.
Where Can I Learn More About CPR?
At ProTrainings, we’re committed to empowering individuals with the skills and confidence needed to save lives. While tools like CPR songs can help guide chest compressions, they’re no substitute for formal CPR training.
Proper training prepares you to respond effectively in a wide range of emergency situations, from providing compressions to using an AED. Explore our online first-aid and CPR courses to gain the knowledge that’s essential for saving lives. Share what you learn with friends, family, and colleagues to create safer communities for everyone.
Visit our website to find the right course for you, and follow us on LinkedIn for more lifesaving tips and resources.
CPR Song FAQs
Using music as a guide for CPR is a proven and widely recognized approach that makes this lifesaving skill easier to perform and more effective. While many people are familiar with the idea, it’s natural to have questions about how CPR songs work and how to use them in real-world scenarios.
- Do I need to sing a song out loud while performing CPR?
No, singing out loud isn’t necessary while performing CPR. The purpose of using a CPR song is to guide the rhythm of your chest compressions. As long as you can keep the song’s beat in your mind or hum it quietly, you’ll be able to stay on track. - What if I don’t know any CPR songs by heart?
Many people rely on familiar tunes like “Stayin’ Alive” because of their steady rhythm, but if nothing comes to mind, you can simply aim for a steady pace of 100–120 compressions per minute. Some CPR apps or online resources provide built-in metronomes that can help you maintain the correct rhythm. - Can I use any song within the 100–120 BPM range?
Yes, any song with a beat that falls within the 100–120 BPM range can work for CPR. You’re not limited to specific songs, so you can customize your approach with tracks that feel natural and easy to follow. This flexibility allows you to choose songs that resonate with you personally, making it easier to stay focused during an emergency. - Is using a CPR song effective for everyone, including children?
The rhythm of a CPR song is helpful for performing compressions on adults and children alike. However, it’s important to remember that the depth and technique of compressions vary depending on the age and size of the person. While the beat remains the same, the force of the compressions should be adjusted appropriately to avoid causing harm.
For more information on proper hand placement during CPR, check out our infographic.
- What if I don’t have a playlist or song ready during an emergency?
In an emergency, it’s perfectly fine to perform chest compressions without a song as long as you can keep a steady rhythm. Count out loud or in your head at a pace of 100–120 beats per minute. The most important thing is to start CPR as quickly as possible and focus on maintaining consistent compressions. - Does music really help with CPR?
Music helps by giving you a consistent rhythm to follow, which can reduce hesitation and keep you focused during the stress of an emergency. Studies have shown that syncing compressions with the beat of a song improves both the accuracy and consistency of CPR, making it an effective tool for both trained professionals and bystanders.
CPR songs are a simple yet powerful way to improve your confidence and effectiveness when performing chest compressions. Learning how they work and practicing with tools like playlists or metronomes helps you stay prepared to act quickly and save a life when it matters most.