Today, it's commonplace to see hip-hop dancing on television and in movies or to sign your kids up for hip-hop dance lessons. However, this style of dance wasn't always so mainstream and has evolved significantly since its original introduction to the dance community. Here's some insight into the history of this popular dance form.

What Is the Origin of Hip-Hop?

Hip-hop dance was originally inspired by traditional African dancing. In New York City in the late 1960s, informal street dancers began integrating these African-inspired moves with those belonging to other styles, particularly tap and swing dancing. Combining these traditions with dynamic freestyle movements birthed what is now known as hip-hop. 

A Jamaican DJ by the name of Kool DJ Herc was instrumental to the East Coast hip-hop scene, making his mark by extending the dance breaks in popular songs to give hip-hop dancers more time to show off their moves. Meanwhile, hip-hop dance was also emerging on the other side of the country on the West coast. In both areas of the country, hip-hop quickly became a popular form of street dancing.

How Has Hip-Hop Evolved?

West Coast hip-hop expanded on the popular frozen moves of the East coast, creating what is now widely known as popping and locking. Popping, created by dancer Boogaloo Sam, and locking, created by artist Don Cambellock, were inspired by the stiff, uncanny movements of robots. 

By the early 1990s, highly advertised, freestyle "dance-off" competitions and popular music videos brought hip-hop into the mainstream and created a market for hip-hop dance lessons in studios.

What Is Hip-Hop Like Today?

Today, East Coast and West Coast hip-hop have merged into one spirited culture of street dance. Hip-hop dance can be spotted everywhere in America, from social media to in-person flash mobs, and even all the way to the Superbowl. Now, many people enjoy hip-hop dance as a way to exercise, relax, and express themselves creatively. 

If your child is ready to start dance classes, contact Bender Performing Arts in Phoenix, AZ. They have offered professionally led classes and dance lessons for over 40 years. These seasoned instructors are committed to helping kids learn new dance forms and express themselves through the art of dance. For more information, visit their website or call (602) 971-9170.