Dance trends are a cornerstone of internet culture, and TikTok is the epicenter for the latest viral crazes. From Tyla’s Water dance to the Rollie Rollie trend, there’s always a new move captivating users. Currently, the spotlight is on a dance that’s experiencing a major resurgence: the Pimp Named Slickback Dance, also known as the Slickback dance.
This gliding dance move is taking TikTok by storm, with users worldwide eager to learn its smooth steps. But where did the Pimp Named Slickback dance originate, and how did it become so popular? Let’s dive into the details of this viral trend.
The Genesis of the Glide: From Jubi Slide to Slickback
The dance initially gained traction in 2022 as the Jubi Slide, thanks to TikTok creator Jubi2fye (@jubi2fye). Jubi2fye’s original choreography, set to Kia’s “Jersey Anniversary” (@kia_bhn) – a remix of Tony! Toni! Toné!’s classic “Anniversary” – showcased effortless gliding movements.
Jubi2fye performing the Jubi Slide, the original version of the Slickback dance
The Jubi Slide’s appeal lay in its mesmerizing illusion of floating. Dancers gracefully slide sideways, creating the appearance of stepping on air, captivating viewers and inspiring countless attempts to replicate the smooth motion. Comments on Jubi2fye’s videos captured this magic, with users remarking, “Are you gliding bruh,” and “This man is skating on air.” The original sound, credited to Malcolm B (@malcolmbceo), amassed over 197,000 videos, demonstrating the dance’s initial widespread appeal.
The Slickback Re-Emergence: “Pimp Named Slickback” Sound Takes Over
Recently, the dance has surged back into the TikTok limelight, experiencing a second wave of virality. This resurgence comes with a slight name change and a new soundtrack. While the core movement remains, it’s now widely known as the Slickback dance, heavily influenced by a distinctive sound.
The defining element of this new wave is the music. TikTokers are now performing the dance to a mashup combining Crystal Waters’ iconic “Gypsy Woman” with a sound bite from the character A Pimp Named Slickback from Adult Swim’s “The Boondocks,” voiced by Katt Williams.
This popular audio track on TikTok is often attributed to Joseph (@beaneetv), though the original remix was created by Lakim (@lakimisalive). The catchy beat and humorous soundbite from A Pimp Named Slickback have perfectly complemented the gliding dance, propelling it to even greater heights of popularity.
The Pimp Named Slickback dance has transcended TikTok, even making its way into the world of sports, becoming a celebratory move on the field.
Mastering the Slickback: A Step-by-Step Guide
The beauty of the Pimp Named Slickback dance lies in its illusion of effortless floating. While it may look like magic, it’s achievable with practice. Atlanta content creator Trey Wavy (@tr3ywavy) provided a helpful four-step tutorial to break down the dance.
While similar to the Jubi Slide, Trey Wavy highlights a key variation in the Slickback dance. He emphasizes lifting your toe on the sliding foot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the ground, enhancing the floating effect. Despite tutorials, many still find the dance challenging, joking about needing “wizard” skills to master the smooth glide.
The Pimp Named Slickback dance is more than just a trend; it’s a testament to the infectious nature of dance and sound on TikTok. Its captivating illusion and catchy soundtrack ensure its continued popularity across the platform and beyond.
