Hip Hop Dance vs. Street Dance: What’s the Difference?

If you’re new to dance, you’ve probably heard people use the words “hip hop” and “street dance” interchangeably. In fact, many beginner classes are labeled as one or the other, which can make things a little confusing. Is there an actual difference?

The short answer: hip hop is one style within the larger family of street dance. But the story goes deeper and knowing the difference can help you feel closer to the culture and more confident before taking a class.

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What is Street Dance?

Street dance is a broad term for dance styles that developed outside of traditional studios and theaters. These dances often began in communities, at parties, on the streets, or in social gatherings where people expressed themselves freely.

Some of the most well-known street dance styles include:

• Hip Hop (breaking, party dances, freestyle-based movement)
• Breaking (B-boying/B-girling)
• Locking
• Popping
• House Dance
• Waacking & Voguing

What ties them together is their freestyle nature, strong connection to music, and cultural roots in self-expression, community, and individuality. Street dance isn’t just about “moves”, it’s also about the culture that created them.

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What is Hip Hop Dance?

Hip hop dance is a street style born in the 1970s in the Bronx, New York, alongside hip hop music and culture. It originally included breaking, DJing, MCing (rapping), and graffiti (aka, the four elements of hip hop). Dance was the physical expression of hip hop’s energy, rebellion, and creativity.

Over time, hip hop evolved into many forms:

• Breaking (floorwork, power moves, freezes)
• Party dances (social grooves like the Running Man, Bart Simpson, or Cabbage Patch)
• Freestyle/Improvisation (battles, cyphers, or just vibing with the music)

In studios today, when you see a class labeled “Hip Hop,” it might include a mix of party grooves, choreography to hip hop or pop tracks, or even blends of other styles. But its roots always point back to the culture of hip hop.

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The Key Difference Between Hip Hop and Street Dance

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Street dance = the umbrella term that includes many styles.
• Hip hop dance = one specific style (and culture) within that umbrella.

So, while all hip hop is street dance, not all street dance is hip hop. For example, waacking and house are also street dances, but they’re not considered hip hop.

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Why the Terms Get Mixed Up

It’s totally normal to see “hip hop” and “street” used interchangeably in studios or online. Some of the reasons include:

1. Studio Culture vs. Street Culture: Studios often market “hip hop” classes because it’s a familiar term for beginners, even if the class blends multiple street styles.
2. Media Influence: TV shows, music videos, and TikTok often lump all street styles under “hip hop” for simplicity.
3. Accessibility: For someone brand new to dance, “hip hop” is easier to recognize than “street dance,” so teachers and studios use it to draw people in.
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Which One Should You Take as a Beginner?

If you’re trying to decide between a hip hop class or a street dance class, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Hip Hop Class: Expect grooves, choreography, and a fun vibe that connects to hip hop music. Great for beginners who want something energetic, musical, and expressive.
  
• Street Dance Class: This may cover a range of styles (like locking, house, or popping). It’s perfect if you’re curious about dance history and want to explore different techniques.

Pro tip: If you’ve been curious about a specific dance style, try it! But remember, the most important thing is showing up, moving, and discovering what feels good in your body.

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How to Get the Most Out of Either Class

1. Listen to the Music — Street styles are built on rhythm. Let your body guide you.
2. Focus on Grooves, Not Just Steps — How a move feels matters more than memorizing counts.
3. Respect the Culture — Learn about the history, pioneers, and roots of the style you’re exploring.
4. Bring Your Personality — Street and hip hop dance are about expression, not perfection.
5. Stay Open-Minded — You might fall in love with a style you never expected!
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FAQs

Q: Do I need experience to start?
No! Both hip hop and street dance classes are beginner-friendly. In fact, most teachers love working with brand-new dancers.

Q: Do I need special shoes or clothes?
Just wear comfortable sneakers and clothes you can move in. Streetwear-inspired outfits can be fun to wear to class too.

Q: Is hip hop just choreography to rap music?
No. Hip hop includes grooves, freestyle, and cultural history, not just choreographed routines.

Q: What’s the best way to learn street dance styles authentically?
Take classes, but also watch battles, study OGs on YouTube, and practice freestyling. The culture is as important as the moves.