Breakin'

Definition

Breakin', also known as breakdancing, is a dynamic style of street dance that originated in the South Bronx during the early 1970s. This dance form is characterized by its athletic moves, intricate footwork, and acrobatic spins, often performed to hip-hop music. It has become a vital element of hip-hop culture and has influenced various other dance styles and popular media.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Breakin' emerged as a response to the socio-economic conditions of the South Bronx, allowing young people to express themselves creatively and find community through dance.
2. The foundational elements of breakin' include toprock, downrock, power moves, and freezes, each contributing to the complexity and visual appeal of the dance.
3. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, breakin' gained significant exposure through media outlets, including movies like 'Flashdance' and television shows, bringing it into mainstream culture.
4. Competitions known as 'battles' are central to breakin', where dancers showcase their skills against one another in a judged format that emphasizes creativity and technical ability.
5. Breakin' has continued to evolve over the decades, incorporating elements from various dance styles and leading to its recognition as an official sport in events like the Olympics.

Review Questions

• How did breakin' reflect the socio-economic conditions of the South Bronx when it first emerged?
  • Breakin' originated in the South Bronx as a creative outlet for young people facing socio-economic challenges. It provided a way for individuals to express themselves artistically while fostering a sense of community among dancers. The dance style became a form of resistance against societal issues, allowing participants to reclaim their identity and space in a culturally rich but economically deprived environment.
• Discuss how breakin' incorporates elements from other dance styles and what impact this has on its evolution.
  • Breakin' has continually absorbed influences from various dance forms like popping and locking, which contribute to its versatility and evolving nature. This fusion allows dancers to express their individuality while pushing the boundaries of traditional breakin'. As new styles emerge and gain popularity, they create a dynamic exchange within hip-hop culture that shapes how breakin' is practiced today.
• Evaluate the significance of competitions and battles in breakin' culture and their role in shaping the community.
  • Competitions and battles are crucial to breakin' culture as they provide platforms for dancers to showcase their skills and creativity. These events foster camaraderie within the community while simultaneously encouraging individual expression. The competitive aspect not only motivates dancers to innovate but also helps establish a hierarchy within the art form, contributing to its ongoing evolution and cultural significance in the broader hip-hop landscape.

Related terms

B-boying: The original term for breakdancing, referring specifically to the male dancers who perform this style; B-girls are female dancers who participate in breakin'.

Popping: A street dance that involves quickly contracting and relaxing muscles to create a jerking effect in the dancer's body, often used in conjunction with breakin' for added flair.

Locking: A funk dance style that involves freezing in place or 'locking' at specific moments while performing rhythmic movements, commonly associated with hip-hop and breakin'.