Hip hop entices many people because of the freedom and creativity the art form offers. Unlike classical dance, this unique form of movement is a product of the late 1900s. If you are interested in enrolling in hip hop dance lessons or just fascinated by the topic, the information below shares a little about hip hop's development and history. 

Origins

Hip hop is thought to have originated in New York City as early as the 1960s, although it is largely credited to DJ Kool Herc, a Jamaican DJ who showed off his new dance moves at a party in 1973. He set up his sounds system to play two records simultaneously to extend the percussion breaks and then used African-inspired dancing to gyrate to the music. After his solo, other dancers emulated his style and added to his technique. 

Evolution

Since hip hop dance was considered a modern art form in the mid- to late-seventies, dancers incorporated moves that seemed alien and robotic, and soon people were doing the robot. Some dancers even mimicked store mannequins. 

By the 1980s, hip hop became much more mainstream, and people would participate in informal competitions in dance clubs and street corners across the U.S., mainly in larger cities like New York and Los Angeles. Dancers would show up and show off their unique style and new moves, and another dancer would follow, trying to improve upon what the other person had done. 

Modern Day

Today, there are dozens of recognized hip hop dance styles that originated all over the world. Popping and locking involves dancers stopping their bodies suddenly after a fluid movement. Breaking includes floor work. There are also gymnastics, rhythm, and krumping, the latter of which focuses on very bold, abrupt dance moves marked by strong, rigid movements. Hip hop dance classes teach the fundamentals of many different styles and encourage dancers to find their own 'voice' so that they can bring their own new, original style to the streets.  

If you think your child would be interested in hip hop classes, a great place to start is Utah Dance Artists. Utah Dance Artists aims to not only create great dancers, but to also produce great kids! Using the vehicle of dance, UDA focuses on teaching life skills in the classroom such as focus, dedication and goal setting so your child Shines on Stage and in Life! UDA provides dance classes for dancers 18 months -18 years old, in beginning through pre-professional levels. Whether your child's interest lies in hip hop, jazz, tap, classical ballet, contemporary or ballroom, Utah Dance Artists can help in reaching their goals. Check out their schedules online, or give them a call at (801) 562-0913 to learn more about their offerings.