As the rhythm picks up and the beat becomes contagious, the streets come alive with dancers expressing themselves through their feet, body, and soul. Street dance has been a cultural phenomenon for decades, defying boundaries and evolving with time. But how did it all begin? What are the origins and influences that gave birth to this versatile and expressive art form? From Africa to Latin America, from the funk and soul of the 60s to the hip-hop movement of the 80s, street dance has a rich and diverse history. In this article, we’ll take a journey through time and explore the evolution of street dance, its various styles and techniques, and its global impact. Step by step, we’ll unfold the story of this vibrant and dynamic art form.
The Origins of Street Dance
As we delve into the world of street dance, it’s impossible to ignore the rich history and cultural influences that have paved the way for this dynamic art form. From African roots to Latin rhythms and funky grooves, the evolution of street dance has been shaped by many different styles and movements. In this section, we’ll explore the origins of street dance, looking at the diverse cultural origins that make up its vibrant history. So put on your dancing shoes and join us on this journey through time and culture.
African Roots
The roots of street dance can be traced back to Africa, where dance was a way of life and an integral part of religious and social ceremonies. African dance was characterized by strong rhythms and movements that were often influenced by the environment and daily life activities.
Examples of traditional African dance styles:
| Dance Style | Description |
| Umteyo | A traditional dance from South Africa performed by Xhosa people to celebrate joyous occasions. |
| Kwassa Kwassa | A style of dance from Congo characterized by fast hip movements and energetic footwork. |
| Kpanlogo | A social dance from Ghana performed by the Ga people to celebrate life events such as weddings and funerals. |
| Gumboot dance | A dance performed by mine workers in South Africa using rhythms created by stomping boots. |
As slavery brought Africans to the Americas in the 16th century, their dances and rhythms evolved and blended with the cultures of the slave masters. This led to the emergence of styles such as tap dance and the Charleston.
Fun Fact: The Charleston, a popular dance in the 1920s, was actually inspired by an African-American children’s game called “Pigtail.”
African dance has remained a significant influence on street dance styles today, particularly in the use of isolations, rhythms, and body movements. Hip-hop dance, for example, incorporates many African-inspired movements such as the “groove” which involves moving the body to the rhythm in a cool, relaxed way.
To learn more about hip-hop dance and other street dance styles, check out our article on 10 Street Dance Styles.
Latin Influence
Latin music and dance have played a crucial role in the evolution of street dance. The rhythm and passion of Latin American music types like salsa, mambo, and samba, have influenced numerous styles of street dancing. In the 1950s and 60s, Latin dances became widely fashionable in the USA, and many street dancers began to incorporate these styles into their routines.
Mambo was one of the first Latin styles to gain popularity among street dancers in the US. Originating in Cuba, mambo is a vibrant and lively dance style characterized by its fast pace and quick footwork. Dancers would often incorporate mambo moves into their routines, using the rhythm of the drums to guide their movements.
Salsa is another Latin style that has heavily influenced street dance. Originating in Puerto Rico and Cuba, salsa combines various dance styles, including mambo, cha-cha-cha, and rumba. The music has a fast tempo, and salsa dancing involves intricate footwork and partner work. Salsa music got popular in New York City during the 1970s, and soon dancers were using it to create exciting and dynamic street dance routines.
Samba is a Brazilian dance style with roots in African and European cultures. Samba music is characterized by fast-paced percussion and rich melodies, and the dance style incorporates a lot of hip movements and fast footwork. Street dancers were drawn to samba because of its energy and flashy movements, often incorporating it into their routines.
Incorporating Latin dance elements into street dance styles has led to the development of numerous other styles, like salsa hip hop, merengue hip hop, and samba reggae. Street dancers are still inspired by Latin music and dance, and it remains a crucial feature of the street dance scene today.
