Shania Twain Reveals Her Honest Playlist: Dancing Queen and More 2026

Shania Twain, the iconic country-pop singer, recently shared her honest playlist in an interview, revealing the songs that have shaped her life and career. She spoke about the power of music, from Ennio Morricone's 'Gabriel's Oboe' to Abba's 'Dancing Queen'. This article dives into her personal favorites and the stories behind them.

The Song That Changed Her Life

Twain recalled how Ennio Morricone's 'Gabriel's Oboe' from The Mission soundtrack hit her hard. 'I had to pull off the road, I cried like a baby. I didn't realise how powerful music could be until that moment. I was 22,' she said. This moment marked a turning point in her understanding of music's emotional depth.

The First Single She Bought

At 17, Shania Twain purchased Janis Ian's 'At Seventeen'. She referenced the song in her album Little Miss Twain, calling it a reflection of a teenage misfit. 'I felt like her, I related – but I was also thinking: Wow, I have to some day write this well,' she explained. Earning money babysitting and singing in bars, she saved up for that record.

Best Song to Play at a Party

According to Twain, if Abba's 'Dancing Queen' comes on and you're in the bathroom, 'you rush to get out, you can't miss a second of it.' She called it the ultimate party anthem.

The Song She Secretly Loves

Despite public disdain, Twain confessed she 'nerds out' to The Phantom of the Opera album. 'I have to do it by myself – it's sort of a secret,' she admitted.

Song That Gets Her Up in the Morning

Pop music helps Twain start her day, with Harry Styles's 'Sign of the Times' being a current favorite. 'Pop always brings me somewhere new,' she noted.

Songs That Make Her Cry

Michael Jackson's 'Ben' made Twain cry as a child. The emotional resonance of that song has stayed with her.

Her Karaoke Go-To

Although initially reluctant to perform karaoke, Twain now enjoys 'Killing Me Softly' by Roberta Flack. 'I was really purist about it, but I realised I'm missing out on all the fun,' she said.

Song for Her Funeral

Twain would choose Bobby McFerrin's 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' for her funeral. 'As the dead person, I want to say: this is a moment you cannot control, life goes to shit sometimes,' she explained.

Key Takeaways from Shania Twain's Playlist

• Music can be emotionally transformative – as seen with 'Gabriel's Oboe'.
• Early influences like Janis Ian shaped her songwriting goals.
• Pop anthems like 'Dancing Queen' are timeless party starters.
• Even superstars have secret guilty pleasures.
• Humor and acceptance can be found in funeral song choices.

FAQ

Shania Twain's Little Miss Twain is out now, and her candid playlist offers a rare glimpse into the music that moves her.