The 1970s stands out as a truly unique era in pop culture, especially when it comes to dance. This decade of significant social and political change fostered an unprecedented wave of artistic expression, and music was at the heart of it all. New music trends exploded onto the scene, and naturally, a plethora of exciting new dance crazes followed. Television embraced this dance revolution with shows like Soul Train, which became a cultural touchstone, influencing dance, music, and pop culture for decades to come. As discotheques proliferated, dancing became even more central to the social lives of a new generation of club-goers. Synonymous with bold polyester fashions, towering platform shoes, and the infectious rhythms of disco music, the 70s, fueled by the spirit of free love and flower power, gave rise to some of the most unforgettable dance crazes ever seen. While the fashion of the 70s is instantly recognizable across generations, the dances are just as iconic. Let’s take a trip back to the funky 1970s and explore some of the moves that got everyone on their feet!
1. The Hustle
“Do The Hustle!” urged singer Van McCoy in his chart-topping 1975 hit, and the world listened. The song and the dance exploded in popularity, so much so that “hustle” became a catch-all term for many disco-style dances of the era. This led to a variety of Hustle styles, from West Coast to East Coast variations, and versions for partners and lines. The couples version of the Hustle truly took off after its electrifying feature in the iconic film Saturday Night Fever. This dynamic blend of Swing and Latin dance, set to a pulsating 70s disco beat, continues to be enjoyed in ballrooms around the globe today, proving its enduring appeal.
2. The Bump
Simplicity was key to the widespread appeal of many 70s dance crazes, and The Bump was a prime example. Requiring only one main step, it was incredibly easy to learn and join in on the fun. Dancers, often in pairs standing side-by-side, would sway to the music and then, on every other beat, playfully bump hips. While the intention was a gentle bump, the dance floor often saw smaller dancers comically sent off-course by more enthusiastic (or heavier!) partners. The Bump’s catchy nature inspired several songs of the same name, but its adaptable step meant it could be danced to virtually any tune.
3. YMCA Dance
Universally loved by children and adults alike, the song “YMCA” by The Village People, released in 1978, is more than just a catchy tune – it’s a cultural phenomenon. It spawned a dance that is unique in that it primarily uses the arms, not the feet. Dancers simply form the letters Y, M, C, and A with their arms whenever those letters are sung in the lyrics. During the rest of the song, participants typically skip around and freestyle, adding their own groovy flair. The YMCA dance’s infectious energy, simplicity, and broad appeal have made it a lasting favorite, commonly seen at sporting events, weddings, and countless social gatherings to this day.
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4. Funky Chicken Dance
One of the most visually distinctive and humorous dances of the 70s, and arguably any era, the Funky Chicken was a solo dance that mimicked the jerky, comical movements of a chicken strutting around. Featuring steps with names like “chicken legs” and “chicken wings,” it’s important not to confuse it with the Chicken Dance often performed at wedding receptions – the Funky Chicken was all about embracing the silliness and letting loose on the dance floor.
5. The Disco Finger
Another dance move indelibly linked to the movie Saturday Night Fever, the Disco Finger minimized lower body movement and maximized upper body cool. Inspired by John Travolta’s iconic pose in the film, dancers would emulate his stance, rhythmically thrusting their hips from side to side while extending their right index finger. This finger would then smoothly trace a path from the floor, across the body, and up to the sky, perfectly capturing the suave and stylized essence of disco.
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John Travolta Disco Finger Saturday Night Fever[/instruction]
6. The Bus Stop
While perhaps a bit more challenging for those less rhythmically inclined, The Bus Stop was undeniably catchy and epitomized the quintessential 70s dance vibe. This line dance involved a series of steps and claps, often performed in a group, creating a fun and synchronized experience on the dance floor. Its intricate yet engaging nature made it a popular choice in clubs and parties throughout the decade.
7. The Robot
Also known as the Mannequin, The Robot emerged from the burgeoning street dance scene of the 70s and quickly captivated audiences with its illusionary movements. Dancers executing The Robot appeared to move like mechanical figures, with subtle yet impactful motions that were surprisingly difficult to replicate convincingly. While it originated in the 70s, The Robot truly skyrocketed to global fame as one of Michael Jackson’s signature moves, becoming a foundational element in hip-hop and pop dance styles that continues to inspire dancers today. Mastering The Robot typically requires years of dedicated practice, highlighting its artistry and technical demand.
8. The Lawnmower
Simple, silly, and universally accessible, The Lawnmower dance was perfect for anyone wanting to join the fun without complex choreography. The steps are exactly as they sound: dancers mimic starting a lawnmower by pulling one arm back, then grabbing an imaginary handle and pushing the mower back and forth across an imaginary lawn with extended arms. Its comical nature and ease of execution made it a hit at parties and gatherings, guaranteeing laughs and lighthearted participation.
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9. The Sprinkler
No fancy footwork required for The Sprinkler – just pure, unadulterated 70s silliness. As the name suggests, the dance imitates a lawn sprinkler. Dancers extend one arm straight out to the side while bending the other, hand raised to their head. The straight arm then moves in a slow, staccato, back-and-forth motion, mimicking the rhythmic spray of a sprinkler watering a lawn. Its simplicity and visual humor made it an instant party pleaser.
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Sprinkler Dance 70s move[/instruction]
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 step pattern makes it remarkably easy to learn quickly, contributing to its decades-long reign as a staple at weddings, concerts, and countless other social events. Its versatility is another key to its longevity; it can be danced to a wide range of music genres, seamlessly fitting into diverse musical and dance settings.
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The 1970s may be long gone, but the spirit of the era lives on vibrantly through its nostalgic music and carefree dance steps. These iconic Seventies Dances continue to bring joy and get people moving across generations, ensuring the groovy legacy of the decade endures.
