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Dance is an integral part of human culture, it brings people together, sets trends, and creates memorable moments.
Over the years, certain dance moves have not only become popular, but have also defined the culture of their times.
These moves have gone beyond the dance floor to influence fashion, music, and even language.
Let’s dive in and explore these iconic moves that have left an indelible mark on pop culture.
1. The Moonwalk – Michael Jackson
No list of dance moves that have defined pop culture would be complete without Michael Jackson’s Moonwalk.
First showcased by the King of Pop during a performance of Billie Jean in 1983, this move gave the illusion of walking forwards while moving backwards.
The Moonwalk quickly became Jackson’s signature move, and it has been attempted by millions of fans around the world.
2. The Macarena – Los Del Rio
The 90s gave us many things, and one of the most memorable was the Macarena. This catchy dance was paired with a Spanish pop song by Los Del Rio and became a worldwide phenomenon.
The dance is straightforward and repetitive, making it easy for anyone to join in. To this day, the Macarena is a staple at parties and weddings.
3. Gangnam Style – Psy
In 2012, the world was introduced to Gangnam Style. This energetic dance move, created by South Korean musician Psy, became a global sensation, largely thanks to the viral music video.
The horse-riding dance, as it’s often referred to, is playful and unique, and it certainly left a mark on pop culture.
4. The Floss – Backpack Kid
The new age of viral dances was ushered in with the Floss. This dance move was popularized by the Backpack Kid during a performance with Katy Perry on Saturday Night Live.
The Floss involves a repeated left-right swinging of the hips with the opposite arm swinging behind the body.
It became so popular that it was featured in the video game Fortnite, further cementing its place in pop culture.
5. The Dab – Migos
The Dab was popularized by the hip-hop group Migos and quickly became a worldwide trend.
The dance move consists of dropping the head into the bent crook of a slanted, upwardly angled arm while raising the opposite arm in a parallel direction.
The Dab has been performed by celebrities, athletes, and politicians, demonstrating its wide-reaching influence. Dance moves have the power to bring people together, spark joy, and even start a global trend.
These five dances have not only done that but have also shaped pop culture in their respective eras. As we continue to dance our way through the 21st century, who knows what moves will define the culture of tomorrow?
We encourage you to share this article on your social media platforms and spread the joy of dance. Be sure to check out our other rankings for more insights into pop culture. Happy dancing!
