Behind the scenes of your favorite jaw-dropping hip-hop or K-pop choreography, a master choreographer imagined each move that brought that performance or viral music video to life.
Beholding the impressive skills of famous performers, these popular dance moves can feel so out of reach. But what if we told you that, with some help, you really can learn popular K-pop and hip-hop dance routines?
Classes at On One Studios will give you access to the knowledgeable dance instructors and learning opportunities you need to get there.
The Global Impact of Music and Dance
K-pop, hip-hop, jazz music, and dance have all made huge global impacts, including widespread popularity, cross-industry influence, cultural exchange, and artistic innovation. Hits by artists like Beyonce and Soulja Boy have inspired a passion for music and dance in entire generations of people.
Together, these three genres have shaped the global music and dance landscape, transcending borders and creating a significant impact on popular culture and artistic expression worldwide.
Jazz
Jazz music and dance have a rich history in African American culture, with a lasting impact on global music and dance scenes. Jazz has influenced many other music genres, and related dance styles, such as swing and tap, have become iconic and widely recognized.
Jazz music and dance have also served as a foundation for modern dance forms, celebrated for their creativity, improvisation, and expressive movements.
Hip hop
Hip-hop music and dance originated in African American and Latino communities in the United States, becoming a global phenomenon. The genre has significantly impacted popular culture, fashion, language, and dance styles worldwide.
Hip-hop has also served as a form of expression for social and political issues, inspiring diverse communities and artists to create and innovate in other art forms.
Kpop
Since Gangnam Style by Psy took over about ten years ago, K-pop, or Korean pop music, has gained massive popularity worldwide, with its catchy melodies, vibrant performances, and distinctive choreography.
Kpop has transcended cultural boundaries, significantly impacting global music and dance trends, and even influencing fashion, beauty, and entertainment industries.
K-pop’s explosion in popularity has also led to increased tourism to South Korea and has created opportunities for cultural exchange and collaborations between Korean artists and international artists.
A Master List of Dance Moves You Have to Learn
Let’s delve into the ultimate list of influential and iconic dance steps and point moves (signature dance moves). Every dance enthusiast should be familiar with these cultural staples and keep them in the back pocket of their repertoire.
But don’t be surprised by these moves’ massive popularity- some of them are pretty difficult to master. If you want to help to learn these dances flawlessly, think about signing up for dance classes.
The Moonwalk
![Michael Jackson Best MoonWalk Ever!! [HD]](https://i0.wp.com/i.ytimg.com/vi/b6pomaq30Gg/hqdefault.jpg?ssl=1)
Michael Jackson’s performances popularized the moonwalk, one of the most famous dance moves. In a gliding step, the dancer appears to be moving backward while stepping forward. The dancer keeps one foot flat while the other foot slides backward to create the gravity-defying illusion.
It requires precise footwork, body control, and coordination to achieve the signature gliding motion. The moonwalk is often used in hip-hop, pop, and funk dance styles.
Waacking
Waacking is a dance style that originated in clubs of Los Angeles during the 1970s disco era, particularly in the Black and Latino LGBTQ+ community. Waacking is often performed to disco or funk music, incorporating posing, storytelling, and theatrical elements. It has become a recognized dance style in the broader hip-hop and urban dance culture.
It is characterized by fast and expressive arm movements, sharp poses, and intricate footwork. The name “waacking” is derived from the dancer’s exaggerated arm movements, “whacking” the arms in various directions with precision and fluidity. The dance also involves hand gestures, poses, and facial expressions.
The Foxtrot
The foxtrot is a smooth ballroom dance that originated in the early 20th century in the United States. It’s all about smooth gliding movements, long strides, flowing style, and elegant posture.
The foxtrot features walking steps, chasses, and turns, while dancers move in a closed position with their bodies held close together. The foxtrot is typically danced to big bands or jazz music, and it is considered the first truly American couple dance.
Loco-Motion
The Loco-Motion dance move became popular in the 1960s with the release of the song “The Loco-Motion.” It has since been incorporated into line dancing, hip-hop, and freestyle dancing.
It’s a repetitive step/shuffle pattern where the dancer moves forward or backward in a linear or circular direction, imitating the movement of a train or a locomotive. Dancers may add turns, hops, or slides.
Gangnam Style
Perhaps the first and greatest example of K-pop’s global mainstream popularity, “Gangnam Style” by South Korean artist Psy was released in 2012. The dance move combines horse-riding-like movements, exaggerated arm gestures, and humorous facial expressions.
The Waltz
The Waltz is an elegant, classic ballroom dance that originated in 18th-century Europe. It is a smooth, flowing dance with a three-step pattern and distinct rise-and-fall movements.
Partners typically dance in a closed position, with the lead holding the follow’s right hand and placing his left hand on her back, while the follow places her left hand on the lead’s shoulder or arm. The dancers move in a circular or oval pattern around the dance floor three steps at a time.
Chasse
The chassé is a step used in ballet, jazz, ballroom dance, and more. The dancer glides or slides in a diagonal direction. The basic chassé step typically consists of three steps: a step to the side with one foot, followed by bringing the other foot to meet it, then taking another step with the first foot in the same direction.
