dancehall classes in medellIN

As Medellín’s dance community expanded, internationally recognized Afro-descendant and coastal social dance traditions increasingly influenced the local scene. One of the most important of these is dancehall, a globally influential and highly energetic street dance style deeply rooted in the vibrant popular culture and social movements of Jamaica.

What is Dancehall?

Dancehall originated during the late 1970s within the inner-city communities of Kingston, Jamaica, evolving as a direct reflection of shifting political, social, and economic realities. As political climates changed, the slower, spiritually focused roots reggae music transitioned into a faster, digitalized, and heavily bass-driven sound played at local street parties. The corresponding dance culture emerged directly from these outdoor gatherings, where local creators translated the heavy rhythms into distinct social steps. Dancehall developed as a total cultural movement, encompassing music, fashion, language, and community expression.

Unlike structured commercial dance styles, authentic dancehall is characterized by its deep knee bends, low-to-the-ground posture, fluid torso isolations, and intense core control. The dance relies on a foundational groove or bounce, known as the skank, which keeps the body completely connected to the bass line. Dancehall places an absolute premium on community creation, storytelling through physical movement, and individual attitude. Because the dance developed in a social street environment, it prioritizes original step execution, personal flair, and interactive energy over rigid, studio-bound choreography.

Here is some basic information about dancehall to help you get started:

  • The Dance Steps and Creators: Authentic dancehall consists of hundreds of individual, named steps created by local Jamaican dancers and dance crews. These steps serve as the vocabulary of the dance, with iconic moves like the Bogle, Butterfly, Log On, Willie Bounce, Dutty Wine, Gully Creeper, Nuh Linga, and Fling Yuh Shoulders carrying distinct cultural meanings and histories.

  • Ecosystem of Eras: The dance is historically categorized into three distinct eras, each with its own specific style, speed, and musicality. Old School dancehall, spanning the 1980s to the 1990s, emphasizes simple grooves and party steps. Middle School, covering the 2000s, brought faster paces and highly energetic steps. New School, from the 2010s onward, incorporates smooth fusions, complex technical coordination, and rapid athletic concepts.

  • The Street Party and Clashes: Dancehall culture is centered around outdoor street events, sound system sessions, and dance battles. Dancers use these spaces to showcase newly invented steps, compete in good-natured clashes, and interact directly with selectas and artists who shout out specific movements in real time.

  • Global Urban Influence: Due to its immense commercial success, dancehall has directly shaped the international urban landscape. Its rhythms and movement mechanics form the structural basis for modern hip-hop choreography, commercial pop routines, African Afro-dance fusions, and Latin American reggaeton.

  • Iconic Figures and Artists: The worldwide spread of the genre has been fueled by legendary vocalists and recording artists including Yellowman, Shabba Ranks, Super Cat, Buju Banton, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Sean Paul, Vybz Kartel, Mavado, Spice, and Popcaan.

Medellin’s Historical Connection to Dancehall

Dancehall dancing has been gaining popularity in Medellín, Colombia, as part of the global rise of urban and Afro-Caribbean dance styles. Originating in Jamaica in the late 1970’s, dancehall evolved as both a musical genre and a dance style, deeply rooted in reggae and influenced by the vibrant street culture of Kingston. Dancehall dancing is known for its expressive, energetic, and rhythmic movements, often characterized by fluid isolations, quick footwork, and powerful body control. Over the years, it has gained international recognition, influencing hip hop, Afrobeat, and Latin urban dance styles.

As dancehall music and culture spread worldwide, Medellín became one of the many cities where dancehall gained a strong following. Recognizing this growing interest, DANCEFREE began offering private dancehall classes, in person in Medellín, Colombia and online from anywhere in the world, providing dancers with the opportunity to learn authentic steps, grooves, and freestyle techniques. Today, dancehall continues to be a key part of urban dance culture in Medellín, attracting dancers who appreciate its energy, creativity, and connection to Caribbean music.

Class Schedule & Pricing in Medellin

DANCEFREE offers private dancehall classes in person in Medellín, Colombia, and online via Zoom and Google Meet. Our in-person classes are available 7 days a week, while our online classes are on weekdays only, subject to availability.

We have experienced dancehall instructors who teach students at all levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. If you would like to take private dancehall classes, click here to view the steps for beginning private classes.