By SLEEK Jamaica
In Jamaica, dance isn’t just movement—it’s a language, a lifestyle, and a legacy. Over the years, dancehall culture has given rise to unforgettable moves that didn’t just dominate the dancefloor—they inspired entire songs. From street corners in Kingston to stages around the globe, these iconic moves have become cultural symbols, immortalized through music. Here are 8 legendary Jamaican dance moves that gave birth to hit tracks.
1. Bogle – “Bogle” by Buju Banton
No list could begin without the late, great Gerald “Bogle” Levy. Known as the godfather of dancehall dancing, his signature move—“The Bogle”—swept the nation in the ’90s and was honored by Buju Banton in his classic track “Bogle.” The move’s rhythmic shoulder rolls and fluid hand gestures made it a mainstay in dancehall culture and beyond.
2. Pon Di River – “Pon Di River, Pon Di Bank” by Elephant Man
A global anthem for partygoers, this move captured the energy of early-2000s dancehall. Elephant Man not only turned the move into a song, but also created a visual identity for the dance. With its foot taps and dramatic arm gestures, “Pon Di River” became a crossover sensation—performed on BET, in clubs, and even at school dances.
3. Gully Creeper – “Gully Creepa” by Elephant Man
Another Elephant Man classic, the “Gully Creeper” took off thanks to its crouched, creeping movement, echoing the energy of Kingston’s streets. The dance went international when Usain Bolt performed it after winning gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, solidifying its place in both sports and pop culture history.
4. Dutty Wine – “Dutty Wine” by Tony Matterhorn
The “Dutty Wine” was more than just a dance—it was a phenomenon. With head-spinning motion and intense neck rolls, the move became the subject of viral videos and global debate. Tony Matterhorn’s track captured the raw energy of the dance, and for a time, you couldn’t go to a party without hearing someone scream “Do the Dutty Wine!”
5. Wacky Dip – “Wacky Dip” by Voicemail
A tribute to Bogle, whose nickname was “Mr. Wacky,” the “Wacky Dip” was a playful, expressive dance that encouraged freedom and flow. Voicemail’s tribute track made sure his legacy lived on, blending catchy lyrics with a move that felt like a celebration of life itself.
6. Signal Di Plane – “Signal Di Plane” by Elephant Man
A call to the skies, this iconic move saw dancers throwing up their arms as if signaling a departing plane. With military precision and carnival-like flair, “Signal Di Plane” energized dance floors worldwide. Elephant Man’s song took the move from local party circles to MTV and beyond.
7. Willie Bounce – “Willie Bounce” by Elephant Man
Named after selector Oneil “Willie Haggart” of the Stone Love sound system, the Willie Bounce is a slow, steady rock of the body with a bounce that carries attitude. The track, produced by Elephant Man, gave the dance a soundtrack that echoed in every dancehall session.
8. Row Di Boat – “Row Di Boat” by Elephant Man
Another playful and imaginative move, “Row Di Boat” was exactly what it sounded like—mimicking the action of rowing. Paired with Elephant Man’s energetic delivery, the dance brought out smiles, synchronized group moves, and a feeling of unity on the dancefloor.
Dancehall: Where Movement Meets Music
In Jamaican culture, dance and music are inseparable. The dancehall scene has shown the world that a move can become a message, and that message can become a hit song. These dances are more than just trends—they’re milestones in Jamaica’s rich cultural timeline.
So, next time you’re skanking at a party or watching a dancehall video, remember: behind every move, there’s a beat—and behind every beat, a legacy.
This dance was created by late dancer David Smith popularity known as “Ice” of the legendary Black Roses Crew and is arguably among the most visually unique and physically demanding singular moves in Dancehall. it was further popularized by Elephant Man.
Elephant Man again struck “gold” following the release of songs based on both “Nuh Linga” and “Sweep” by the Raver Clavers. The dances, which share almost identical movements in their steps of a swaying or sweeping motion of the feet alternatingly were exciting yet simple enough grooves that allowed everyone to follow.
Easily one of the most globally recognisable dances synonymous with Dancehall, “Pon De River“ not only became a local favourite following its creation by John Hype but also inspired the “cross over” hit by Elephant Man as the move continued its international popularity.
Created over 20 years ago, “Willie Bounce” remains a signature dance reference to the culture on the international level as a testament to its uniqueness and utility across genres.
Another signature salute to dance culture is the “Bogle Dance“. Named after its creator, this move incorporates a subtle shoulder rock while swinging the arms upwards in a circular pattern made for an eye-catching groove and has become a staple for throwback-themed dance choreographies.
The dance was further popularized as the base for Buju Banton’s 1991 song-“Bogle Dance“
In terms of catchiness and utility, One Drop ranks high among standout dances geared toward female dancers, with moves a variations of stomps mixed with respective freestyle routines which yielded creative combinations of base step or drop. Dancehall star “QQ” reiterated this in the corresponding track of his 2018 hit “One Drop.”
A homage to the “Godfather” of dancing Bogle who also went by the moniker “Mr . Wacky,” the dance was often paired with another of his signature dance moves “Willie Bounce,” which was emphasized by Vociemail’s hit “Wacky Dip.“
Dancehall star Masicka also paid homage to the dance and its creator in his recent 2023 “Tyrant”.
