Dance Styles

Breaking

Break, also known as breaking or B-boying, originated in the 1970s in New York City, USA. It was a form of dance that emerged from the hip-hop culture and was heavily influenced by a variety of other dance styles, including salsa, capoeira, and martial arts. Breakdance was developed by young African-American and Latino dancers who would perform in the streets, in clubs, and at block parties. The dance style quickly gained popularity, and by the late 1970s, it had spread to other cities in the United States, as well as to other countries.

The early pioneers of breakdance included DJ Kool Herc, who is credited with creating the breakbeat, and Grandmaster Flash, who developed the technique of using two turntables and a mixer to create a continuous flow of music. Other influential figures in the early days of breakdance included Afrika Bambaataa, who helped to popularize the dance style through his music and his involvement in hip-hop culture. The dance itself is characterized by a series of acrobatic moves, such as spins, flips, and freezes, as well as footwork and body movements. It is a highly athletic form of dance that requires strength, agility, and balance, as well as creativity and musicality.

Break continued to evolve and develop throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with new styles and moves being added to the dance. It also became a global phenomenon, with breakdance competitions and events being held around the world. Today, breakdance remains a popular dance style, with a vibrant community of dancers and enthusiasts around the world. In 2024, breakdance will make its debut as an Olympic sport in the Summer Olympics in Paris, France.