Hip-Hop is not just a form of music or dance; it is a culture and a lifestyle. The official birthday of Hip-Hop is November 12th, 1974 and was introduced to the American public in New York City by Kool Herc. Hip-Hop is closely associated with rap, the rhythmic speaking of words to a beat. Hip-Hop dancing has become popular and is considered a legitimate form of dance. You can incorporate Hip-Hop into games and activities for school lessons and parties.
Dancing Games
Play Hip-Hop music for a game of Freeze Frame, in which everyone dances to the music but must completely stop when the music is turned off; whoever moves after the Hip-Hop stops has to sit the next rounds out. Give an impromptu lesson in Hip-Hop dance at parties or in the classroom to get people up on their feet and moving. For young people, play Hip-Hop tunes while playing musical chairs, or host a Hip-Hop dance party.
Hip-Hop Dance Lessons
Offer Hip-Hop dance lessons or informal classes to teach people about the history of Hip-Hop and some basic steps, like the "Pop N' Lock" or "Krumping." Providing Hip-Hop dance lessons is a good way to help people understand its cultural importance in American society and its place in popular music. Hip-Hop dancing involves choreographed steps and movements and can be strenuous, making it an excellent way to exercise and a good cardiovascular work-out.
Trivia Games
A Hip-Hop-themed trivia night can help teach others about the culture and lifestyle and bring friends and family together for a fun evening. Write questions down on different colored index cards, divided into categories like "Classic Hip-Hop," "Modern Hip-Hop," "Famous Hip-Hoppers" and "Song Titles." Play clips of classic Hip-Hop and contemporary Hip-Hop music to test players of their knowledge of the genre in a "Name that Tune" kind of game. Play Hip-Hop music to provide ambiance for your themed game night.
Song Writing
Hip-Hop lyrics are as rhythmic as the beats they are set to. Even if there is no instrumental accompaniment, spoken, rhyming lyrics form the basis of Hip-Hop. Get together with other Hip-Hop enthusiasts and performers and have a song writing workshop. This can introduce you to other performers and DJs and help improve your own skills. Having informal gatherings in which you share lyrics and rhythms can help promote understanding of Hip-Hop culture and music.
Tags: Hip-Hop dance, Hip-Hop music, culture lifestyle, dance lessons, Hip-Hop dancing