We’ve all witnessed at least one. You know, those timeless dance numbers you expect to see at a big social occasion. Weddings are renowned for them. The minute the music starts, any large group of people, no matter how well they know one another immediately squeal with delight and start jiggling to the music.
Here’s our top 7 all time favourite dance routines. You know you want to dance just reading about them.
The Nutbush Tina Turner’s classic hit Nutbush City Limits (1970) brings synchronised dancing to new heights. This one is a definite wedding pleaser and the moves are surprisingly simple.
The Chicken Dance(1980). Little ones love this one and mum and dad quickly find their feet when they see their children having such fun. Dah Nah Nah Nah Nah Nah Nah. The moves aren’t tricky either – just pretend you’re a chicken. This classic has been around since the 1950s and remains a staple. The original song, written by Werner Thomas of Switzerland, was titled “Der Ententanz” which translates to The Duck Dance. The song has also been know as Dance Little Bird, The Birdie Dance and other poultry titles.
The Zorba We’d all like to visit Greece, especially during the colder months. Now you can have that cultural experience in your own living room. The Zorba (1998) starts slow and leaves you perspiring. The Zorba creates a linked arms circle allowing you to see everyone at the party. You can eye off all your friends and family one by one and shoot them a smile while dancing to the Greek (techno) classic.
Thriller One for the true MJ fans. Michael Jackson’s Thriller (1982) is a favourite to say the least, but only the true fanatics have his trademark dance moves nailed. Although I must admit, Jackson’s complex choreography doesn’t scare people away from giving it a damn good go. Here’s a tip – there are three main moves in this choreography; the hunch shuffle, above head hand-clap and the side step bob. If you can master these, you’re half way there.
Macarena Crossing the globe again, we can thank the Spanish for the mostly upper-body dance The Macarena (1994).This dance can be carried out with quite low intensity, good for those who are simmering down from a big night of all of the above.
Grease Lightening This one will have you slicking your hair back and popping your collar. Grease Lightening (1978) isn’t going anywhere in a hurry and I am yet to meet someone who doesn’t like it. Grease brought new fans to the music scene and continues to bring fans to the dance floor.
Time Warp Another dance classic featured in a popular musical is The Time Warp (1973).It’s fun to imagine everyone on the dance floor as a ghost or ghoul. Better yet, throw a Halloween party and have the real deal.
Hopefully this post has given you fond flash backs and even a few giggles remembering your own dance moves. Now to plan the playlist for your next party, I’d be surprised to hear it was a dull one if you’re using these songs.
Have we left any out? What’s on your classic dance floor routine list?
Benita Sullivan – Administration Assistant and Marketing Representative - NIYPAA
Benita is currently working in the Melbourne office for NIYPAA. Her early back ground in music and performance stretches from musicals, to choir, singing and instrumental training. She has been managing and playing with Melbourne bands for the last eight years. She is a singer song writer, developing her latest band Elliot Friend. She looks forward to a successful career in creative arts administration while persisting in her musical endeavours.