Internal Link: 5 Cool Street Dance Moves to Learn
Funk and Soul Music
During the 1960s and 70s, funk and soul music were the driving force behind the development of street dance. These genres of music, characterized by their heavy basslines, syncopated rhythms, and emotional vocals, often featured extended instrumental breaks that provided the perfect opportunity for dancers to showcase their skills.
B-boying or breaking was particularly influenced by funk and soul music. This dance form, which originated in the Bronx in the early 1970s, was performed to breakbeats – the instrumental sections of funk and soul songs that emphasized the rhythm section – and gave rise to its signature moves such as toprock, footwork, freezes and power moves. Breakdancers often battled each other in the streets and at community events, with the winner being the one who could display the most impressive dance moves.
Locking and popping, two other street dance styles that emerged during the same period, were also heavily influenced by funk and soul music. Locking was inspired by funk music and involved exaggerated arm and hand movements, punctuated by freezing in positions with wide-open arms and legs. Popping, on the other hand, involved contracting and relaxing the muscles to create sharp, jerking movements in time with the music, and was originally developed to accompany funk and soul music.
The music played a critical role in the development of the street dance movements of the 60s and 70s. The raw, powerful rhythms of funk and soul were the perfect accompaniment to the frenzied, high-energy dance moves, and this connection continues to be an essential element of modern-day street dance culture.
Hip-hop music was the logical evolution of funk and soul as it retained the raw energy and artistic expression of its predecessors, while incorporating elements of other genres like reggae, rock, and R&B, giving an incredibly diverse range of rhythms and tempos for dancers to work with.
Disco Era
During the Disco Era, which spanned from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, dance became a prominent part of the nightlife scene. Disco music with its upbeat and catchy tunes inspired people to move their bodies in new and exciting ways. Disco dancers often gathered in clubs, where they showed off their moves, creating a new style of dancing that emerged from the African American and Latino communities.
One of the most popular disco dances was the Hustle, a partner dance that involved fast-paced footwork and synchronized spins. The Electric Boogie, also known as the Electric Slide, was another disco dance that was characterized by sliding steps and synchronized arm movements.
The disco era also saw the rise of club dancing, which involved freestyle movements that were influenced by a variety of dance styles, including funk, soul, and Latin. The dances were a form of self-expression that allowed people to let loose and have fun on the dance floor.
Disco culture was also influential in the development of street dance. Hip-hop and street dancers began incorporating some of the disco moves and styles into their routines, fusing them with other dance styles to create something new and exciting. These innovative dance moves would eventually pave the way for the birth of new street dance styles, such as breaking and popping.
Today, the disco era’s impact can still be felt in the world of street dance. Many street dance competitions include disco-inspired dances, such as the Electric Boogie, as part of their repertoire. These dances continue to provide inspiration for modern street dance styles and are a testament to the enduring legacy of disco culture.
Check out our article on the benefits of street dance for health to learn more about how this type of dancing can improve your physical and mental well-being.
The Emergence of Hip-Hop
It’s impossible to talk about street dance without mentioning hip-hop, a culture that has permeated through music, fashion and, of course, dance. Hip-hop emerged in the Bronx during the 1970s as a form of self-expression and a way for Black and Latino youths to tell their stories. Through graffiti, DJing, MCing and, of course, dancing, hip-hop quickly spread beyond New York, becoming a global phenomenon that continues to evolve and inspire to this day. In this section, we’ll explore the emergence of hip-hop dance, including its different styles and pioneering dancers. If you want to learn more about some top street dance battles on YouTube that feature hip-hop, check out our article here.
Breaking
Breaking, also known as b-boying or breakdancing, is one of the most recognizable forms of street dance. It originated in the South Bronx of New York City in the 1970s and quickly spread throughout the world.
The moves of breaking are characterized by acrobatic and gymnastic elements, as well as footwork, freezes, and power moves. B-boys and b-girls (breakdancers) perform intricate and often gravity-defying tricks on the floor, incorporating spins, flips, and jumps into their routines. These moves are often performed in a cypher, a circle of dancers, where each dancer has a chance to showcase their skills.
