American Dance: An Exploration of the World and Yourself
I have a plethora of hobbies, but dance will always be my true love and passion. I love immersing myself into the music and freely moving my body to the beat of the song. Sometimes I’ll even get a high euphoric feeling when I go out social dancing or perform.
This is the third edition of ”Dance: An Exploration of the World and Yourself” which is a series of articles and videos to inspire and educate you on the amazing dance genres that exist!
Introduction to American Dancing
My American and New York roots run deep, shaping my musical upbringing with a diverse range of artists. From the legendary hip hop rapper Biggie and the soulful jazz singer Billy Holiday to the smooth R&B vibes of Usher to the angelic gospel icon of Kirk Franklin, their artistry resonated with me from a young age. Even more, my parents were connected to iconic figures in the hip hop world, running in the same circles as Salt n Peppa. (I've even been to Salt's house!) The remarkable musical contributions of African Americans have been ingrained in my life, making dancing to their beats a common and natural occurrence at every BBQ. 🎵💃🏽🕺🏽🇺🇸
Different Genres of American Dances
HIP HOP
• Hailing from the Boogie Down Bronx, hip hop stands as the epitome of African American culture. What’s a cookout or block party without hip hop music? 🥳 🗽
• Hip hop's unique power lies in its ability to tell compelling stories through raw and authentic lyrics, painting vivid pictures of life experiences and societal struggles that resonate deeply with listeners. 🎤
• The beat of hip hop is more than just music; it's a rhythmic force that speaks to your soul, evoking emotions and driving an irresistible urge to move and groove. It’s a trendsetter in every definition of the world. 🎵💫
• While I more frequently dance to Latin music these days, hip hop will forever be my roots, and I can't help but add a touch of hip-hop flare to all the genres I dance. 🎶💃🏽🕺🏽
Video Description: Performing my choregraphy to “Formation”
HEELS
GOSPEL
• Gospel music, a powerful force of African American Christian heritage, has deep roots tracing back to the conversion of enslaved Africans to Christianity. This genre has a rich history of soul-stirring Negro Spirituals, speaking to their struggles, faith, and resilience. ✊🏽
• When it comes to slow gospel beats, it's all about interpretative praise dance stealing the spotlight! Growing up in a Southern Baptist church, my first dance team was the praise dance team. There's a whole different level of connection when you're dancing for a higher power, something that goes beyond dancing just for yourself. 🎵💃🏽🕊️
• For energetic gospel music, get ready to feel the Holy Spirit coursing through your veins because it demands some serious jumping up and down with joy! It's a divine connection that sets your soul on fire, leaving you with an uplifting dance experience you'll never forget. 🎵💃🏽🕺🏽🔥
Video Description: A praise dance team performing at church.
JAZZ
• Jazz, a soulful and improvisational genre, originated in New Orleans within African American communities, evolving into a universal language of musical freedom that beckons dancers to move to its mesmerizing rhythms. 🎺
• With its rich harmonies and expressive melodies, jazz creates an enchanting atmosphere for dancers, allowing them to interpret and express themselves freely through their movements. 🎶 🎷
• Dancing to jazz music becomes a captivating and intimate experience, where the synergy between the music and the dancer's interpretation ignites a unique and powerful connection to the art form. 💃🏽🕺🏽
Video Description: A couple doing the Charleston which is a social jazz dance.
Other “Dance: Exploration of the World and Yourself” Articles
• Latin Dance: An Exploration of the World and Yourself
• West Indian Caribbean Dance: An Exploration of the World and Yourself
