Viral dance trends have a history of igniting global followings. Now, TikTok can make a new international dance phenomenon every week. Discover the tales behind each trend, from the classic “The Twist” to the latest TikTok craze.
The Twist
In the early 1960s, “The Twist” became more than just a dance; it was a cultural phenomenon. Originating from Chubby Checker’s hit song, people of all ages found themselves swaying their hips in sync. The simple yet captivating moves made it a party favorite, symbolizing the era’s spirit of freedom and fun. An online commenter, Jamie34, recalls, “My grandparents met twisting at a sock hop. It’s amazing how a dance can mark the start of a lifetime together.”
Macarena
The Macarena, with its catchy tune and repetitive hand movements, took over dance floors worldwide in the mid-1990s. Its simplicity allowed everyone, regardless of dance ability, to join in, making it a unifying global phenomenon. The dance became synonymous with celebration and joy, often the highlight of weddings and parties. Despite its repetitive nature, the Macarena remains a nostalgic symbol of ’90s culture.
Gangnam Style
Psy’s “Gangnam Style” erupted in 2012, becoming the first YouTube video to hit a billion views. Its quirky and humorous dance moves, coupled with the satirical edge of the song, made it an instant hit. The dance’s global appeal transcended language barriers, bringing people together in laughter and movement.
Dougie
Inspired by ’80s rap, the Dougie became the hip-hop dance trend of the 2000s. With its smooth sliding and casual arm movements, it was a showcase of coolness and swagger. Celebrities and athletes were seen ‘teaching’ the Dougie, cementing its status in pop culture. The dance remains a staple in clubs and parties, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Flossing
The Backpack Kid introduced flossing on Instagram in 2017 when he was a teenager, and it quickly became a viral sensation among children and teens worldwide. Its unique back-and-forth hip swinging and arm movements captured the imagination of a generation. Schools, playgrounds, and social media were awash, with kids and adults attempting to master the floss. As one parent noted on Facebook, “I’ve spent more time learning to floss with my kids than I’d like to admit!”
Renegade
Originating on TikTok, the Renegade involves intricate hand and arm movements set to a catchy beat. Created by a teenager, it became emblematic of the power of social media in spreading dance trends. As challenging as it is engaging, mastering the Renegade became a badge of honor.
The Moonwalk
Michael Jackson didn’t invent the Moonwalk, but he certainly perfected it and brought it into the mainstream. When he first glided backward during a performance of “Billie Jean,” the world was mesmerized. The Moonwalk became synonymous with Jackson’s innovative and influential style, a dance move that seemed to defy gravity. “Every time I see someone Moonwalk, it takes me right back to when I saw MJ do it live,” reminisces an online fan.
Whip/Nae Nae
The Whip and Nae Nae are simple moves that exploded in popularity thanks to the song “Watch Me” by Silento. The dance involves a staccato whip motion followed by a smooth sway, a combination that caught on like wildfire. It’s a dance that encourages individual flair and expression, making it a favorite among all ages.
Dabbing
Dabbing originated in the Atlanta hip-hop scene and quickly spread worldwide. Characterized by dropping one’s head into the crook of a bent arm, it became a popular gesture in sports, music, and beyond. The dab became a symbol of victory and coolness, often seen in celebratory moments. “Dabbing took over my school overnight; even the teachers were doing it!” shares a high school student on Reddit.
Harlem Shake
Beginning as a meme, the Harlem Shake videos featured one person dancing solo before cutting to a wild group dance fest. The unpredictable and chaotic nature of each video made it a viral sensation. People loved the creativity and humor involved, making their own versions in offices, homes, and public places.
Electric Slide
The Electric Slide is a line dance that became ubiquitous at weddings and parties. Set to Marcia Griffiths’ “Electric Boogie,” its 18-step sequence is easy to learn and fun to do in groups. It’s a dance that brings people together, young and old, in synchronized joy. “There’s nothing like the whole room doing the Electric Slide,” recounts wedding planner @ElegantEvents.
The Wobble
The Wobble is a line dance that encourages improvisation and interaction. With its catchy beat and repetitive moves, it quickly became a favorite at social gatherings. The dance creates a sense of community as everyone moves in sync, adding their own flair.
Tutting
Tutting is a dance that involves intricate angular movements, mimicking Egyptian hieroglyphs. Dancers use their hands and arms to create geometric shapes and patterns, showcasing precision and control. It’s a form of dance that’s as mesmerizing to watch as it is challenging to perform.
The Jerk
The Jerk, emerging from the New Boyz song, became a hit among the youth for its energetic and bouncy movements. It’s a dance that embodies freedom and rebellion, often performed in battles and competitions. The Jerk brought a new dynamism to dance, inspiring a wave of creativity.
Cupid Shuffle
The Cupid Shuffle is another line dance phenomenon known for its catchy chorus and easy-to-follow steps. It’s a dance that promotes participation and joy, often the highlight of gatherings. Whether at a wedding, family reunion, or club, when the Cupid Shuffle plays, everyone hits the floor.
Lean Back
The Lean Back involves a simple rocking motion, leaning back at the chorus, embodying the laid-back vibe of the song. It’s a dance that’s all about attitude and ease, making it popular in clubs and parties. While simple, it captures the essence of relaxation and cool. “Lean Back was the anthem of our summer; so many memories,” reminisces a clubgoer.
The Jive
The Jive, a lively and bouncy dance from the swing era, is characterized by its upbeat tempo and knee-lifting, foot-kicking actions. It’s a dance that requires energy and syncopation, often resulting in exhilarating performances. The Jive remains popular in dance competitions and retro parties, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Krumping
Krumping is an intense, expressive dance form originating from the streets of Los Angeles. It’s characterized by free, fast, and aggressive movements, serving as an emotional outlet for dancers. Krumping battles showcase individuality and raw energy, often reflecting personal stories and community struggles.
The Cha-Cha Slide
The Cha-Cha Slide is a party dance that involves following spoken instructions, making it accessible and fun for all ages. Its call-and-response nature turns it into a communal experience, bonding participants in rhythm and laughter. From “slide to the left” to “criss-cross,” each command brings a new wave of excitement. “No one can resist the Cha-Cha Slide; it’s the ultimate ice-breaker,” says event organizer @PartyPlannerPlus.
The Robot
The Robot is a dance that imitates the precise, mechanical movements of a robot. Originating in the 1960s and gaining popularity in the 70s with street performers, it’s a showcase of control and isolation. Dancers stun audiences with their ability to mimic machinery while adding a layer of artistic flair.
Voguing
Voguing is a stylized dance originating from the Harlem ballroom scene, characterized by model-like poses integrated with angular, linear, and rigid movements. It became mainstream in the 1990s, symbolizing empowerment and self-expression, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. The dance is a fierce display of identity and culture, often performed in competitions called balls.
