Hip Hop Dance
Hip hop dance originated as a performance culture. B-boys and b-girls would be invited by people to showcase their moves. As time progressed, the movements became more formalized and institutionalized. Its popularity grew, and more dancers caught on to the rhythms and routines. The dance scene moved from the streets to more formal dance clubs. As a result, hip hop choreography became more developed and choreographies became more recognizable. Despite the formalization of hip hop, the dance style remained innovative and unique.
Hip hop dance has evolved from older street dance styles, including b-girling, breaking, and funk. Breaking was developed in the 1970s in the Bronx and Brooklyn. It was inspired by James Brown’s “Good Foot” dance. Its moves involved chest bumping, fast muscle contractions, and jerking movements. Another style, known as locking, involves holding a position and freezing it.
Hip hop’s popularity has grown beyond its Bronx roots, becoming a multibillion-dollar industry. Today, it can be found at clubs around the world. DJs spin turntables in Sao Paulo, Brazil, MCs rap in Qatar, B-boys bust baby freezes in Finland, and young poets slam poetry in Washington, D.C. The original hip hop dances started as street parties in these neighborhoods. People would gather and dance to the beat of a rap song. These parties were called “breaks” and soon became a trend.
Hip hop dancing is a highly aerobic workout. It improves your stamina and promotes a positive mindset. In addition, hip hop dancing is a great social activity.