Chest compressions must be delivered at the correct speed to maximize blood flow to the brain and heart. According to the American Heart Association, the ideal compression rate is 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
Keeping this pace under stress can be challenging. That’s where CPR songs come in. Many well-known songs have tempos that match the ideal compression rate. By recalling the beat of a familiar song, you can stay consistent and effective during CPR.
AEDs like the Philips HeartStart OnSite AED and Philips HeartStart FRx AED provide voice prompts that guide you during an emergency, but having a song in mind can further help you maintain rhythm while waiting for the AED to arrive.
Top CPR songs to remember
Here are some popular songs you can use to keep the correct CPR tempo:
- "Stayin' Alive" by Bee Gees
- "Dancing Queen" by ABBA
- "Crazy in Love" by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z
- "Hips Don't Lie" by Shakira
- "Just Dance" by Lady Gaga
- "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake
- "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
- "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd
- "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen
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"Walk Like an Egyptian" by The Bangles
These songs all have tempos close to 100–120 beats per minute. You don't need to sing out loud — just remembering the pace can help you keep the right rhythm.
Many CPR instructors even encourage trainees to practice compressions while listening to one of these songs during CPR training courses.
How to perform CPR with music in mind
When you encounter someone who may need CPR:
- Check for responsiveness and breathing.
- Call 911 or instruct someone nearby to call.
- Start chest compressions immediately if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
- Use the beat of your chosen CPR song to guide your compressions.
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Continue compressions until an AED arrives or emergency responders take over.
Aim for compressions that are about 2 inches deep for adults, allowing full recoil between compressions, while maintaining the beat.
If your location has an AED cabinet with a visible AED inside, retrieve it immediately or send someone to grab it while CPR is underway.
Tips for practicing CPR songs
- Choose one or two songs you know well to memorize.
- Practice compressions on a manikin or during a certified CPR and AED training class.
- Mentally hum or tap the beat during drills to build muscle memory.
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Teach coworkers, family members or team members the same technique.
Practice builds confidence, so you’re ready to act without hesitation in a real emergency.
Using an AED along with CPR
Even if your CPR is perfect, an AED is critical to correct the heart’s rhythm. CPR keeps blood flowing temporarily, but only a shock from an AED can restart the heart in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.
When the AED arrives:
- Turn it on immediately.
- Follow its voice prompts.
- Apply the pads to the bare chest as shown.
- Let the AED analyze and deliver a shock if needed.
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Resume CPR immediately after any shock, keeping the beat in mind.
Combining rapid CPR and AED use gives the person the best possible chance of survival.
Complete your emergency response setup
For true readiness, your CPR knowledge should be matched with the right equipment. Our AED packages include:
- AED devices
- Prep kits with gloves, scissors, wipes and masks
- Wall cabinets and signage
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Optional Bleeding Control Kits for full emergency response
Having everything organized and accessible ensures no time is wasted when it matters most.
Be ready to save a life
Memorizing a CPR song may seem like a small step, but it can make a huge difference during a cardiac emergency. The right tempo means better compressions, better blood flow, and a better chance of survival.
Equip yourself with the knowledge, tools, and confidence you need. Whether you are in a workplace, school, gym or home setting, preparation saves lives.
Shop AEDs now and build a safer, more prepared environment for the people around you.