The feet may be pointed or flexed, and the arms can be held in various positions depending on the dance style. The chassé is often used as a transitional step or as part of a larger dance sequence, and it can add fluidity and grace to a dancer’s movements.
The Dougie
The Dougie dance move is a popular hip-hop dance move from the 2010s that gained popularity through music videos and social media. It’s a combination of casual or relaxed swaying, popping, and gliding movements. The basic Dougie step is a sideways sway of the hips with shoulder pops, arm swings, or hand gestures.
Who Is Behind These Iconic Dance Moves?
Choreographers are the people who create and design dance sequences or routines for performances such as music videos, concerts, and theater productions. They conceptualize, plan, and organize the movement and dance elements of a performance, working closely with the artists or performers to bring their vision to life.
The process from selecting to performing choreographies typically involves several steps. Here’s an overview:
- Choreographer Selection: Artists or performers may choose a choreographer based on style, reputation, or previous work. Production companies or record labels may also hire choreographers to create dance routines for specific projects.
- Collaboration and Conceptualization: The choreographer works alongside the artist or performer to understand their artistic vision and the music’s mood, theme, or story. They may listen to the music, discuss ideas, and collaborate on the overall concept and aesthetic.
- Choreography Creation: The choreographer then begins creating the dance routine. They develop the movements, steps, formations, and transitions, considering the artist’s abilities, style, and skill level. They sometimes incorporate props, costumes, or other elements to enhance the visual impact.
- Rehearsals and Training: Once the choreography is finalized, performers begin learning and rehearsing the routine. Choreographers may provide instruction and guidance, demonstrate movements, helping the dancers perfect execution, timing, and expression. Rehearsals may be structured over a period of time to ensure that the routine is polished.
- Refinement and Iteration: Choreographers may continue refining and modifying the choreography during the rehearsal process, based on feedback from the artist or performers, to enhance the overall performance. They might adjust the movements or formations.
- Performance: After learning and polishing the choreography, artists perform it in front of an audience. Choreographers may be present during the performance to provide last-minute guidance.
Choreographers play a crucial role in bringing music performances’ visual and movement elements to life. Their creativity and expertise are critical to the overall artistic expression of the music.
Let’s acknowledge some famous choreographers and their dance styles:
Sean Bankhead
Choreographer Sean Bankhead has gained adulation for his work in the entertainment industry. He has choreographed for top music artists, including Beyoncé, Cardi B, and Normani, among others. Bankhead is known for his dynamic and innovative choreography, blending various dance styles, and has gained recognition for his talent and creativity.
He is best known for music videos like “Industry Baby” (Lil Nas X), “I’m Ready,” “Dancing with a Stranger,” (Sam Smith), and “Up” (Cardi B).
Parris Goebel
Parris Goebel is a renowned New Zealand choreographer and dancer known for her groundbreaking urban dance and hip-hop work. She founded The Palace Dance Studio, choreographing for top music artists and winning awards.
She is best known for music videos like “What Do You Mean?” (Justin Bieber), “Touch” (Little Mix), “Level Up” (Ciara), and “How Do You Sleep?” (Sam Smith). Goebel has also worked with Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna (Savage X Fenty Show).
JaQuel Knight
JaQuel Knight is known for his innovative work in the field of dance. He has choreographed for top music artists, including Britney Spears, Kelly Rowland, Brandy, and Beyoncé. Knight is known for his iconic routines, such as “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” “Drunk in Love,” “Diva,” and “Formation.”
Learn and Perfect Your Dance Moves with the Help of Professional Choreographers
When you’re deciding on the perfect dance class for you, research the available choreographers based on what styles you’re most passionate about- hip-hop, K-pop, contemporary dance, and more. Look for studios featuring a variety of respected choreographers known for having the attitude of a teacher for dancers at all levels.
That way, you can feel supported and empowered, never intimidated. The right choreographer for you will help and encourage you as you progress from the basic dance steps to more advanced choreographies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dance Moves
What are some old 2010 dances?
Nostalgic 2010’s dances include the Dougie, Whip/Nae Nae, Harlem Shake, Gangnam Style, the Dab, and Flossing.
What are the 9 most popular hip-hop dance styles?
Breaking, Popping, Locking, Krumping, Tutting, Waving, Jerkin’, Litefeet, and Memphis Jookin’ are examples of popular hip-hop dance styles.
What are some 90’s hip hop dances?
Running Man, Cabbage Patch, and the Worm are some iconic ‘90s hip-hop dances.
What dances are from the 80s?
Some famous ‘80s dances are the Moonwalk, the Electric Boogie/Slide, and the Robot.
What dances were popular in the 2000s?
Here are some dances that characterized the 2000s: Crank That (Soulja Boy), Lean Back (Terror Squad), Walk it Out (Unk), and Pop, Lock & Drop It (Huey).
What’s your favorite iconic dance move or choreography?
What’s that famous dance move or choreography that grabbed your attention the moment you saw it and stuck in your mind? The Moonwalk, Body Roll, the Dougie, or moves from classic styles? Have you ever tried to execute it yourself?
If you’ve been inspired by a popular dance move, you can learn the skills you need to perfect it by joining a fun and supportive dance class. All are welcome, from the least experienced beginners to seasoned dancers looking to challenge themselves.