Groovy Moves: The Ultimate Guide to Dances in the 70's

Alright, groovy cats and far out dance enthusiasts, buckle up as we take a time machine back to the disco decade – the 1970's! This wasn't just an era of bell-bottoms and afros; it was a time when people got down and boogie-wondered like there's no tomorrow. So, let's dive into the funky world of 70's dances and learn some far out moves that'll make you the life of any party! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and dances in the 70's.

The Hustle: The King of 70's Dances

The Hustle was the ultimate dance craze of the 70's. This energetic and fun line dance was a symbol of the disco era. It started in New York City's Latinx communities and quickly spread to dance floors across the country. The Hustle was all about fast-paced footwork, synchronized steps, and showing off your best moves.

Here's a quick breakdown of the basic Hustle steps:

1. 1. Basic Step: Start with your feet together, then step forward with your right foot, followed by your left. Repeat this, alternating feet.
2. 2. Cross-Over Step: Step your right foot across to the left, then bring your left foot to meet it.
3. 3. Kick Ball Change: Kick your right foot out to the side, then bring it back in and change weight to your left foot.

The Bus Stop: A Funky Twist

The Bus Stop was another popular dance in the 70's. It was created by dance instructor and choreographer, Napoleon "Nap" Coleman. This dance involved a series of quick and energetic steps, followed by a brief pause – like waiting for a bus, hence the name.

To master the Bus Stop, follow these steps:

1. 1. Start by stepping to the right with your right foot, then pause.
2. 2. Bring your left foot to meet your right, then step to the left with your left foot, pausing again.
3. 3. Repeat these steps, alternating feet, while adding some snaps and claps to the beat.

The Bump: A Sensual Disco Move

The Bump was a sensual and suggestive dance that was all the rage in the 70's. It involved partners grinding against each other, moving to the beat of the music. This dance was a symbol of the sexual liberation of the time and was often performed to slow, sensual disco tunes.

Here's how to do the Bump:

1. 1. Face your partner, with your bodies close together.
2. 2. Move your hips in a circular motion, grinding against your partner.
3. 3. Add some arm movements and turns to keep things interesting.

The YMCA: A Dance for Everyone

The YMCA dance might not have originated in the 70's, but it certainly became a staple of the decade. This simple and fun dance was created by the Village People, a disco group known for their campy, gay-themed lyrics and music. The YMCA dance involved spelling out "Y-M-C-A" using your arms and body.

To do the YMCA dance:

1. 1. Start by making a "Y" with your arms over your head.
2. 2. Bring your arms down to your sides to make an "M".
3. 3. Cross your arms in front of you to make a "C".
4. 4. Finally, bring your arms up to your shoulders to make an "A".

The Disco Inferno: A Dance for the Bold

The Disco Inferno was a high-energy, acrobatic dance that was popularized by the movie "Saturday Night Fever". This dance involved a series of flips, twists, and spins, often performed on a mirrored dance floor to add to the spectacle.

Here's a simplified version of the Disco Inferno:

1. 1. Start by doing a spin on the ball of your foot.
2. 2. Kick your leg out to the side, then bring it back in and jump to the other side.
3. 3. Repeat these steps, alternating legs, while adding some arm movements and twists.

The 70's Dance Scene: A Melting Pot of Culture

The 70's dance scene was a melting pot of cultures, with dances like the Hustle and the Bus Stop drawing inspiration from Latinx communities. The decade also saw the rise of breakdancing, which originated in African American and Latino communities. This energetic and acrobatic dance involved a series of freezes, power moves, and downrock.

Bringing the 70's Dance Scene to Life Today

So, there you have it, groovy cats! A whirlwind tour of the far out world of 70's dances. Whether you're a disco diva or a breakdancing king, there's a dance from the 70's that's perfect for you. So, put on your bell-bottoms and platform shoes, and let's get this groovy party started!

Here are some tips to help you bring the 70's dance scene to life today:

1. 1. Find a partner: Many 70's dances are partner dances, so find a groovy partner to dance with.
2. 2. Listen to the music: The 70's was all about feeling the music. So, put on some disco tunes and let the beat guide you.
3. 3. Practice: Like any dance, the more you practice, the better you'll get. So, get out there and keep dancing!

So, far out folks, that's a wrap on the ultimate guide to dances in the 70's. Whether you're a seasoned disco diva or a newbie to the world of 70's dances, there's something here for everyone. So, get out there and start dancing like there's no tomorrow! Stay groovy, far out cats!