Introduction
In the world of Locking, a funk-inspired dance style that emerged from the streets of Los Angeles, one move stands out as a celebration of self-expression and individuality. The “Giving Yourself Five” move, also known as “Asking for Five,” is a quintessential part of the Locking repertoire. This gesture not only acknowledges the dancer’s own skills and presence but also pays homage to the roots of the dance form and the pioneers who paved the way.
Video Demonstration
Dance History
The origins of “Giving Yourself Five” can be traced back to Don “Campbellock” Campbell, the creator of Locking. In the early days of the dance style, Campbell would often incorporate hand gestures and slaps into his routines as a way to interact with the audience and fellow dancers. One of these gestures involved extending his hand, as if asking for a high-five, and then slapping his own hand in acknowledgment. This move quickly became a signature element of Locking, symbolizing the dancer’s confidence and self-appreciation.
Step By Step Instruction
1. Start in a relaxed stance, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
2. Raise your right arm, bending it at the elbow, and extend your hand outward, palm facing down.
3. Pause for a moment, holding the extended hand position, and make eye contact with your audience or fellow dancers.
4. Swiftly bring your left hand up and slap your right palm with a sharp, audible clap.
5. Maintain a confident and expressive facial expression throughout the move.
6. Optionally, you can repeat the move with the opposite hand or incorporate it into a larger Locking sequence.
Tips For Learning
– Exaggerate the hand movements and facial expressions to add more impact and personality to the move. – Practice the timing of the hand slap to ensure it is sharp and precise. – Experiment with different arm positions and body angles to find the variation that suits your style best. – Incorporate the move into your Locking routines, using it as a punctuation mark or a transition between other moves. – Embrace the spirit of self-expression and confidence that the move represents.
Conclusion
The “Giving Yourself Five” move is a testament to the essence of Locking – a dance style that celebrates individuality, funk, and self-love. By mastering this iconic gesture, dancers can pay homage to the pioneers who shaped the art form while adding their own unique flair and personality. Whether performed as a standalone move or integrated into a larger routine, “Giving Yourself Five” remains a timeless and empowering expression of the Locking spirit.
More Locking Dance Moves
The “Which A Way” Locking Move
The “Which A Way” is a classic locking dance move that involves a smooth, rhythmic rotation of the hips and torso, creating an illusion of the body moving in multiple directions simultaneously. Originated by Damita Jo Freeman in the 1970s, this signature move perfectly captures the essence of locking, showcasing the dancer’s ability to isolate and control various body parts while maintaining a cool, funky vibe.
Unleash Your Swagger: Mastering the Iconic Pimp Walk in Locking
The Pimp Walk, a stylized and captivating movement that exudes confidence and attitude, has become an iconic staple in the Locking dance style. Originating from the exaggerated swagger of zoot-suited men in Harlem, this move embodies swagger, attitude, and self-expression, transcending generations and cultures within the dance world.
Mastering the Locking Point: A Funky and Animated Move
The locking point is a fundamental and iconic move in the locking dance style, originating from the early days when dancers would point at audience members or friends to acknowledge their appreciation. Over time, it evolved into a signature move, incorporating various techniques and styles to make it more dynamic and expressive. Mastering the locking point involves extending the arm with precision, adding flair and animation through wrist rolls, torso twists, and facial expressions, all while maintaining the funk and attitude that defines this unique dance form.
Unleash Your Funk: Mastering the Iconic Leo Walk
The Leo Walk, a quintessential move in the world of Locking, combines rhythmic footwork with expressive hip movements, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. Created by Leo Lundy, one of the original Lockers, this dynamic step showcases the dancers’ rhythmic precision and stylistic flair, embodying the funk-inspired essence of the Locking dance style.
Unlock the Rhythm: Mastering the Pacing Move in Locking Dance
The Pacing move, derived from the Latin word “passus” meaning “to stretch,” is a fundamental technique in the Locking dance style. It involves stretching out the arms in a rhythmic pattern, creating a visual representation of the music’s beat and serving as the backbone that drives the rhythm and timing of a Locking routine.
Unleash Your Funky Side: Mastering the Locking Scoobot Move
The Scoobot is a dynamic and playful locking move that combines elements of the classic robot dance with the smooth and funky style of locking. Originating from the creative minds of locking pioneers, this move showcases the dancer’s ability to transition seamlessly between robotic and fluid movements, adding a touch of humor and personality to any routine. By mastering the blend of precise robotic gestures and smooth locking elements, dancers can unleash their funky side and captivate audiences with this iconic and crowd-pleasing move.
Master the Funky Scooby Doo: A Locking Dance Move with Personality
The Scooby Doo, a locking dance move created by Jimmy “Scoo B Doo” Foster, is a funky and playful step that combines arm locks, kicks, and stomps. With its distinctive movements and comical flair, this move has become a staple in the locking community, allowing dancers to showcase their personality and funk.
Master the Funky Skeeter Rabbit: A Locking Dance Move Masterclass
The Skeeter Rabbit is a classic locking dance move that originated in the 1970s, created by James “Skeeter Rabbit” Higgins. This intricate footwork pattern combines kicks, hops, and shuffles, showcasing the unique groove and syncopated rhythms of the locking style. With its distinctive arm movements and funky essence, the Skeeter Rabbit has become an iconic move in the hip-hop dance community.
Mastering the Sneak: A Classic Locking Move
The Sneak, also known as the Seek, is a smooth and controlled movement that showcases the essence of locking – freezing from a fast motion into a stationary position. This classic move originated in the early days of locking and quickly became a staple, often seen on the iconic dance show “Soul Train.” By mastering the Sneak, dancers can build a strong foundation in locking and incorporate it into more complex routines and performances.
Master the Funky “Stop N Go” – A Locking Dance Move That Oozes Swagger
The “Stop N’ Go” is a quintessential locking dance move that involves freezing in place and then seamlessly transitioning back into motion, creating a mesmerizing contrast of stillness and fluidity. Originating from locking pioneer Scoo B Doo, this funky and rhythmic move is a must-learn for anyone looking to add serious swagger to their locking repertoire.
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