Breaking was inspired by a variety of sources, including martial arts, gymnastics, and funk music. In the early days, breaking was primarily danced to funk and soul records, but as the dance style grew in popularity, it was also incorporated into hip-hop music and culture.
Today, breaking is a global phenomenon, with competitions and events taking place around the world. The most prestigious breaking competition is the Red Bull BC One World Final, which features the best b-boys and b-girls from around the globe.
Breaking has had a significant impact on street dance culture, with many other styles borrowing elements of breaking in their choreography. It has also influenced popular culture, appearing in music videos, movies, and even video games.
If you want to learn more about the legacy and impact of street dance, check out this article or read our interview with a renowned street dancer. If you’re into the fashion side of street dance, don’t miss our article on how to dress up for a dance battle!
Popping and Locking
Popping and Locking are styles of street dance that emerged in the 1970s during the heyday of funk music. Popping involves contracting and relaxing muscles to create a jerking movement in the body, while locking involves freezing in a specific position and then moving again. Together, the two styles create a robotic, mechanical effect that has become a hallmark of street dance.
Popping and Locking first gained recognition through their use in music videos, particularly those of artists such as Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. Michael Jackson’s iconic “Moonwalk” move, which involves sliding backwards while appearing to walk forwards, is a combination of these two styles.
To perform Popping and Locking correctly, dancers must have complete control over their bodies, with the ability to isolate individual muscles and create sharp, precise movements. The style has also evolved to incorporate elements of other dance styles such as jazz and contemporary.
Today, Popping and Locking continue to be popular in street dance competitions and events around the world, with dancers pushing the boundaries of what is possible with these two styles. Some dancers specialize in just one style, while others combine them with other street dance styles such as Breaking or House.
If you want to master street dancing and learn how to properly perform Popping and Locking, there are many resources available online and in-person. Many dance studios offer classes in these and other street dance styles, and there are also online tutorials and tutorials available on platforms such as Master Street Dancing.
House Dance
House dance originated in the 1980s in Chicago, Illinois, and shares its roots and inspiration with disco and funk music. It was popularized in the underground dance clubs and parties, where dancers would often have improvisational battles with one another.
The style features fast footwork, fluid body movements, and is characterized by its upbeat and energetic nature. The dancers often incorporate acrobatic moves and spins into their routines, and the dance is a reflection of the music that accompanies it.
House dance is also heavily influenced by the African American and Latinx communities, as well as the LGBTQ+ community, who have all played significant roles in shaping and evolving the dance style.
Some of the key elements that define house dance include the use of different rhythms and tempos within a single dance, the incorporation of footwork patterns inspired by tap dance and salsa, and the emphasis on individual expression and improvisation.
House dance has remained popular throughout the years and has spread to other parts of the world, particularly Europe and Japan, where it has been embraced and adapted by local dance communities.
Today, there are many competitions and events that showcase the best house dancers from around the world, and the style has become an important part of the broader street dance movement.
House dance is a vibrant and dynamic style of dance that has evolved from disco and funk music and incorporates elements of tap, salsa, and other dance styles. It is a reflection of the diverse communities that have contributed to its development, and it continues to be an important part of the contemporary dance scene both in the United States and around the world.
Krumping
Krumping is a highly energetic and expressive street dance style that originated in the early 2000s in Los Angeles, California. It is a highly improvisational dance form that involves rapid, exaggerated movements of the arms, legs and torso. The dancers typically wear loose, baggy clothing that allows them to move freely and expressively.
Some key characteristics of krumping include its high level of intensity, aggressive movements, and emotional expression. Krumping is often used as a form of self-expression and release for those who are experiencing various forms of adversity or difficulty. The dance style is heavily influenced by African American community and hip-hop culture.
