Hip hop dance has come a long way since its origins in the 1970s. From breakdancing to tutting, hip hop dance has evolved and adapted to the changing times. In this blog post, we'll take a journey through the history of hip hop dance and explore some of the key moments and styles that have shaped the genre.
Early Days: Breakdancing and Uprocking
Hip hop dance began in the 1970s in the Bronx, New York City. The early days of hip hop dance were characterized by two main styles: breakdancing and uprocking. Breakdancing, also known as b-boying or b-girling, is a high-energy style of dance that involves acrobatic moves, freezes, and battles. Uprocking, on the other hand, is a more fluid and rhythmic style of dance that involves rocking and gliding movements.
90s and 2000s: The Rise of Hip Hop Music Videos
As hip hop music gained popularity in the 90s and 2000s, so did hip hop dance. Music videos became a major platform for showcasing new dance moves and styles. Choreographers like Fatima Robinson and Laurieann Gibson helped to popularize hip hop dance through their work with artists like Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, and Beyonce.
2000s and 2010s: The Emergence of New Styles
In the 2000s and 2010s, new styles of hip hop dance began to emerge. Krumping, a style of dance that originated in Los Angeles, is characterized by its energetic and expressive movements. Tutting, a style that involves intricate hand and arm movements, gained popularity through the work of choreographer Kyle Hanagami and his dance company, Imprint Dance Crew.
Present Day: The Influence of Social Media
Today, social media has played a major role in the evolution of hip hop dance. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have allowed dancers to share their moves and connect with other dancers from around the world. This has led to the emergence of new styles and trends, as well as the popularization of existing ones.
Overall, the evolution of hip hop dance is a testament to the creativity and resilience of the hip hop community. From its humble beginnings in the Bronx to its current status as a global phenomenon, hip hop dance has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times.
