Since the era of slavery, gathering together to sing and move hips and feet to the beat of the music of the rhythm of clapping hands has been an act of rebellion and freedom. Black dance, once deemed unappealing, has grown to become an art form that is shared worldwide. However, this international sharing of Black dances has made the art form admired and often imitated. In order to honor and preserve black art, here are 11 dances that represent joy, creativity, and innovation. One of the original African American dances is the Juba dance, also called the Hambone dance. It was a dance that started as a rebellion.
Lyrics and music express everyday life experiences, often reflecting themes of hardship, from racism and poverty to personal relationships. Music and movement for African Americans during enslavement was often limited to activities such as Christian prayer meetings, work chants, and entertainment for plantation owners. After emancipation, African Americans gradually had more freedom to gather, play music, and dance on their own. Field hands in the South socialized in juke joints, small shacks where beer and liquor were sold, one or two local musicians played, and people danced. African Americans danced—and continue to dance—on front porches and street corners, and in homes, back rooms of restaurants, community centers, and ballrooms.
Dance is more than the pirouette of a ballet dancer and the fast-footed rhythm of tap. Each movement has a history, each angle wordlessly expresses an emotion, and a whole story can be embodied in a single step. Their work raises social issues with their choreography, strengthens community through their programming, and uses history as a source of inspiration. Martin Luther King Jr. The story of black dance is the story of black history and culture.