The Evolution of Dance on TikTok: From Flossing to the Renegade
In the realm of social media, TikTok has emerged as a cultural juggernaut, capturing the imaginations of millions worldwide. It’s a platform where trends rise and fall with breathtaking speed, and no trend has been more prominent or enduring than the evolution of dance on TikTok. From the viral sensation of the “Floss” to the mesmerizing moves of the “Renegade,” this article explores the journey of dance on TikTok, its cultural impact, and the dance creators who have made it all possible.
The Birth of TikTok Dance
TikTok, known as Douyin in China, was created by the Chinese company ByteDance and was first launched in September 2016. It quickly spread to other parts of the world and merged with the app Musical.ly in August 2018. This merger paved the way for the evolution of dance on the platform.
At its core, TikTok is a short-form video platform where users can create and share 15 to 60-second videos set to music. This unique format allowed for the rise of dance challenges, as users could easily create their own interpretations of popular songs and dance routines. The first dance craze to take TikTok by storm was the “Floss.”
The Floss Dance
The “Floss” dance, characterized by its fast arm swings and hip thrusts, became a sensation in 2018. It was popularized by a 16-year-old American, Russell Horning, better known as “The Backpack Kid.” His appearance on “Saturday Night Live” performing the Floss alongside Katy Perry during her musical performance took the dance to new heights.
The Floss dance was simple yet infectious, making it accessible to a wide range of users, from kids to adults. Celebrities and ordinary individuals alike joined the Floss craze, and soon, it was virtually impossible to browse TikTok without encountering someone showcasing their own version of the dance.
This early TikTok dance phenomenon provided a glimpse into the platform’s potential for catapulting dance moves into the mainstream. It also marked the beginning of TikTok’s role as a cultural catalyst, with dances becoming a powerful form of expression and connection in the digital age.
The Rise of Dance Challenges
One of the defining features of TikTok’s dance culture is the prevalence of dance challenges. These challenges are often initiated by TikTok creators who choreograph specific routines to specific songs, and other users are encouraged to imitate and add their own flair. The dance challenges are both creative and participatory, creating a sense of community and connectedness among users.
The “In My Feelings” challenge is a notable example. It was initiated by comedian Shiggy, who created a dance to Drake’s hit song “In My Feelings.” The challenge involved getting out of a moving car and dancing alongside it, which led to a surge in the song’s popularity. Celebrities like Will Smith and Ciara joined in, further cementing TikTok as a platform where dance trends can go viral globally.
The Iconic Renegade Dance
While the Floss and the In My Feelings challenge made waves, perhaps the most iconic TikTok dance to date is the “Renegade.” The Renegade dance routine was created by then-14-year-old Jalaiah Harmon in 2019. The dance is characterized by intricate hand and body movements set to the tune of the song “Lottery” by K CAMP.
Despite creating a viral sensation, Jalaiah initially went unnoticed. The Renegade dance was popularized on TikTok by other users, and Jalaiah’s role in its creation was not widely acknowledged. It was only after a viral tweet and recognition from celebrities like Charli D’Amelio and K CAMP himself that Jalaiah finally received the credit she deserved.
The Renegade dance showcases how TikTok’s dance culture can sometimes overshadow the creators behind the movements. Nevertheless, it also highlights the power of collective creativity on the platform and how even young creators can leave a lasting mark on popular culture.
The Dance Creators Behind the Moves
TikTok has given birth to a new generation of dance creators. These individuals often start as everyday users, but their talent and creativity quickly earn them recognition and a substantial following. Some of these dance creators have turned TikTok into a career, leveraging their popularity for opportunities like brand partnerships and collaborations.
Charli D’Amelio, for instance, became a sensation for her energetic and precise dance routines. She is one of the most followed users on the platform, with millions of followers. Charli’s success on TikTok led to various brand deals and opportunities in the entertainment industry.
In addition to Charli, creators like Addison Rae, Dixie D’Amelio, and Loren Gray have used TikTok as a launchpad for their careers. These individuals have not only built massive followings but have also ventured into music, acting, and other creative pursuits.
Cultural Impact of TikTok Dance
The evolution of dance on TikTok has had a profound cultural impact. TikTok dances have reshaped the way music is promoted and consumed. Songs that gain popularity on TikTok often experience a significant boost on streaming platforms and even the Billboard charts.
TikTok dances have also brought people together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. Users from all over the world participate in dance challenges, showcasing the universal appeal of dance as a form of expression and connection.
Moreover, TikTok dances have influenced mainstream media and advertising. Advertisers and marketers have recognized the power of TikTok dance challenges and have incorporated them into marketing campaigns to reach a younger and more engaged audience.
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Challenges and Controversies
While TikTok dance has undoubtedly brought joy and entertainment to millions, it has not been without its challenges and controversies. The issue of crediting creators, as seen with the Renegade dance, highlights the importance of giving recognition to the individuals who originate these trends.
Another challenge involves cultural appropriation. Some users have been criticized for appropriating dances from other cultures without proper acknowledgment or respect. This issue underscores the need for awareness and sensitivity in the creation and sharing of dance content on TikTok.
Moreover, the pressure to participate in dance trends and challenges can be overwhelming, potentially leading to feelings of inadequacy or exclusion. TikTok has prompted discussions about the impact of social media on mental health, as users navigate the demands of staying relevant and gaining followers.
The Future of Dance on TikTok
As TikTok continues to evolve and expand its reach, so will the world of dance on the platform. New trends will emerge, with fresh choreography and music driving the dance culture forward. TikTok is likely to remain a dominant force in shaping popular dance trends, with creators innovating and captivating audiences with their talent and creativity.
Additionally, as TikTok’s influence on the music industry grows, we can expect to see more artists and record labels collaborating with TikTok creators to promote their music. This symbiotic relationship between music and dance is likely to be a defining feature of TikTok’s future.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the evolution of dance on TikTok has been nothing short of remarkable. From the Floss to the Renegade, TikTok has redefined the way we experience and share dance. It has empowered a new generation of creators while challenging us to consider issues of attribution, cultural appropriation, and mental health in the digital age. The future of dance on TikTok is sure to be as dynamic and transformative as its past, and the dance creators of tomorrow are already shaping the trends of today.
