Two distinct funk dance styles from 1970s California that became synonymous through street dance culture and experienced massive visibility through viral videos, competition shows, and robotics memes in the 2010s.
The Styles (They’re Different!)
Popping: Quick muscle contractions creating a “hit” or “pop” effect, pioneered by Boogaloo Sam (Sam Solomon) and the Electric Boogaloos in Fresno, 1977. Subtypes: animation, botting, strutting, tutting, waving.
Locking: Freeze poses (“locks”) with pointed gestures, created by Don Campbell (The Lockers) in LA, 1969. High-energy, comedic, “funky chicken” vibes. Signature: pointing, muscle man pose, lock position.
Common confusion: Often said together but they’re separate styles, different pioneers, different eras.
2010s Visibility
- YouTube tutorials: Marquese Scott (WHZGUD2) viral dubstep popping videos 2011-2013
- SYTYCD: Popping battles (Twitch, Fik-Shun), technique showcased to mainstream
- Robots and mimes: Street performers, viral busker videos, TimesSquare performers
- America’s Best Dance Crew: Quest Crew, Poreotics, Electric Boogaloos legacy
Cultural Significance
Bridge between old-school funk era and modern street dance. Influenced:
- Breakdancing (footwork transitions)
- Dubstep dance trend (2011-2013)
- Animation and robotics performance art
- Hip-hop choreography (tutting, hitting poses)
Key Figures
Popping: Boogaloo Sam, Popin’ Pete, Mr. Wiggles, Salah, Marquese Scott
Locking: Don Campbell, Greg “Campbellock” Pope Jr., Toni Basil (yes, “Mickey” singer)
Related
- #Breakdancing, #FunkMusic, #StreetDance, #Tutting, #ElectricBoogaloo