What Is Crip Walking?

Crip walking, also known as C-walking, is a type of dance that originated in the African-American communities of Los Angeles in the 1960s and 1970s. The dance is closely related to gang culture, particularly that of the Crips gang from which the dance gets its name. The dance itself is characterized by body movements that are precise, intricate and often imitative of a stroll. It is an elaborately choreographed and highly stylized activity that often requires significant practice and dedication to perfect.

The Origins of Crip Walking

The Crip Walk has its roots in dances that have been around for centuries, such as the lindy hop. It is an evolution of these earlier dances, with its own particular moves and styles. The exact origins of the Crip Walk are still disputed, but what is known is that it emerged in the black communities of Los Angeles in the late 1960s. It is closely associated with the activities of the West Side Crips gang, although other Crip gangs from different areas of the city also claim to have contributed to the evolution of the dance.

The Significance of Crip Walking

For those involved in the Crip gang subculture, the Crip Walk had a very distinct significance. It was not just a way of displaying skill and artistry, but also a statement of identity. It was a way for individual members to show their allegiance to their gang and to demonstrate the strength and solidarity of their community. Despite its negative associations, for many generations of African Americans the Crip Walk was a source of pride and identity.

Today, Crip walking has gained a wider audience beyond the Crips gang culture and continues to evolve into more intricate and creative forms. Although the move is often criticized by outsiders, it is clear that the Crip Walk has played an important role in the evolution of street dance culture and is likely to continue to do so for many years to come.