20 Dance Moves We Learned from Music Videos
Unforgettable music videos that gave us iconic dance moves that still inspire us today.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
These music videos brought us unforgettable dance moves that we all tried to copy. Music videos turned into dance lessons, giving us routines that still make us smile. Let’s look at the moves that defined a generation and improved every party.
1. The Moonwalk - Michael Jackson
Drew H. Cohen on Wikimedia Commons
Michael Jackson’s Moonwalk is still one of the most incredible moves ever. That smooth slide made everyone want to try it, and it never gets old.
2. Puppet Dance - NSYNC
Alfredo Matheus Diez on Wikimedia Commons
NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye” gave us those puppet-like hand moves. Everyone wanted to copy their sharp steps. It was fun and unforgettable.
3. The Running Man - MC Hammer
Brian Solis on Wikimedia Commons
The Running Man was all about energy and fun. MC Hammer made it look so cool, even though it wasn’t easy to keep up. It’s still a favorite for 90s dance fans.
4. Vogue-ing - Madonna
Digger24 on Wikimedia Commons
Madonna’s “Vogue” made striking poses look so stylish. It was all about showing confidence and attitude. This move is still a classic.
5. The Macarena - Los Del Rio
Gorkemkibar on Wikimedia Commons
The Macarena had easy arm and hip moves that everyone could do. It was a dance everyone joined in on. You couldn’t escape it at any party.
6. The Cabbage Patch - Digital Underground
www.lukeisback.com on Wikimedia Commons
The Cabbage Patch was all about free movement. It looked goofy but was so much fun to do. Everyone did it, no matter how they looked.
7. The Slide - Billy Ray Cyrus
McNeeley on Wikimedia Commons
The slide was all about smoothly gliding across the floor. Simple steps and a catchy beat made it easy for anyone to join in. It’s a fun move that still brings energy to the dance floor.
8. The Tootsie Roll - 69 Boyz
KendallTolbert on Wikimedia Commons
The Tootsie Roll had you rolling your hips in a smooth circle. It was a laid-back move that everyone could easily follow. It’s the move you still pull off at a party.
9. The Stanky Legg - GS Boyz
User:Slizzgsboyz on Wikimedia Commons
The Stanky Legg had everyone shaking their legs like they were stepping in something stinky. It was silly, but that’s what made it so fun. It was an instant hit at every dance.
10. The Butterfly - Lil’ Troy
Fernando Paleta on Pexels
The Butterfly was about moving your feet in circles while keeping your arms in sync. It was a chill move that felt great when you nailed it. You couldn’t help but smile when doing it.
11. The Harlem Shake - Baauer
Leah Gair on Wikimedia Commons
The Harlem Shake was about getting loose and having fun. People started throwing their arms around and going wild to the beat. It was a dance that made you forget everything else.
12. The Electric Slide - Marcia Griffiths
Krd on Wikimedia Commons
The Electric Slide was a line dance everyone could follow. Simple steps, a catchy beat, and suddenly, you were part of the group. It’s one of those dances, you know.
13. The Snake - Doug E. Fresh
Andrew Mager on Wikimedia Commons
The Snake had you swaying your body like it was a wiggly snake. It was a smooth, fluid move that looked cool no matter how you did it. This one was all about style.
14. The Wop - K.W. & The New Beginning
Andrej Lišakov on Unsplash
The Wop was a fun, energetic dance where you swayed and stepped with flair. It was about being free and letting loose to the beat. You couldn’t stop once you started.
15. The Cha-Cha Slide - DJ Casper
Fuzzy Gerdes on Wikimedia Commons
The Cha-Cha Slide made you move in every direction. Everyone was in sync from Left, right, front, back. It was the dance everyone waited for at the party.
16. The Pop & Lock - The Lockers
Andrej Lišakov on Unsplash
The Pop & Lock combined stiff moves and smooth fluidity. You popped your body in sharp motions and locked it in place. It was a cool, creative style that showed off your control.
17. The Twist - Chubby Checker
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
The Twist had everyone turning their hips and feet in a fast, circular motion. It was easy, fun, and always a hit at any party. You couldn’t stop once you got into the groove.
18. The Reebok - Reebok
Andrej Lišakov on Unsplash
The Reebok was all about smooth footwork and quick steps, often paired with a little bit of attitude. It was a cool, street-inspired move that got everyone moving in sync. It perfectly captured the 90s dance vibe.
19. Kid ‘N’ Play - Kid ‘N’ Play
David Shankbone on Wikimedia Commons
The Kid ‘N’ Play dance was a fun combination of bouncy steps and a signature high kick. Thanks to the duo’s playful energy, it became a staple of 90s hip-hop dance. You couldn’t help but smile trying it out.
20. The Dougie - Cali Swag District
Michael A. Haase on Wikimedia Commons
The Dougie became a hit with Cali Swag District’s catchy song. It’s all about smooth arm movements and a little swagger, making it feel effortless. Everyone had their version of it, but it was always fun.