These days, hip hop dance classes are incredibly popular. This form of dance is exciting, expressive, and artistic. It includes three primary styles: popping, locking, and breaking. However, hip hop dancing has cultural significance and has evolved into a way for people to use freestyle movements to express themselves. Learn about it’s origins below.

The History of Hip Hop Dance

The Origins of Hip Hop

This unique dance style got its start in Bronx, NY, during the 1970s. It’s inspired by the movements used in African dancing and evolved into street performances that incorporated aspects from modern tap, jazz, and swing. Kool DJ Herc, a Jamaican DJ that moved to Brooklyn at the age of 12, is known for extending songs so that they could better showcase the breaking movements of dancers.

From there, young African Americans and Latinos created their own art form, which was incorporated into everything, from their clothing to the way they spoke. Eventually, this art form became a lifestyle now known as hip hop. 

The Inclusion of Dance

Hip hop dancing originated from house parties held throughout the Bronx. Also known at the time as “breakdancing,” b-boys and b-girls would move to music that was essentially breakbeats on a loop. The earliest forms of breakdancing included drops to the ground, steps from a standing position, freezes, spins, and gestures that resembled a mock battle. 

Over time, the hip hop culture and dance made its way to the West Coast. There, the youth made their movements more robotic. It was in California where popping and locking movements were born. Though the West Coast style was supposed to stand apart from New York, over time, the styles merged into a single street dance culture. By the 1980s and 1990s, hip hop dance battles and freestyle competitions became highly popular. 

Its Modern Evolution

Even though it has a short history, this form of dance has become one of the most sought-after styles for music videos, dance competitions, and concerts. Hip hop dance classes can be found all over the world for people of all ages. Not only is it used to showcase cultural expression, but it’s also an excellent way to exercise and display creative movements.

Whether you want to learn a new style of dance or want to get into the culture, hip hop dance classes are a great place to start. New York Dance Center in Chester, NY, offers a variety of dance classes for children. Owner Gina Solimando and her well-trained staff of professional instructors help kids develop their skills in everything from hip hop to ballet to musical theater. To inquire about their programs, call (845) 615-1433, or visit them online today.