Disco Dance

Disco dance is a style of dance highly dependent on disco music. Disco music consists of strong, rising vocals over a steady beat and bass line. If you are familiar with disco dance, you probably remember performers and bands such as Donna Summer, Amanda Lear, The Bee Gees, KC and the Sunshine Band, Chic, and The Jacksons. During the 1970's, disco clubs were abundant and alive with disco dancers.

Disco Dance Characteristics

Disco dance is moving to music in your own way while wearing disco-inspired clothing. Disco consists of steps and moves performed in time to the beat of disco music. Some common elements of disco dance include side-stepping in between bigger moves, raising your arms overhead, large hip and pelvic movements, and twisting your hands in time to the beat. A few common disco dance steps include pivot turns, foot stamps, and shoulder rocks. One classic disco dance is the Hustle, as seen in "Saturday Night Fever."

Disco Dance History

Disco dance emerged during the 1970s, reaching its popularity peak with the release of the blockbuster film "Saturday Night Fever." Latin dances such as the samba, cha cha, and tango inspired many of the popular disco moves. One of the pioneers of disco dance was Tom Moulton, who some believe reinvented disco music to be better suited for choreography. Disco music influenced electronic dance music and house music. It has had several revivals.

Popular Disco Dance Songs

If you're hosting a disco dance party, here are classics to include on the playlist.

• I Love the Nightlife
• Le Freak
• Macho Man
• Y.M.C.A.
• Play That Funky Music
• Celebration
• We Are Family
• Boogie Fever
• Stayin' Alive
• Get Down Tonight
• I Will Survive
• I'm Your Boogie Man
• Dancing Queen
• Shake Your Booty
• Boogie Oogie Oogie
• Dance, Dance, Dance
• It's a Disco Night
• Boogie Wonderland

Disco Dance Clothing for Women

Wondering how to dress for an upcoming disco party? Disco is a dance style that allows you to show your attitude, your dreams, and just go crazy. With disco, anything goes.

For women, disco is a time to show a little skin. Don't be afraid to wear sexy slitted skirts and flashy tops. Rhinestones and bangles will make you stand out in the crowd. Slip on a pair of flashy stiletto heels, and you will look like a disco queen. Don't forget to complete your glamorous look by piling on the makeup.

Ideas to get you started:

• white straight-legged jeans
• tight high-slitted skirts
• fitted low-cut blouses
• unlined linen jackets
• anything in silk
• high heels
• thick, flashy belts
• silk scarves
• costume jewelry

Disco Dance Clothing for Men

For men, disco is a time for you to be glamorous, too. Pull out your tailored three-piece suit. Reach to the back of your closet and slip on your flimsiest, shiniest shirt and hip-hugging shiny pants. If you feel like a peacock, you have the right idea.

Ideas to get you started:

• dark slim pants
• pinstriped cotton shirts
• three-piece suits
• tapered leather pants
• cotton t-shirts with pocket
• nylon jogging suits
• white lace-up oxfords
• untied silk neckties