Krumping is often performed in small “battles”, where two dancers or groups of dancers take turns showcasing their skills and trying to outdo each other. The style encourages improvisation and creativity, allowing dancers to incorporate their own unique movements and styles.
In krumping, dancers use a variety of movements and techniques, including “jabs” (quick and sharp arm movements), “chest pops” (forceful movements of the chest), and “stomps” (loud, stomping footwork). Krumpers often incorporate elements of other dance styles, such as breaking and hip-hop, into their performances.
Key elements of krumping:
- High level of intensity and energy
- Exaggerated movements of the arms, legs, and torso
- Loose, baggy clothing allowing for freedom of movement
- Focus on emotional expression
- Incorporation of other styles such as breaking and hip-hop
Today, krumping has gained popularity around the world and has been featured in music videos, commercials, and films. It continues to be a highly respected and influential dance style within the hip-hop community and serves as a powerful outlet for self-expression and creative inspiration.
Waacking
One of the lesser-known forms of street dance is Waacking, which originated in the underground clubs of Los Angeles in the 1970s. It focuses on fluid arm and hand movements, as well as posing and footwork, all set to the beat of disco music.
Waacking was popularized by LGBTQ+ dancers and clubs, particularly among queer people of color, and was originally called “punking.” However, it was later renamed “waacking” due to its notable use of wrist and arm movements. The dance form is characterized by its powerful and expressive style, with dancers using sharp, exaggerated movements to match the beat of the music.
While waacking has its roots in disco, it has since been incorporated into other genres, particularly house and EDM music. It has also gained more recognition within the mainstream dance world thanks to appearances on reality competition shows like So You Think You Can Dance.
Here is a table summarizing some key information about Waacking:
| Origin | Underground clubs of Los Angeles, 1970s |
|---|---|
| Music | Disco, house, EDM |
| Style | Fluid arm and hand movements, posing, footwork |
| Origins in LGBTQ+ Culture | Yes |
| Popularity | Lesser-known, but gaining recognition through reality competition shows |
Waacking may not be one of the most well-known street dance forms, but it has a rich history and a unique style that has been celebrated within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
Street Dance Goes Global
As street dance became more popular and evolved into various styles, it began spreading across the globe. From Asia to Europe to Australia, dancers were doing the moonwalk, popping and locking, and challenging each other in dance battles. The globalization of street dance not only allowed for the exchange of moves and techniques but also for the fusion of different cultures and styles. Let’s delve into the diverse ways street dance thrived outside its place of origin.
Japan and Asia
Japan and other Asian countries have embraced street dance culture, creating their own unique styles and variations. In Japan, street dance became popular in the 1990s with the emergence of groups like Tokyo Clown and I-VAN. They incorporated a mix of breaking, popping, locking, and other styles into their routines, creating a distinct Japanese flavor.
Korea has also made a significant impact on the street dance scene, with the rise of K-Pop and street dance competitions like the R16 Korea. K-Pop groups often incorporate street dance elements into their choreography, and many Korean dancers have gained international recognition for their skills.
In China, street dance has become a popular form of self-expression and an outlet for creativity. The country is home to numerous street dance competitions and events, including the annual F.I.S.T. Hip-Hop Dance Championship.
Other countries in Asia, such as the Philippines and Thailand, have also developed their own styles and communities around street dance. The Philippine AllStars, for example, have gained international acclaim for their unique fusion of street dance, hip-hop, and traditional Filipino dance.
Street dance has had a significant impact on the culture and entertainment industry in Japan and Asia. Its influence can be seen in everything from music videos and commercials to live performances and competitions.
Europe and the UK
The street dance scene in Europe and the UK was infused with a unique blend of American-influenced styles and local cultural influences. In the 1980s, London’s underground club culture was driven by breakdancing, popping, and locking. This period also marked the emergence of a British street dance style known as “Electric Boogie,” which incorporated popping and robot-like movements.
