I. What is the Harlem Shake?
The Harlem Shake is a dance move that originated in Harlem, New York City, in the early 1980s. It is characterized by a jerky, shoulder-shaking movement that is often accompanied by a hip thrust. The dance move gained widespread popularity in the early 2000s, thanks to a series of viral videos that featured people performing the Harlem Shake in various settings.
II. Origins of the Harlem Shake
The Harlem Shake has its roots in the hip-hop and rap music scenes of Harlem, where dancers would perform the move at parties and clubs. The dance move was popularized by artists such as P. Diddy and Mase, who incorporated it into their music videos and live performances.
The Harlem Shake gained mainstream attention in 2013, when a DJ and producer named Baauer released a song titled “Harlem Shake.” The song featured a heavy bassline and a catchy hook, which made it a hit on the dance music charts. The accompanying music video featured a group of people performing the Harlem Shake in various costumes and settings, which helped to further popularize the dance move.
III. Key Characteristics of the Harlem Shake
The Harlem Shake is characterized by its jerky, shoulder-shaking movement, which is often accompanied by a hip thrust. Dancers typically start by standing still and then suddenly start moving their shoulders and hips in a rapid, erratic manner. The dance move is often performed in groups, with each dancer adding their own unique flair to the movement.
One of the key characteristics of the Harlem Shake is its improvisational nature. Dancers are encouraged to let loose and express themselves freely, which has led to a wide variety of interpretations of the dance move. Some dancers incorporate props or costumes into their performances, while others focus on intricate footwork or acrobatic stunts.
IV. Popularity and Viral Trend
The Harlem Shake became a viral sensation in 2013, thanks to a series of videos that featured people performing the dance move in unexpected locations. The trend started on YouTube, where a group of teenagers uploaded a video of themselves performing the Harlem Shake in their school cafeteria. The video quickly went viral, inspiring countless imitators to create their own versions of the dance.
The Harlem Shake trend spread like wildfire, with videos popping up on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Celebrities and brands also got in on the action, creating their own Harlem Shake videos to capitalize on the trend. The dance move became so popular that it was even featured in commercials and television shows.
V. Impact and Influence on Dance Culture
The Harlem Shake had a significant impact on dance culture, inspiring a new generation of dancers to experiment with different styles and movements. The dance move helped to break down barriers between different dance genres, as dancers from all backgrounds came together to perform the Harlem Shake in a spirit of unity and creativity.
The Harlem Shake also helped to bring attention to the rich history of dance in Harlem, which has long been a hub for African-American culture and creativity. The dance move drew inspiration from traditional African dance styles, as well as modern hip-hop and street dance movements. By incorporating these influences into a contemporary dance craze, the Harlem Shake helped to celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of Harlem’s dance scene.
VI. Controversies and Criticisms
Despite its popularity, the Harlem Shake has faced its fair share of controversies and criticisms. Some people have accused the dance move of cultural appropriation, arguing that it appropriates and commodifies African-American dance traditions for mainstream consumption. Others have criticized the Harlem Shake for its lack of substance and artistic merit, arguing that it is a shallow and gimmicky dance craze.
In response to these criticisms, some dancers and choreographers have sought to reclaim the Harlem Shake as a legitimate art form. They have created new interpretations of the dance move that incorporate elements of traditional African dance and hip-hop culture, while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of movement and expression.
Overall, the Harlem Shake remains a divisive and polarizing dance craze, with supporters praising its energy and creativity, while detractors dismiss it as a passing fad. Regardless of where one stands on the issue, it is clear that the Harlem Shake has left a lasting impact on dance culture and will continue to be remembered as a defining moment in the history of dance.