11.3 Hip-Hop Dance in Popular Culture

Hip-hop dance exploded in popularity thanks to media exposure. Music videos, movies, and TV shows brought the energy and creativity of hip-hop dance to mainstream audiences, inspiring people to learn and engage with the style.

Iconic performances like Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and the Jabbawockeez on "America's Best Dance Crew" left a lasting impact. These showcases sparked trends, influenced pop culture, and drove interest in hip-hop dance across generations and communities.

The Influence of Media on Hip-Hop Dance Popularity

Media's role in hip-hop dance popularity

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• Music videos
  • Provide visual representation of hip-hop dance styles showcasing choreography and routines (Michael Jackson's "Thriller", MC Hammer's "U Can't Touch This")
  • Increase exposure and accessibility to a wider audience beyond the original hip-hop community
• Movies
  • Feature hip-hop dance in storylines and performances introducing the style to mainstream audiences (Breakin', Step Up franchise)
  • Inspire viewers to learn and engage with hip-hop dance by showcasing its energy, creativity, and cultural significance
• Television
  • Include hip-hop dance in various shows and competitions highlighting the skill and artistry of dancers (America's Best Dance Crew, So You Think You Can Dance)
  • Contribute to the normalization of hip-hop dance in popular culture by presenting it alongside other established dance styles

Impact of iconic hip-hop performances

• Memorable performances
  • Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and "Beat It" music videos popularized the moonwalk and other signature moves
  • MC Hammer's "U Can't Touch This" music video and live performances showcased high-energy choreography and the iconic "Hammer dance"
  • The Jabbawockeez's performances on "America's Best Dance Crew" demonstrated the power of synchronization and storytelling through dance
• Influence on popular culture
  • Inspire imitation and adaptation of dance moves leading to the spread of hip-hop dance across generations and communities
  • Increase interest in learning hip-hop dance as people seek to emulate their favorite performers and routines
  • Contribute to the development of new dance trends and styles as dancers build upon and innovate existing techniques

Representation and Appropriation of Hip-Hop Dance

Representation of hip-hop dance in media

• Authentic portrayal of hip-hop dance culture and its roots honoring the African American and Latino origins of the style (documentaries like "The Freshest Kids", "Rize")
• Inclusion of diverse hip-hop dance styles and practitioners showcasing the range and depth of the art form (b-boying/b-girling, locking, popping, krumping)
• Positive representation of hip-hop dance as a legitimate art form worthy of respect and appreciation
• Misrepresentation or oversimplification of hip-hop dance reducing it to stereotypes or caricatures (commercials, parody videos)
• Exploitation of hip-hop dance for commercial gain without proper acknowledgment or compensation for dancers and choreographers
• Lack of acknowledgment or respect for the cultural origins of hip-hop dance leading to cultural appropriation and erasure

Hip-hop dance influence on culture

• Fashion
  • Baggy and oversized clothing styles associated with the comfort and freedom of movement needed for hip-hop dance
  • Sneaker culture and the popularity of dance-specific footwear (Adidas, Nike, Puma) designed for support and style
  • Accessories such as hats, chains, and bandanas that complement the overall aesthetic of hip-hop fashion
• Language
  • Incorporation of hip-hop terminology and slang into mainstream vocabulary (fresh, dope, chill)
  • Use of rap lyrics and references in everyday conversation as a way to express oneself and connect with others
  • Influence on the development of new words and phrases that reflect the creativity and innovation of hip-hop culture
• Other aspects
  • Graffiti art and street art inspired by the visual elements of hip-hop culture and often used as backdrops for dance performances
  • Breakdancing and its influence on other dance styles leading to the creation of new hybrid forms (break-locking, break-waacking)
  • The rise of hip-hop dance competitions and battles providing a platform for dancers to showcase their skills and earn recognition (Red Bull BC One, Juste Debout)