History of Brake/Break Dance
The history of breakdance takes us back to the
1970's. Breakdance is a dynamic dance style that is a major component of the
hip-hop culture. Breakdancing developed in the South Bronx of New York City
during the late 20th century, coinciding with the disco era.
Early
Break dancing
Breakdancing was born in
response to James Brown's dance moves on television to his song "Get on
the Good Foot." People tried to mimick Brown's moves alone in their living
rooms and together at parties. Clive Campbell, known as DJ Kool Herc, is
credited with helping the breakdancing movement evolve. Original breakdancing
moves consisted mainly of fancy footwork and body freezes, with less intricate
tricks such as head spinning. Dancers started adding smoother steps and body
movements, forming a true dance style. Breakdancing soon gained popularity in
disco and dance clubs.
Break dancing
Today
As breakdancing further evolved, dancers began
placing more emphasis on groundwork with stylized leg movements, commonly known
as "downrock." Soon, breakdancers were adding spectacular moves such
as handgliding, backspinning, windmilling, and headspinning: ground moves that
comprise breakdancing as we know it today.
Breakdance gained
worldwide popularity during the 1980's and 1990's. Breakdancers began to be
incorporated into movies and theater productions. Today, breakdancing and
hip-hop classes are taught in dance studios around the country.