Many dancers in the UK also began adopting a form of dance called “street jazz,” which fused hip-hop with contemporary dance moves. In the 1990s, the rave scene exploded in the UK, and it brought with it a new wave of street dance styles such as “hardcore” and “gabber” dancing. These styles were characterized by fast-paced footwork and energetic movements, and they were heavily influenced by house music.
Germany was also a hub for street dance in Europe, with breakdancing and popping gaining popularity in the 1980s. The country’s rich history of electronic music also played a significant role in shaping its street dance culture.
France has always been known for its unique contribution to the street dance scene. In the 1990s, a style known as “French hip-hop” emerged. This style combined the basics of hip-hop with influences from traditional French dance styles, resulting in a distinctive and creative movement style.
Country | Street Dance Styles
— | —
UK | Breakdancing, Popping, Locking, Electric Boogie, Street Jazz, Hardcore, Gabber
Germany | Breakdancing, Popping, House Dance
France | French Hip-Hop, Krumping
The street dance scene in Europe and the UK has been a fusion of different styles and influences, resulting in a unique movement vocabulary that continues to evolve and inspire dancers around the world.
Australia and New Zealand
Australia and New Zealand, though geographically isolated, have also played a significant role in the global spread of street dance. In both countries, street dance has developed into a vibrant and diverse culture that reflects the unique identities and experiences of their respective communities.
Australia has a thriving hip-hop and street dance scene that has produced world-renowned dancers and crews. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have become hotspots for street dance performances, competitions, and events, attracting dancers from all over the world. The Australian hip-hop dance community is known for its emphasis on storytelling, improvisation, and athleticism. Dancers combine a range of styles, including breaking, popping, locking, and house, to create their own unique aesthetic.
Similarly, in New Zealand, street dance has become a popular form of cultural expression that reflects the country’s unique blend of Maori, Polynesian, and European influences. The hip-hop and street dance scene in New Zealand has been heavily influenced by the American style, but dancers have also incorporated traditional Maori and Polynesian movements, as well as contemporary dance styles, to create a truly distinctive form of street dance.
In recent years, street dance events such as the World Hip Hop Dance Championship and the Red Bull BC One have helped to raise the profile of street dance in Australia and New Zealand. These events have attracted the best dancers from around the world, giving local dancers the opportunity to compete and showcase their talents on a global stage.
Notable Australian street dance crews and artists include the NoneStop Dance Crew, the Rookies, and Unity Dance Crew, among others. In New Zealand, notable crews and artists include The Royal Family, ReQuest Dance Crew, and the art collective TMD (The Most Dedicated).
The growth and development of street dance in Australia and New Zealand highlight the power of this art form to bring together diverse communities and to create unique cultural expressions. Despite being separated from other global street dance communities by vast distances, Australian and New Zealand dancers continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what street dance can be.
Beyond Borders
Street dance has evolved from its humble beginnings on the streets of New York to become a global phenomenon. It has gained popularity all around the world and has influenced the dance culture of many countries. Beyond borders, street dance has been embraced and transformed by different communities, each leaving their unique stamp on the dance form.
In Brazil, street dance is known as funk and is heavily influenced by the country’s Carnaval celebrations. Funk dancers incorporate elements of samba and other Brazilian styles into their moves, resulting in a lively and energetic dance style.
In South Korea, street dance has been elevated to an art form thanks to the popularity of K-Pop. Many K-Pop idols showcase their street dance skills in their music videos and performances, leading to the rise of dance crews and competitions throughout the country.
In Africa, street dance has always been intertwined with traditional dance forms. Many African countries have infused street dance with their own cultural influences, resulting in unique styles such as azonto in Ghana and kuduro in Angola.
In the Middle East, street dance has taken on a new form known as dabke. Dabke involves a group of dancers performing synchronized moves to traditional Middle Eastern music. It is often performed at weddings and other celebrations.
