what is uprock

Uprock is a soulful, competitive street dance. It was developed in the Bushwick area of Brooklyn between 1967 and 1968 by two men; Rubberband Man and Apache. Uprock is danced in synchronization to the rhythms of Soul and Funk music; and certain Rock songs. The dance consists of foot shuffles, spins, turns, freestyle movements, sudden body movements called "jerks", and hand gestures called "burns". The "Uprock" dance involves two or more dancers, single or as a team, dancing alternatively or simultaneously, performing what is called a dance battle (-Breakeasy).Uprockers battle throughout the duration of a complete song (from the beginning to the end) in a line formation called the "Apache Line". The Apache Line allows two opposing dancers or crews to face each other and execute their "burn" gestures towards one another. Although Uprockers sometimes emulate fight moves with their "burns", physical contact is never allowed. Physical contact is usually a sign of inexperience. If an Uprocker is experienced he or she will not make any physical contact in order to "Burn" his or her opponent. Experienced Uprockers are also familiar with the songs that they dance to, and they use the lyrics and sounds of the music to out-do their opponent. Uprock is mastered with discipline, patience, heart, soul, and knowledge. In order to grasp the essence of the dance and become a good Uprocker, one must become familiar with the HISTORY of Uprock.