LOCKing

Introduction

Locking (originally Campbellocking) is a style of funk dance and street dance, which is today also associated with Hip-Hop. It relies on fast and distinct arm and hand movements combined with more relaxed hips and legs. The movements are generally large and exaggerated, and often very rhythmic and tightly synced with the music.

The name is based on the concept of Locking movements, which basically means freezing from a fast movement and "locking" in a certain position, holding that position for a short while and then continuing in the same speed as before.These movements create a strong contrast towards the many fast moves that are otherwise performed quite continuously, combine with mime style performance and acting towards the audience and other dancers.

History

The beginning of Locking can be traced to one man, Don Campbell. He put together several fad dances adding moves on his own (notably the "Lock") when performing.

The original lock was created by accident: Don Campbell couldn't do a move called the "Robot Shuffle" and stopped at a particular point. He wasn't able to perform it fluently because he couldn't remember which step to take next. These halts soon became popular as Don added them into his performances.

The resulting dance was called Campbellocking, which was later shortened to Locking.

Moves

Locking maybe done in solo or in unison with two or more dancers doing steps or handshakes together. A Locking dancer may smile while performing to emphasize the comical nature of the dance.

Some important stylistic features are waving of arms, pointing, walking stationary and grabbing and rotating the cap or hat. Don Campbell created the original freezes, incorporating his unique rhythm and adding gestures such as points and handclaps.

Other dancers also adapted this style while adding some of the steps and moves, such as The Skeeter Rabbit, Stop and Go, Scooby Doo, Whichaway etc.

Some main basic motions: Twisting, The Uncle Sam's Point, Scooby Doo, Cross hand, Scoobot and Scuba.

Clothes

Consist of loud striped socks, pegged pants that stopped at the knees, bright colourful satin shirts with big collars, big colorful bow ties, gigantic Apple Boy hats and white gloves.

The most famous Locking dancers: Hilty & Bosch (Japan)