The Philippines has also embraced street dance in a big way, with the rise of the popular dance crew, the Philippine All Stars. The group has won numerous awards and has even represented the country in international competitions.
Street dance has even made its way to remote areas such as the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific. The traditional dance form known as Pana involves dancers moving in unison while wearing grass skirts and coconut shells. Recently, Pana has been infused with modern street dance styles, resulting in a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary dance.
This global influence on street dance has helped to expand its reach and popularity, making it a truly universal art form.
The Legacy of Street Dance
As street dance continues to evolve and transcend borders, its impact on mainstream culture, events, and personal empowerment cannot be overemphasized. The raw and expressive nature of street dance has inspired a generation of dancers, artists, and enthusiasts across the globe. From dance competitions to blockbuster movies, street dance has cemented its position as a cultural phenomenon that has influenced popular culture in a myriad of ways. This section explores the legacy of street dance and how it has left an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape.
Influence on Mainstream Culture
One of the most significant impacts that street dance has had is its influence on mainstream culture. From movies and television shows to music videos and advertising campaigns, street dance has become a popular and recognizable language in the entertainment industry.
Movies and Television Shows: Street dance has had a major presence in a number of successful movies and television shows. “Step Up,” “Honey,” and “Breaking” are just a few examples of films that have showcased street dance styles and helped to popularize them further. Television shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “America’s Best Dance Crew” have also brought street dance into the living rooms of millions of viewers.
Music Videos: Street dance has also left its mark on the music industry. Artists like Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Usher, and Beyoncé have incorporated street dance styles into their music videos, making them even more visually dynamic and exciting to watch. In some cases, street dancers have even been featured as performers in music videos.
Advertising Campaigns: As street dance has become more mainstream, it has also been used as a marketing tool by companies looking to appeal to younger, trendier audiences. Major brands like Pepsi, Nike, and Coca-Cola have all used street dance in their advertising campaigns to connect with their target markets.
The influence of street dance on mainstream culture is undeniable. It has become a recognizable and popular language in the entertainment industry, and has helped to shape and inspire countless artists and performers.
Street Dance Competitions and Events
Street dance competitions and events have become a significant part of the street dance culture. These events showcase the technical skills, creativity, and individuality of different performers from all over the world.
One of the most prestigious street dance competitions is the World Hip Hop Dance Championship, which is held annually in the United States. This competition features some of the best hip hop dance crews from over 50 countries. The competition is known for its intense and electrifying performances.
There are also regional and national competitions that specialize in different styles of street dance. For example, Juste Debout is a French competition that features different street dance styles including popping, locking, and hip hop. They also have a category for experimental dance, where dancers can mix different styles of street dance with other dance forms.
In addition to competitions, there are also street dance festivals that gather dancers, choreographers, and enthusiasts to celebrate street dance culture. One of the most popular festivals in Europe is the Breakin’ Convention, which is held annually in London. The festival features performances from different street dance crews, workshops, and master classes led by renowned street dance choreographers.
These events not only celebrate the art of street dance but also provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent and connect with the wider dance community. Street dance competitions and festivals have also played a significant role in shaping the evolution of street dance styles, as dancers often incorporate new elements and techniques into their routines in order to stand out from the competition.
Street dance competitions and events have become a staple of the street dance culture, showcasing the power and creativity of this art form. They continue to inspire and empower dancers all over the world, while also bringing the community together in celebration of the art of street dance.
| Competition/Festival Name | Location | Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| World Hip Hop Dance Championship | United States | Hip Hop |
| Juste Debout | France | Popping, Locking, Experimental Dance |
| Breakin’ Convention | London, UK | Multistyle |
Empowerment and Expression
Street dance has not only been a form of entertainment and a cultural phenomenon, but also a powerful tool for empowerment and self-expression. For many who have embraced street dance, it has provided a platform to break free from social and economic limitations and express themselves through movement. Here are some key ways in which street dance has empowered individuals and communities:
- Breaking down barriers: Street dance is a unique art form in that it transcends cultural, racial, and socioeconomic boundaries. Those who engage in street dance are often able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and find common ground through their shared passion for dance.
