Alaysha Harden
Throughout the 2010s, there have been many artists and public figures who have created dances that took the internet. Whether they intended for the dance to become popular or if a commoner made it go viral, these dances have become a part of our culture. The rise of social media and technological access in the 2010s allowed the everyday person to participate in viral dances and potentially go viral as well. Let’s see how many of these dances you remember doing!
2010
The dougie popularized by “Teach Me How to Dougie” by Cali Swag District
The Jerk from “You’re a Jerk” by The New Boyz
2011
“Bernie Lean” by ATM & IMD
“Cat Daddy” by Rej3ctz
2012
“Gangnam Style” by Psy
2013
“Harlem Shake” by Baauer
This song was the start of an ever expanding impact of viral internet dances. Not only were people of all ages recording and posting their own versions of dances, but celebrities began to participate in the fun.
Twerking goes mainstream with Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke’s 2013 VMA performance
Despite “Blurred Lines” being a song that suggests that consent is not clear and can be assumed when under the influence, the song was successful enough for a performance. This crossover was also a moment where Miley Cyrus continued her streak of attempting to be “black” and sent modern America into a moral panic with her "twerking."
“Red Nose” by Sage The Gemini
2014
Shmoney Dance from Bobby Shmurda’s self incriminating song
2015
The Whip and Nae Nae was brought back into popularity by “Watch Me Whip/Nae Nae” by Silento
“Look at My Dab” by Migos
“Hit the Quan” by iLoveMemphis
Matuidi Charo’s soccer/ futbol celebration dance was popularized by the ending of a French rapper Niska’s song “Freestyle PSG” which features Rako, Brigi, Trafiquinte, and Madrane.
“Milly Rock” by 2 Milly
The Milly Rock was further popularized by Playboi Carti’s song “Magnolia."