Locking (dance)
Introduction
Locking is a highly energetic and expressive form of street dance that originated in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It is characterized by its distinctive movements, which include sudden pauses, or "locks," in the dancer's motion, combined with rhythmic and exaggerated gestures. Locking is often performed to funk music, which complements its dynamic and playful style. This dance form is not only a crucial component of hip-hop culture but also a standalone art form with its own unique history and techniques.
Historical Background
Locking was created by Don Campbell, also known as "Campbellock," in Los Angeles, California. The dance emerged from Campbell's attempts to imitate the popular social dances of the time, such as the Funky Chicken and the Robot. However, his inability to perform these moves smoothly led to an accidental creation of a new style, characterized by abrupt pauses and exaggerated gestures. This innovation quickly gained popularity in the Los Angeles dance scene and laid the foundation for what would become known as locking.
The dance form gained further recognition through the television show "Soul Train," where Campbell and his group, The Lockers, showcased their skills to a national audience. The Lockers, which included notable dancers like Toni Basil and Fred Berry, played a significant role in popularizing locking and establishing it as a distinct dance style.
Technical Aspects of Locking
Locking is defined by several key movements and techniques that distinguish it from other dance forms. These include:
The Lock
The lock is the foundational movement of the style, involving a sudden pause or "lock" in the dancer's motion. This is often followed by a quick and exaggerated movement, creating a dynamic contrast. The lock is typically executed with a sharp bend of the arms and a slight lean backward, giving the impression of a freeze in motion.
Points
Pointing is a common gesture in locking, where the dancer extends their arm and points in a specific direction. This movement is often used to emphasize the rhythm of the music or to interact with the audience. Points are executed with precision and are a signature element of the locking style.
Wrist Twirls
Wrist twirls involve rotating the wrists in a circular motion, often in conjunction with other movements. This technique adds a fluid and continuous element to the dance, contrasting with the abruptness of the locks.
The Funky Chicken
The Funky Chicken is a playful and exaggerated movement that involves flapping the arms and moving the body in a chicken-like manner. This move is often incorporated into locking routines to add humor and entertainment value.
Scooby Doo
Named after the popular cartoon character, the Scooby Doo is a hopping movement that involves lifting one knee while hopping on the other foot. This move is often used to transition between different locking movements and adds a dynamic element to the performance.
The Skeeter Rabbit
The Skeeter Rabbit is a hopping movement that involves quick, small jumps from side to side. This move is often used to add energy and rhythm to a locking routine.
The Stop and Go
The Stop and Go is a movement that involves a sudden stop followed by a quick change in direction. This technique is used to create a sense of surprise and unpredictability in a locking performance.
Musical Influence
Locking is closely associated with funk music, which provides the rhythmic and energetic backdrop for the dance. Artists such as James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, and Parliament-Funkadelic have been instrumental in shaping the musical landscape of locking. The syncopated rhythms and strong bass lines of funk music complement the dynamic and expressive nature of the dance, allowing dancers to showcase their creativity and individuality.
Cultural Impact
Locking has had a significant impact on the development of street dance and hip-hop culture. It has influenced various other dance styles, including popping, boogaloo, and breaking. Locking's emphasis on individuality, creativity, and self-expression has resonated with dancers worldwide, leading to its adoption and adaptation in diverse cultural contexts.
The dance form has also played a role in breaking down social and cultural barriers, bringing together individuals from different backgrounds through a shared love of dance and music. Locking's playful and inclusive nature has made it a popular choice for dance battles, performances, and competitions, further cementing its place in the global dance community.
Contemporary Locking Scene
Today, locking continues to thrive as a vibrant and evolving dance form. It is practiced and performed by dancers of all ages and backgrounds, with numerous competitions, workshops, and events dedicated to the style. Locking has also gained recognition in mainstream media, with appearances in music videos, television shows, and films.
The global locking community is characterized by a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, with dancers often collaborating and exchanging ideas to push the boundaries of the style. This spirit of innovation and creativity ensures that locking remains a dynamic and relevant art form in the contemporary dance landscape.