Quick Scoop

Hip hop dance is a street-born dance style that grew out of Black and Latino communities in New York City in the 1970s, and it is known for rhythm, individuality, and improvisation.

What it is

Hip hop dance is not just one move or one look. It is a broad style that includes breaking, locking, popping, krumping, and freestyle movement, often performed to hip hop music.

Core traits

  • Expressive: Dancers often use it to show personality and emotion.
  • Improvisational: Freestyle and creativity are central to the style.
  • Cultural: It is part of the larger hip hop culture, alongside DJing, MCing, and graffiti.

Where it comes from

Hip hop dance emerged in the 1970s in New York City and developed from the energy of street and club scenes into a global dance form.

In simple terms

If you want the shortest definition: hip hop dance is a lively, creative dance style built around musical rhythm, personal expression, and moves that came from hip hop culture.

TL;DR

Hip hop dance is a dynamic street dance style from 1970s New York that includes styles like breaking, popping, and locking, and it emphasizes creativity and self-expression.