How to Appreciate Hyphy Music

The "Hyphy" movement, which originated in the Bay Area of California, or better known as the "Yay Area," has contributed considerably to the genre of rap music, as well as hip-hop style dancing. Rap artists, such as e40, Too $hort, Turftalk, Keak da Sneak and Mistah Fab have elevated "hyphy" music to a new level. In this article, we will discuss how to "go stupid, dumb and hyphy."

[edit] Steps

  1. Understand the hyphy movement's vocabulary. The phrase "Go stupid/dumb/hyphy" generally refers to a new style of hip hop dance popular among today's youth. More information is available at urbandictionary.com on the vocabulary used in the Hyphy movement.
  2. Accustom yourself to "Hyphy" music. See above for artists worth listening to. Listen to the songs on a system that allows you to crank up the bass and snare, so as to truly appreciate the rhythm and beat of each track.
  3. Remember that this is a very loose form of improvisational dance, and that no move is the "right" move. It is crucial, however, that you are not self conscious. If you are, consumption of various substances, such as alcohol, may be the key to "loosening" you up. Do not get completely drunk, as your motor skills will severely deteriorate and you will only embarrass yourself on the dance floor.
  4. Study the following dance styles on YouTube: "Popping and Locking", "Giggin'", "Turfing", "Walking it out", "Cwalk", and "Thizzin'", which are all considered appropriate dance styles for the Hyphy movement. As you watch the videos, you will notice certain movements and actions that everyone does, or some version of it. This is the soul of the hyphy movement's dance style. You must find yourself within it and bring it out. Again, a drink or two may help.
  5. Make a short video and host it on YouTube anonymously. You can judge by the comments left by others how good you are, or if they don't like it. Take advice from them and tailor your dancing accordingly. Eventually, you will have a 4+ star video on the 'tube and fantastic comments. You will be then ready to "rep" the Hyphy movement.


[edit] Tips

  • Remember, do not get too drunk! Excessive drinking will only lead to clumsy dancing!
  • Certain dance styles the hyphy movement borrows from, such as popping and locking, make the use of fine motor skills in the limbs. Make certain to practice these slowly until you can build up speed.
  • Learn how to glide. There are plenty of tutorials out there available for free. Do not waste your money paying for ridiculous hip-hop DVDs. They will constrict you to choreographed routines that will fall apart in the world of spontaneous dancing.
  • Be sure you are in shape and healthy. This may mean talking to a health professional to ensure you are capable of dancing in this style.
  • Dress the part. Look into hiphop fashions, such as clothing from Against All Odds, and other places.


[edit] Warnings

  • If someone comes up to you on the dance floor and starts dancing aggressively towards you, this can be interpreted as a "challenge of skills." Unless you are of an appropriate dancing caliber, do not dance back unless you wish to be made a fool of.
  • If you do dance back, make sure that you either put him/her in his/her place or stop when appropriate to avoid physical confrontation afterward.
  • Most drugs, if not all, associated with the Hyphy movement are illegal and deteriorating to your dancing skill. Use at your own peril.


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Categories:Music Listening and Appreciation

Authors

Anonymous, Jack H, Ben Rubenstein, Cipher_nemo, Maluniu, Sondra C, Dlpn, Dave Crosby
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