18 Classic Dance Moves from the 90s

The 90s were a time when dance floors were packed with people showing off moves that would go down in history. From hip-hop to pop, the dance styles of this decade were full of energy, creativity, and fun. These moves didn’t just stay in the clubs—they became part of pop culture, inspiring everything from music videos to school dances. Let’s revisit 18 of the most iconic dance moves from the 90s that got everyone on their feet.

The Macarena

The Macarena, a dance craze that swept the globe, originated from a Spanish pop song by Los del Río. This simple, four-beat pattern became famous for its catchy rhythm and easy-to-follow hand movements. The dance’s universal appeal made it a staple at parties and gatherings, and even today, it’s a go-to move for evoking 90s nostalgia.

The Running Man

The Running Man, a hip hop dance move that mimics a stationary runner, was popularized in the late 80s and continued its reign into the 90s. It involves a hopping step that creates the illusion of running on the spot. This dance is often seen in 90s-themed events and has been revived in various forms on social media platforms.

Vogueing

Made famous by Madonna’s 1990 hit “Vogue,” this dance style involves striking a series of poses inspired by model poses and old Hollywood glamour. Vogueing is characterized by angular, linear, and rigid arm, leg, and body movements. This style has endured, evolving over the years, and is still a popular element in modern dance.

The Tootsee Roll

The Tootsee Roll, named after the 1994 song by 69 Boyz, became an instant dance floor favorite. This hip hop dance involves a series of pelvic thrusts and leg movements. It’s often referenced in pop culture and continues to be a favorite in dance clubs and parties.

The Carlton Dance

Popularized by Alfonso Ribeiro’s character Carlton on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” this quirky and exaggerated dance is characterized by swinging arms and a swaying hip movement. It’s a playful, feel-good dance that continues to be a symbol of the 90s and is frequently imitated for its comedic and nostalgic value.

The Hammer Dance

Named after MC Hammer, this dance move became synonymous with the rapper’s style, especially in his “U Can’t Touch This” music video. It involves shuffling side to side in a very specific way, often while wearing Hammer pants. This dance is still a fun throwback at parties and nostalgic events.

The Butterfly

Originating from the song “Tootsie Roll,” the Butterfly was another 90s dance craze. It involves crossing your legs at the calves and swaying your hips from side to side, creating a butterfly-like movement. This move is often seen in throwback dance routines and continues to be a favorite for its simplicity and fun element.

The Electric Slide

Though it originated in the 70s, the Electric Slide maintained its popularity well into the 90s. This 18-step, four-wall line dance is performed in a sequence to the song “Electric Boogie.” It’s a classic at weddings and group events, and its enduring popularity has made it a dance floor staple.

The Sprinkler

The Sprinkler is a humorous dance that involves holding one arm out straight and the other bent at the elbow, then rotating the bent arm’s hand around the head, imitating a garden sprinkler. This move is a party favorite and is still used for a lighthearted dance moment.

The Robot

While the Robot started in the 1960s, it saw a resurgence in the 90s as part of the breakdancing movement. This dance involves moving the arms, legs, and head in a mechanical, jerky fashion, like a robot. It’s a popular choice in dance battles and as a fun party trick.

The Cabbage Patch

The Cabbage Patch involves moving your hands in a circular motion in front of you, as if you are stirring a pot, while you step from side to side. This move gained popularity in the late 80s and continued to be a fun, easy dance throughout the 90s.

The Slide

Similar to the Electric Slide, the Slide is a line dance with a series of steps that include sliding feet and turning. It’s a popular group dance and is frequently seen at social events and parties.

The A-Town Stomp

Originating from Atlanta, this dance involves a stomping movement paired with a rhythmic clap. It became popular in the 90s hip hop scene and is still a staple in hip hop dance today.

The Bogle

Named after Jamaican dancer Bogle, this dance move involves bending the knees slightly and swaying the arms in a bird-like motion. It was a significant move in the dancehall scene and continues to influence modern dancehall styles.

The Jump

Popularized by the song “Jump” by Kris Kross, this dance move simply involves jumping in place to the beat of the music. It’s straightforward, energetic, and remains a fun way to get everyone on the dance floor moving.

The Shimmy

The Shimmy is a classic move involving shaking the body, especially the shoulders, back and forth rapidly. While it’s been around for decades, it saw a resurgence in the 90s and is still a popular move for adding flair to any dance routine.

The Grind

The Grind, or body roll, is a sensual dance move that involves rolling the body in a fluid, wave-like motion. It was a common move in the club scenes of the 90s and continues to be a popular element in contemporary dance.

The Cha Cha Slide

Created by DJ Casper, the Cha Cha Slide is a step-by-step dance routine that became popular in the late 90s. It includes a series of commands that instruct the dancer on what to do next, making it an inclusive and fun group activity.

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