Waacking

What is Waacking?

Waacking is a freestyle dance style where dancers move their arms in rapid, circular patterns above and around the shoulders, often pausing in dramatic poses. The dance is known for its theatrical flair, with performers using facial expressions and gestures inspired by classic film stars. While it can be danced alone or as part of a group, each dancer brings their own personality and interpretation. The music is usually upbeat disco or post-disco, which matches the energetic and expressive movement.

Where does Waacking come from?

Waacking grew out of the Los Angeles club scene in the early 1970s, especially among LGBTQ+ dancers. It started as punking, a term reclaimed from a slur, and featured a move called 'whack'—swinging the arms rhythmically overhead. To avoid negative associations, the name shifted to waackin, and later became waacking. The style remained mostly within clubs until it appeared on television shows like Soul Train, helping it reach a wider audience. Over time, waacking has been adopted by dance schools and featured in international competitions.

How is Waacking danced?

The dance is marked by swift, rotating arm movements, sharp stops, and striking poses. Dancers use their upper bodies to create lines and shapes, often mimicking the elegance of old Hollywood stars. There is a strong emphasis on musicality, with gestures and poses timed to the beat or lyrics. While the arms are the focus, dancers also use footwork and body angles to add dynamics. The style encourages improvisation and self-expression, so no two performances look exactly the same.

The music of Waacking

Waacking is most often performed to disco tracks from the 1970s and early 1980s, sometimes sped up to boost the energy. The music’s driving beat supports the dance’s quick, rhythmic arm movements and dramatic pauses. While disco is the traditional choice, some dancers use post-disco or other upbeat genres. The connection between movement and music is central, with dancers interpreting the rhythm and mood through their bodies.

Costume and what is carried

Dancers often take inspiration from the glamour of classic Hollywood, wearing stylish or flamboyant outfits that allow for free arm movement. Accessories and bold makeup may be used to enhance facial expressions and poses. The clothing is chosen to reflect personal style and to highlight the dramatic quality of the dance, but there is no fixed costume.

When and where Waacking is danced

Waacking began in nightclubs and social gatherings, where it was a way for dancers to express themselves and connect with others. Today, it is performed on stage, in competitions, and sometimes taught in university dance programs. The style is open to anyone and is often passed on through workshops, battles, and classes, both in person and online.

Styles of Waacking

Over time, waacking has absorbed elements from jazz, gymnastics, and martial arts, and each dancer may bring their own influences. The style has also been shaped by pop culture, with some routines borrowing moves from cartoons or ice dance. Regional and individual variations exist, but the core remains expressive arm movement and posing.

What Waacking means

Waacking is closely tied to LGBTQ+ history and club culture in Los Angeles. It has become a symbol of self-expression and resilience, moving from underground spaces to mainstream recognition. The dance has appeared on television and in international competitions, and continues to evolve as new generations reinterpret its style. Its influence can be seen in figure skating, animation, and popular music videos.

Questions people ask about Waacking

Good reading and sources

• Waacking on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Waacking on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo