Dab (dance)

Dance move

For other uses, see Dab.

The dab is a simple dance move or gesture in which a person drops their head into the bent crook of a slanted, upwardly angled arm, while raising the opposite arm out straight in a parallel direction. The move is often associated with hip hop music and has become a popular gesture in pop culture.

Origins and Popularity

The dab originated in the hip hop scene in Atlanta, Georgia, during the early 2010s. It is believed to have been popularized by the group Migos, who released a song titled "Look at My Dab" in 2015. The dance move quickly gained traction and became a viral sensation, spreading across social media platforms and being adopted by various celebrities and athletes.

Technique

The dab is performed by:

1. Dropping the head into the bent elbow of one arm.
2. Extending the opposite arm out straight, parallel to the bent arm.

The move is often executed with a quick, sharp motion, and can be incorporated into various dance routines or performed as a standalone gesture.

Cultural Impact

The dab has been used by numerous public figures, including athletes, musicians, and politicians. It has been seen in various settings, from sports events to political rallies. The move's simplicity and visual appeal have contributed to its widespread adoption.

A person performing the dab dance move

In Sports

Athletes have frequently used the dab as a celebratory gesture. Notably, American football player Cam Newton popularized the move in the NFL by performing it after scoring touchdowns. The dab has also been seen in soccer, basketball, and other sports.

In Politics

The dab has even made its way into the political arena. In 2017, Andrew Scheer, a Canadian politician, was photographed dabbing with students at McGill University.

Andrew Scheer dabbing with students at McGill University

Criticism and Controversy

Despite its popularity, the dab has faced criticism and controversy. Some have argued that the move has been overused or misappropriated in certain contexts. Additionally, there have been instances where the dab was deemed inappropriate, such as during solemn occasions or formal events.

Related pages

• Hip hop dance
• Viral phenomenon
• Dance move