- Fostering confidence and self-esteem: Many individuals who have struggled with self-confidence or feelings of inadequacy have found empowerment through dance. By mastering new skills and movements, dancers experience a sense of accomplishment that can lead to greater confidence and self-esteem.
- Encouraging creativity and individuality: Street dance has always celebrated individuality and creativity, and encourages dancers to express themselves in unique and innovative ways. This can be particularly empowering for those who may feel stifled or constrained in other areas of their lives.
- Promoting teamwork and collaboration: While street dance often emphasizes individual expression, it also requires a great deal of collaboration and teamwork. Dancers must learn to work together, support one another, and communicate effectively in order to create a cohesive group performance.
- Offering an outlet for emotion: For many dancers, street dance provides a healthy outlet for difficult emotions such as anger, frustration, or sadness. By channeling these emotions into their movement, dancers are often able to process and release them in a positive and constructive way.
Street dance has always been about more than just the moves – it’s a means of connecting with others, discovering one’s own strengths and abilities, and celebrating the power of individual expression.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the history and evolution of street dance is a rich and dynamic story with roots in Africa, Latin America, and American funk and soul music. From the early days of African dance and Latin rhythms to the emergence of hip-hop and modern styles such as krumping and waacking, street dance has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts and minds of people all over the world.
One of the most striking aspects of street dance is its ability to empower and inspire people from all walks of life. For many dancers, street dance is more than just a form of entertainment or a competitive pursuit – it is a way of life that provides a sense of community, connection, and creative expression. Street dance competitions and events have become a popular and respected platform for showcasing talent and pushing the boundaries of the art form.
Street dance has also had a profound impact on mainstream culture, influencing everything from fashion and music to film and television. Its cross-cultural appeal has helped to break down barriers and promote diversity and inclusivity.
As we look to the future of street dance, there is no doubt that it will continue to evolve and innovate. New dancers will emerge, new styles will be created and new communities will form. But one thing is certain – street dance will always remain a powerful force for creativity, empowerment, and self-expression. Its legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of people to come.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is street dance?
Street dance is a form of dance that originated on the streets and evolved from various cultures and music genres.
What music genres are commonly used in street dance?
Street dance can be performed to a variety of music genres such as hip-hop, funk, soul, disco, Latin, and more.
How is street dance different from other dance styles?
Street dance is unique in that it is typically improvisational, freestyle, and often performed in outdoor or unconventional settings.
What is breaking in hip-hop?
Breaking, also known as breakdancing, is a style of street dance that originated in the Bronx, New York in the early 1970s. It involves acrobatic and athletic moves performed to hip-hop beats.
What is popping and locking in street dance?
Popping is a technique used in street dance where the dancer quickly contracts and relaxes their muscles to create a popping effect. Locking is a style that involves the freezing of a dancer’s body in a certain position.
What is house dance in street dance?
House dance is a style of street dance that originated in the underground clubs of Chicago and New York in the early 1980s. It is characterized by fluid footwork and movements that are heavily influenced by disco and funk music.
What is krumping in street dance?
Krumping is a style of street dance that originated in South Central Los Angeles in the early 2000s. It involves energetic movements, exaggerated facial expressions, and a high level of intensity.
What is waacking in street dance?
Waacking, also known as punking or whacking, is a style of street dance that originated in the underground clubs of Los Angeles in the 1970s. It involves fluid arm and hand movements that are performed to disco and funk music.
What countries have street dance competitions?
Street dance competitions and events are held around the world, but some of the most popular countries for these events include the United States, Japan, France, and the United Kingdom.
What is the importance of street dance?
Street dance is more than just a dance style. It serves as a form of self-expression and empowerment for many dancers and has had a significant influence on mainstream culture and popular media.