The Differences Between B Boying and Break Dancing
Break dancing, often inaccurately referred to as 'b boying,' has its roots in funk music and the elaborate choreography that emerged during the early days of hip-hop culture. But what is the true distinction between B Boying and break dancing? This article delves into the historical, cultural, and technical nuances that set these styles apart, while also addressing why the terms have become practically interchangeable in modern discourse.
Origins and Terminology
Breaking, or break dancing, as it is more commonly known, traces its roots to the gritty neighborhoods of New York City in the 1970s. The term "breaking" was first popularized by DJ Kool Herc, who began hosting parties where he would use two identical records to loop and extend the 'break' sections of songs. These breaks were characterized by short, powerful, and rhythmic parts that were rich in instrumental elements, providing a perfect canvas for dancers to showcase their skills.
The term 'B Boying' is a bit more nuanced. It was originally a term coined to describe the male dancers who participated in these break dancing sessions. The 'B' in B Boying stands for both 'breaking' and 'break dance.' Over time, the term 'b boy' or 'B Boy' became the preferred descriptor for dancers who specialized in break dance and its associated styles. However, in modern usage, the terms B Boying and break dancing are used interchangeably, despite their subtle differences in origin and connotation.
The media's role in popularizing the term 'break dancing' was significant. The popularity of movies like emBreakin'/em and emBreakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo/em in the 1980s played a crucial part in introducing these dance styles to a broader audience. These films perpetuated the use of the term 'break dancing' to the public, leading it to become the more widely recognized term in popular culture.
From a pejorative to a neutral term, 'break dancing' has evolved over the decades. Initially, it was seen as a rough, subversive, and nondescript term, conjuring images of street thugs and delinquents. However, these associations gradually weakened, allowing the spirit of the dance to take center stage.
Technical and Cultural Nuances
Breaking, or B Boying, encompasses a wide range of dance moves that together form the basis of break dance. This includes various techniques such as:
Footwork
B Boying involves intricate footwork that mimics the beats and rhythms of the music. It includes moves like the 1-2-3 step, where dancers are able to keep pace with the rhythm of the song. Footwork is more than just following the music; it's about expressing the music with your feet, creating a rhythmic conversation between the dancer and the beat.
Flips and aerials
This is one of the most recognizable aspects of break dancing. Flips and aerials include moves like the windmill, headspin, and backspin, where dancers rotate their bodies around a single leg or arm, using momentum and gravity to perform precise and dynamic movements. These aerials are not just about showmanship; they require a high degree of physical strength, flexibility, and control.
Freezes and grinding
Freezes involve holding complex, contorted positions on the floor or objects, showcasing a dancer's balance and control. Freezes are highly technical and require a deep understanding of body mechanics. Grinding, on the other hand, is a low-to-the-ground dance move that involves moving the feet in circular patterns on the ground, often while also executing body isolations.
While break dancing can involve all of these elements, the term is sometimes used more broadly to include any dance style that involves rhythmic and fluid movements to break music.
Technically, while B Boying and break dancing share many similarities, they do have some distinct characteristics. For instance, B Boying often places a greater emphasis on the complexity and precision of footwork, while break dancing may incorporate a wider variety of styles and techniques including fluid isolations and body movements not specific to break dance culture.
Shared Spirit and Popular Culture
Despite these technical distinctions, the spirit of B Boying and break dancing remains the same. Both styles share a connection to the underground and street culture from which they emerged, and both reflect a desire to express oneself through movement and rhythm. The culture of break dancing is marked by a strong sense of community, where dancers support one another in competitions and performances. These events, known as borts or battles, are where dancers showcase their skills, foster creativity, and engage in artistic expression.
The shared history and cultural significance of B Boying and break dancing have further blurred the lines between the two. Both have contributed to the broader hip-hop culture, influencing fashion, music, and popular media. Break dancing has been featured in numerous films, videos, and television shows, cementing its place in mainstream culture. Similarly, the B Boying community and its international competitions have helped to spread the art form and maintain its relevance in the modern world.
Conclusion
While the terms B Boying and break dancing are often used interchangeably, a deeper understanding reveals that they have distinct origins and characteristics. B Boying, originally a term for male break dancers, has evolved to describe a more technical and precise style of break dancing. Break dancing, while encompassing all aspects of hip-hop dance, may include a wider range of styles and techniques. Nonetheless, the shared spirit of rhythmic expression and community is a constant thread that connects these dance forms.
Whether it is B Boying or break dancing, the art of break dance continues to captivate audiences around the world. Its unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and cultural significance makes it a timeless and ever-evolving form of expression in the hip-hop genre.