Dance has always been a reflection of music trends and technology of its time. From the moonwalk in the 1980s to the viral TikTok dances of today, popular dance moves have evolved in fascinating ways. Let’s take a look at how these iconic moves have changed over the years.
The 1980s: The Moonwalk
In the 1980s, Michael Jackson introduced the world to the Moonwalk. This mesmerizing move made it appear as though he was gliding across the floor while moving backward. The Moonwalk became one of the most iconic moves in dance history, representing Michael Jackson’s influence not only on music but also on the culture of the ‘80s. The move was a game-changer, and its impact is still felt today.
The 1990s: The Macarena
The 90s also saw the global sensation of The Macarena, a line dance to the catchy song by Los del Río, it took over every party from 1995 and onwards. With its easy-to-follow arm and hip movements, it was a dance that brought everyone, young and old, together on the dance floor. The Macarena was simple, catchy, and universally loved, becoming a cultural moment in itself.
The 2000s: The Crank That (Soulja Boy) & The Stanky Leg
The early 2000s saw the rise of internet culture, and with it, a new wave of viral dances. The Crank That (Soulja Boy) became a huge hit in 2007, with its signature arm movements and “Superman” pose. Soon after, the Stanky Leg became popular, with its exaggerated leg movements. These dances were made even more popular by social media, allowing people across the globe to learn and share
The 2010s: The Dougie & The Floss
In the 2010s, hip-hop and social media continued to influence dance culture. The Dougie, a move inspired by the song “Teach Me How to Dougie” by Cali Swag District, featured swaying movements with the hands. Then, came The Floss, which involves swinging your hips and arms in a side-to-side motion while simultaneously swinging your arms back and forth. The Floss became a viral sensation thanks to social media platforms like Vine and Instagram.
The 2020s: TikTok Dances
In the 2020s, TikTok has become the center of viral dance trends, and there’s a new dance trend almost every week. Savage Love by Jawsh 685 and Jason Derulo, the Renegade dance, and the Say So dance are just some examples of the hundreds of viral routines. TikTok has made dancing more easier than ever, with anyone able to participate in viral trends and share their own take with the world.
From the Moonwalk to TikTok dances, the evolution of popular dance moves has mirrored the changing times, music, and technology. Every decade has brought its own flavor of movement. As we move forward, one thing remains constant: dance will always be a strong form of self-expression and connecting with people. What do you think would be the next dance trend?
