Music
What Makes Hip Hop Dance Moves Iconic? 14 Moves You Should Know
Step into the rhythm with 14 legendary hip hop dance moves! Explore old-school classics and modern favorites. With a little practice, you’ll groove like a pro in no time.
The cultural impact, versatility, and popularity of the most iconic hip hop dance moves can’t be overstated. These moves are hypnotic for a reason: they’re the perfect liaison for connecting music and rhythm, and for bringing a song to life.
One of the most unique aspects of hip hop is how natural and second-nature these dance moves appear when done right. Swiss Red Bull dancer Poppin’C puts it best.
“I practice almost always. It’s become a way of life for me,” he says. “I’ve been doing it for so long that it doesn’t feel like I have a routine.”
Whether hip hop is your “way of life” or you’re just getting started, this guide has all of the must-know moves for your next routine. Keep reading to learn more about the culture and choreography that makes this style of dance so iconic.
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A brief overview of the history of hip hop dance
Many modern hip hop dance moves were born from street dances in 1970s, with some going as far back as the 1960s.
Countless hip hop moves were inspired by African dance movements, with tap, swing, and modern dance in the mix. Fad dances were a part of the scene, like choreographer Don Campbell’s locking. Others, like the robot, were popularized by the one and only King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Breaking, one of the most iconic of all hip hop dance movements, traces its roots to the 1970s and James Brown’s on-stage dances.
Music videos pushed many hip hop dances into the mainstream. It wasn’t uncommon to see a street dance dominate international dance floors after its feature in a video. In the 1990s, artists began to create dances specifically for the songs they released, starting with MC Hammer’s Hammer Dance in his video for “U Can’t Touch This.” This trend continues today: other famous examples include Terror Squad, Remy Ma, and Fat Joe’s “Lean Back” (2004) and the fusion of the Whip and the Nae Nae by Silentó (2015).
While the medium may have changed, the momentum behind the explosive growth of hip hop dance moves certainly hasn’t. Trending dances have always been an influence, but social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube take them to a new level of virality.
15 iconic hip hop dance moves everyone should know
These moves all originate from different types of hip hop dance, and still hold a place:
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Tips for learning hip hop dance moves
The best way to dip your toes into this complex genre is by keeping it simple with foundational moves, like the two-step and running man. From there, you can add in elements of your style and make the dance practice your own.
Some find it easier to practice hip hop moves at home, following online tutorials, while others prefer to find a mentor or join a class. Whatever your preference is, just make sure to practice often, as repetition will help you develop rhythm and muscle memory.
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Find your groove: embrace the energy of hip hop dance
If your hip hop dance journey is just beginning, let this guide provide you with some stepping stones to gain confidence and experiment with style. Between honoring the genre’s history, building fitness and finding a dance community, there are countless reasons to celebrate hip hop.
But don’t stop here — there are countless online instructional videos, classes, and challenges available to help you master even the trickiest of moves. So, what are you waiting for? Get to dancing.