What Was Dance Like In The 1960S

The Swinging Sixties

The 1960s marked a significant cultural shift, and dance was an integral part of this revolution. The younger generation rebelled against the conservative values of the previous decade, embracing a new sense of freedom and expression. Dance became a powerful form of self-expression, reflecting the changing social and political landscape of the time.

The Twist

One of the most iconic dances of the 1960s was "The Twist." Popularized by Chubby Checker, this dance involved rotating the hips in a twisting motion. It was a simple yet energetic dance that captured the spirit of the era. The Twist became a sensation and was danced in clubs, parties, and even on television.

The Mashed Potato

Another popular dance of the 1960s was "The Mashed Potato." Inspired by the motions of peeling potatoes, this dance involved bending the knees and moving the feet in a stomping motion. It was a fun and energetic dance that showcased the creativity and playfulness of the era.

The Pony

"The Pony" was another dance that gained popularity in the 1960s. It involved hopping on one foot while kicking the other leg forward and backward. The Pony was often accompanied by catchy songs and became a favorite dance move at parties and gatherings.

The Influence of Motown

During the 1960s, Motown music had a significant influence on dance trends. Artists like The Supremes, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye created music that was impossible to resist moving to. The Motown sound inspired dances like "The Jerk," "The Watusi," and "The Monkey," which became popular in dance clubs and social gatherings.

The Jerk

"The Jerk" was a dance that involved jerking movements of the arms and legs. It was a lively and high-energy dance that perfectly matched the upbeat tempo of Motown songs. The Jerk became a sensation and was performed by both teenagers and adults.

The Watusi

"The Watusi" was a dance that originated in Africa and gained popularity in the 1960s. It involved moving the hips in a circular motion while twisting the arms. The Watusi was often danced in pairs and added a touch of exoticism to the dance floors.

The Monkey

"The Monkey" was a dance that involved mimicking the movements of a monkey. It incorporated playful and exaggerated gestures, making it a fun and entertaining dance to watch and participate in. The Monkey dance was often accompanied by songs with catchy lyrics and infectious rhythms.

The Impact of Rock and Roll

Rock and roll music also played a significant role in shaping dance trends in the 1960s. Bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Beach Boys created music that inspired a new generation of dancers.

The Swim

"The Swim" was a dance that imitated the motions of swimming. It involved alternating arm movements and kicking legs in a way that mimicked swimming strokes. The Swim became popular in beach towns and was often danced at parties and in dance clubs.

The Hitchhike

"The Hitchhike" was a dance that involved pretending to hitchhike while moving to the rhythm of the music. It was a simple yet catchy dance that became a favorite among teenagers and young adults. The Hitchhike was often danced in a line, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie on the dance floor.

In conclusion, dance in the 1960s was a vibrant expression of the changing times. From the energetic and lively moves of "The Twist" and "The Mashed Potato" to the soulful and rhythmic dances inspired by Motown and rock and roll, the dance floors of the 1960s were filled with movement, creativity, and a sense of rebellion. These dances not only entertained but also served as a form of social and cultural expression, reflecting the spirit of the era and leaving a lasting impact on dance trends for years to come.