Many dance studios offer hip-hop dance classes. This unique style of street dance is commonly performed to hip-hop music and offers a more laid back form of movement. It allows dancers to worry less about technique and more about expressing themselves. Use the following guide to learn more about its origins.

Early Days

Hip-hop dancing began in the late 1960s and early 1970s in New York City and along the East Coast. The early style was originally inspired by the complex rhythms and movements found in African dancing. It flourished as a new form of street choreography that incorporated many other dance forms, including modern, tap, and swing.

Around the same time, a similar style also became popular on the West Coast. Dancers in this region developed the popping and locking movements that would strongly define and shape the scene. These movements are now commonly taught in today’s hip-hop dance classes.

Competitions

In the 1980s, the East and West Coast hip-hop styles began to merge, and an entire culture was created. Hip-hop choreography became popular in dance studios, and freestyle competitions started to appear in clubs. The improvised one-on-one and group battles would go on to inspire more professional competitions. By the 1990s, well-promoted competitions became nightly events at hip-hop clubs.

Modern Hip-Hop

Today, hip-hop has evolved into a favorite form of dance on the stage and screen. Movies such as 'Step Up' and 'Stomp the Yard' are dedicated to hip-hop dancing. It's also one of the most common dance styles used in music videos, concerts, and dance competitions. Also, many choreographers and dancers, such as tWitch and Ciara, are household names. It's easy to find a local dance studio that features hip-hop dance classes for people of all ages. 

For quality hip-hop dance classes, head to Caledonia Dance & Music Center in Caledonia, MI. For over 17 years, this dance studio has offered pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop dance classes for kids of all ages. Their dedicated teachers will help your child learn, improve, and express themselves using costumes, music, and choreography. Call (616) 891-1606 to enroll your child, or visit their website to learn more about their classes.