Hip hop dance has its origins in African dance and Caribbean music. While many artists have combined their interpretations of street dance and music to create the hip hop music, culture and dance we appreciate today, DJ Kool Herc is typically credited with pioneering break beat sounds that are the foundation of hip hop. James Brown also contributed to the building blocks of hip hop through his choice of drummers and base beat; Earl Tucker's snake hips moves were early inspiration for later dancers.
Break Dancing
Break dancing came about as a result of Kool Herc's break beats, prompting a frenetic form of street dancing that was quickly embraced by New York City, especially by those in the Bronx. Black social dance influenced the specific moves that became popular as break dance competitions flourished, both informally and formally.
Funk Dancing
At the same time that break dancing was gaining popularity on the East Coast, popping and locking was coming into its own in California. Don Campbell is usually credited with this form of dance, but soon the two camps began merging techniques and a new unique style emerged. Modern dance moves influenced the final product as hip hop dance started to go mainstream.
A Platform For Social Issues
Because hip hop music started in the streets of major cities with significant problems, especially in places where racial tensions and socio-economic disparity were serious issues, hip hop dance has acted as the communication vehicle for cries of social change. Some messages communicated have been criticized for violence and anger; other messages have been credited with bringing awareness and reparation.
Mainstream Hip Hop Dance
While hip hop still remains a distinct music and dance genre, many pop artists borrow both musical cues and dance moves from the hip hop movement. This style of music is considered fabulous dance music and is used as a backdrop for many parties, private and commercial. These dancers are major players in the entertainment world.
You can take a hip hop dance class if you're interested in learning this fun and challenging dance style. Check your local fitness club and dance studio for classes.
 | Beginner hip hop dance moves are not hard to master. These moves are the foundation for other, more complicated dance moves that you might want to learn later. |
 | Looking for hip hop dance tips? Are you new to the scene and worry that you don't know what to do? These suggestions can help you stand out at the club-for all the right reasons. |
Interested in the history of hip hop dance? This dance culture has gained mainstream acceptance and has permeated American culture, making "hip hop" a household word. |
If you want to dance hip hop but you don't have time for formal hip hop instruction, check out these simple moves, such as popping and crazy legs. |
Want to learn how to dance hip hop? Not sure where to start? A popular hip hop dance move, the Harlem Shake, is a good place to start. |
