Hip hop dance is a vast world of moves that can be mixed and matched to fit any music. It’s a style that’s often used in competitive dance battles and has been adapted for the stage on shows such as “So You Think You Can Dance.” Many classically trained dancers also use hip hop studio styles to create their choreography. This dance genre grew out of the street, and it’s still influenced by the culture that created it.
Some of the main elements in hip hop dance include krumping, breaking, popping and locking. These styles can be used alone or incorporated into other dance movements, as was the case with the 1990s’ adaptation of funk styles such as the Running Man, Cabbage Patch and Harlem Shake into hip hop dancing. More recent songs have inspired new party dances like the Whip, Nae Nae and Dougie that are part of contemporary hip hop.
Breaking is one of the four original elements that make up hip hop culture along with deejaying, graffiti and emceeing. It’s not included in the Red Bull Dance Your Style competition because breakers have their own competition, but dancers who are experienced at freestyle improv can sometimes incorporate elements of this style into their routines.
Some of the most famous male hip hop dancers include MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice and Usher among others. Ladies have been able to be just as successful in the hip hop dance arena, with some of the most notable names including Michael Jackson, Les Twins, Ciara and Aaliyah. The genre’s popularity continues to grow, with dance crews now competing worldwide in hip hop battles.
