Steve Martin Dance: How to Do the 80s Hip Hop Move (by Stezo)

Introduction

The Steve Martin is a classic hip-hop dance move that emerged in the late 1980s and quickly became a staple in the party dance scene. This energetic and dynamic move, named after the famous comedian Steve Martin, involves a series of intricate footwork and body movements that create a visually striking and rhythmic display. The Steve Martin dance move has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved and widely recognized part of hip-hop culture to this day.

Video Demonstration

Dance History of The Steve Martin

The Steve Martin dance move was created by the late hip-hop dancer and rapper Stezo, who hailed from Connecticut. Stezo introduced the move in the late 1980s, and it quickly gained popularity, appearing in music videos and dance battles across the country. The move's name is a nod to the comedian Steve Martin, known for his eccentric and energetic performances.

Stezo's creation, the Steve Martin, was featured prominently in the music video for EPMD's hit song "You Gots to Chill" in 1988, helping to propel the dance move into the mainstream. Stezo's influence extended beyond just the Steve Martin; he also wrote and performed the song "Steve Martin" on EPMD's album "Strictly Business," further cementing his legacy in hip-hop history.

Step By Step Instruction

1. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.

2. Shift your weight to your right foot and kick your left leg out to the side, bending your knee.

3. Bring your left foot back to the starting position, shifting your weight to the left foot.

4. Repeat the same movement with your right leg, kicking it out to the side and bending your knee.

5. Continue alternating the kick-out motion with each leg, adding a slight bounce or hop for emphasis.

6. Incorporate arm movements by swinging your arms in opposition to your leg movements, creating a fluid and dynamic motion.

7. Vary the speed and intensity of the movements to add personal flair and style.

Tips For Learning The Steve Martin

• Start slowly and focus on mastering the basic footwork pattern before adding arm movements or increasing speed.

• Practice in front of a mirror to ensure proper form and alignment.

• Incorporate the Steve Martin into longer dance sequences or routines to improve flow and transitions.

• Watch videos of experienced dancers performing the move to observe nuances and variations.

• Have fun with it! The Steve Martin is an energetic and expressive dance move, so let your personality shine through.

Conclusion

The Steve Martin dance move is a true classic in the world of hip-hop dance. Its enduring popularity and widespread recognition are a testament to its infectious energy and the creativity of its creator, Stezo. Whether performed in a dance battle, at a party, or as part of a choreographed routine, the Steve Martin continues to captivate audiences and inspire dancers of all levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Steve Martin dance?

The Steve Martin is a late-1980s hip hop dance move built on alternating side kicks with a bouncy knee bend and opposing arm swings. Created by rapper and dancer Stezo from Connecticut, it was named as a nod to the comedian Steve Martin's eccentric, high-energy performance style, not because Steve Martin himself invented it.

Who created the Steve Martin dance?

Stezo, a Connecticut-based rapper and dancer, created the Steve Martin dance in the late 1980s. He debuted the move in the music video for EPMD's "You Gots to Chill" (1988) and later recorded a song called "Steve Martin" on EPMD's album "Strictly Business," which cemented his legacy in hip hop dance history.

Is the Steve Martin dance related to the comedian?

Only by name. The comedian Steve Martin didn't create or perform the dance. Stezo named the move after him as a tribute to Martin's eccentric, physical comedy style. The dance itself is a hip hop footwork move that has no connection to Steve Martin's actual stand-up or film work.

How long does it take to learn the Steve Martin dance?

Most beginners can pick up the basic alternating side-kick pattern in 15–20 minutes. Syncing the arm swings to the kicks takes another 30–45 minutes of practice. To make it look crisp and confident (instead of stiff) usually takes a few sessions.

What's the most common mistake with the Steve Martin?

Kicking too high. The Steve Martin isn't a karate kick. The leg should extend out naturally at knee-to-shin level, driven by the bounce in the supporting leg. Beginners who kick high lose the bounce rhythm and the move stops looking like hip hop.

More Hip Hop Dance Moves

If you liked the Steve Martin, these moves share the same 80s late-night party energy and alternating footwork pattern:

• How to Do the Roger Rabbit Hip Hop Dance Move: another cartoon-inspired 80s move that uses a loose, bouncy stance and playful exaggerated arm swings similar to the Steve Martin's kick-and-swing rhythm.
• How to Do the Running Man Hip Hop Dance Move: a late-80s New Jersey staple that also alternates legs with pumping arms, making it a natural companion move from the same era.
• 5 Easy Steps To Learn The Cabbage Patch Dance: originated in the same 80s golden-age party scene and pairs well as a combo move since the arm circles contrast the Steve Martin's leg-dominant kicks.
• How to Do the Smurf Hip Hop Dance Move: another cartoon-named 80s/90s party move built on alternating arm swings with a consistent bounce, paralleling the Steve Martin's pop-culture humor and rhythm structure.