The 1970s: a decade of bell-bottoms, disco balls, and an explosion of dance trends that are as unforgettable as the era itself. Amidst a backdrop of cultural and political shifts, the 70s became a breeding ground for artistic expression, particularly in music and dance. From the rise of disco to the burgeoning funk scene, new sounds inspired new moves, captivating a generation and beyond. Television shows like Soul Train amplified the dance revolution, broadcasting the latest steps into homes across America and solidifying dance’s central role in pop culture. As discotheques popped up like mushrooms after rain, fueled by the pulsating rhythms of disco, dancing became the heartbeat of a generation defined by freedom, expression, and a whole lot of style. While 70s fashion is instantly recognizable, the dances of the decade are just as iconic. So, let’s put on our platform shoes and boogie back in time to explore the most iconic dance crazes of the 1970s!
1. The Hustle
Emerging in 1975, The Hustle quickly became synonymous with 70s disco dancing, largely thanks to Van McCoy’s hit song “Do The Hustle.” The track became an anthem, and the dance, initially evolving from Latin and swing influences, morphed into various regional styles, including West Coast and East Coast versions, as well as both partner and line dance formats. The partner version of The Hustle exploded into mainstream popularity after captivating audiences in the iconic film Saturday Night Fever. This dynamic blend of swing and Latin steps, all set to a pulsating 70s disco beat, continues to be enjoyed in ballrooms and dance floors around the globe, proving its timeless appeal and status as a true disco classic.
2. The Bump
Simplicity was key to the widespread appeal of The Bump. This dance craze required minimal instruction, focusing on a single, infectious move. Dancers, often in pairs and standing side-by-side, would sway to the music before rhythmically bumping hips, usually every other beat. While the intention was a gentle hip-to-hip nudge, the energy of the dance floor sometimes led to more forceful bumps, humorously sending lighter dancers across the floor! The Bump was so popular it inspired several songs bearing the same name, but its adaptable nature meant it could be danced to virtually any groovy tune of the era.
3. YMCA Dance
An undeniable earworm and a universal crowd-pleaser, the song “YMCA” by The Village People, released in 1978, spawned a dance that’s as iconic as the track itself. Uniquely, the YMCA dance primarily utilizes arm movements, making it accessible and fun for everyone, regardless of dancing ability. Participants simply use their arms to spell out Y-M-C-A during the song’s chorus. The rest of the song often sees dancers skipping, freestyling, and generally letting loose. Its simplicity and infectious joy have cemented the YMCA dance as a staple at sporting events, weddings, and parties worldwide, transcending generations with its feel-good energy.
4. Funky Chicken Dance
Bursting with personality, the Funky Chicken Dance was a solo sensation known for its vibrant and comical movements. Mimicking the jerky, strutting motions of a chicken, the dance incorporated steps with names like “chicken legs” and “chicken wings.” Distinct from the more generic “Chicken Dance” often seen at wedding receptions, the Funky Chicken was a true expression of 70s individuality and playful spirit, encouraging dancers to let loose and embrace the silliness.
5. The Disco Finger
Another dance move indelibly linked to Saturday Night Fever, the Disco Finger captured the cool swagger of the disco era with minimal lower body movement. Inspired by John Travolta’s signature pose in the film, dancers emulate his stance, rhythmically thrusting their hips from side to side while extending their right index finger. The finger then punctuates the beat, pointing from the floor upwards and across the body in a smooth, stylized motion. The Disco Finger became an instant symbol of 70s disco chic, embodying effortless style and rhythmic flair.
6. The Bus Stop
While requiring a bit more rhythmic coordination than some other 70s dances, The Bus Stop was undeniably catchy and a quintessential move of the decade. Characterized by a sequence of steps performed in a line, often moving forward and backward, The Bus Stop mirrored the actions of waiting for a bus – hence the name. Its structured yet groovy nature made it a popular choice in dance classes and at social gatherings, showcasing the era’s blend of structured steps with free-flowing style.
7. The Robot
Also known as the Mannequin, The Robot emerged from the burgeoning street dance scene of the 70s and quickly gained notoriety for its illusionary movements. Dancers executing The Robot aimed to mimic the stiff, mechanical motions of a robot or mannequin, often using subtle isolations and jerky, stop-motion-like movements to create a captivating visual effect. Popularized globally by Michael Jackson, who incorporated it into his signature style, The Robot requires significant practice and control to master, becoming a respected and enduring element within hip-hop and pop dance cultures.
8. The Lawnmower
Embracing pure silliness, The Lawnmower dance was accessible and humorous, perfect for anyone wanting to join the fun. The steps are exactly as imagined: dancers mimic starting a lawnmower by pulling an imaginary cord, followed by grasping imaginary handles and pushing the mower back and forth across an invisible lawn. Its simple, pantomime-like actions made The Lawnmower a guaranteed laugh and a lighthearted addition to any 70s dance party.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RL2bZYWO8p0
9. The Sprinkler
Another dance relying on imaginative actions, The Sprinkler required no fancy footwork and was all about arm movements. Dancers extend one arm straight out to the side while bending the other, holding their hand near their head. The straight arm then moves in a slow, staccato, sprinkler-like motion, mimicking watering a lawn. Easy to learn and visually engaging, The Sprinkler added another layer of playful creativity to the 70s dance repertoire.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qYR5gVsoY4
10. The Electric Slide
This four-wall line dance, originally choreographed to Marcia Griffiths’ song “Electric Boogie” in 1976, has become an enduring classic. The Electric Slide’s repetitive sequence of steps makes it remarkably easy to learn quickly, contributing to its widespread popularity at weddings, concerts, and social events for decades. Its adaptability to various music genres further solidified its place in dance culture, allowing it to seamlessly blend into diverse musical landscapes and dance styles, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mOY2eWO2qw
The 1970s may be decades past, but the spirit of the era lives on vibrantly through its music and the incredibly fun, carefree dance steps it gifted the world. These dances, born from a unique cultural moment, continue to bring joy and get people moving across generations, ensuring the groovy legacy of 70s dancing endures for many years to come.
