The History of Hip Hop
Hip hop has been one of the most influential types of dance within the dance world. Its history began during the late 1960s and 1970s, rooted in African-inspired movements. It first emerged in New York City, initially credited to a young 12-year-old Jamaican, Dj Kool Herc, who moved to Brooklyn at a young age and wanted to merge the movements from Jamaica into the rising new genre of music, Hip hop and rap. He created unique beats that allowed dancers to express themselves in new ways, and encouraged them to try new movements. Eventually, as years went on, Hip Hop dancing expanded from New York all the way to California. It was first shown on air when Don Campbell accidentally created a new famous dance move called “Locking”. After this, he went on to perform on a show called “soul train,” which brought significant attention to the new style, along with the representation of people of color within the arts.
In the early 1970s, Hip hop expanded and became a major movement in the Bronx, bringing together communities of young African Americans and Latinos. The blend of different cultures allowed for a new way of expression about different topics, such as social issues of the times.
Hip Hop over the years has been used as well as a way to tell stories, and express political and social ideas, through its roots of African and Caribbean traditions. It created a new way for dancers of color to communicate and express messages with those around them who were facing similar struggles due to their identities. Hip hop has played a significant role in the people of color community. It has allowed for community development through new spaces such as dance studios and mentorship opportunities because of dance. Dance studios have become places where students can go to have a strong sense of belonging and community despite the outside world and as well it creates a space for creativity where anyone can express themselves and not feel judged.
In the modern world, Hip hop has become a transformative way for many people of color and has provided numerous opportunities and platforms of influence. For example, famous choreographers such as Fatima Robinson, who has worked with renowned artists such as Michael Jackson and Aaliyah. She has paved the way for many dancers of color to become more confident and create significant change in the Hip hop industry. Another example of how Hip hop has affected the modern world is the creation of large international competitions such as the World Hip Hop Dance Championship, which brings together dancers from all over the world with different backgrounds to celebrate dance. This has allowed for a significant amount of cultural exchange and the ability to appreciate different and diverse dance traditions from around the globe.
Hip hop dance has created a large influence on dancers around the world, creating a community and providing numerous opportunities for people of color. With its rich history, it continues to inspire and unite diverse communities around the world through a common love for dance.
"Through dance, we create, communicate, and connect. Hip Hop dance is more than just movement; it's a way of life, a form of expression, and a celebration of culture and identity."
- Unknown
