Hey guys! Remember 2020? Yeah, that year! While we were all navigating the craziness, TikTok became our go-to escape. And what made TikTok so addictive? The dances, of course! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the most popular TikTok dances of 2020 that had us all glued to our screens, trying to learn the moves (and probably failing hilariously).

Why TikTok Dances in 2020 Were a Big Deal

Before we dive into the specific dances, let's talk about why they were such a phenomenon. In 2020, the world was grappling with lockdowns and social distancing. TikTok provided a much-needed outlet for creativity, connection, and plain old fun. Dances, in particular, were perfect because they were short, easy to share, and didn't require a ton of fancy equipment or skills. Anyone could participate, and that's what made them so viral. It was a way to feel connected and part of something bigger, even when we were physically isolated. Plus, let's be honest, learning a new dance was a great way to break up the monotony of being stuck at home! From celebrities to your next-door neighbor, everyone was giving these dances a shot, creating a sense of community and shared experience that was incredibly valuable during a challenging time. The simplicity of these dances was also a key factor, and the fact that it didn't require professional equipment or specialized skills contributed significantly to their widespread adoption. People could film dances in their living rooms, backyards, or even kitchens, using just their smartphones and a little bit of creativity. This accessibility lowered the barrier to entry and encouraged more individuals to participate, resulting in the widespread adoption and viral spread of these dances. In addition, the participatory nature of TikTok dances encouraged a sense of collaboration and interaction among users. People would often create their own variations or remixes of existing dances, adding their unique twist and personality to the trend. This participatory dynamic further fueled the spread of TikTok dances, as users were motivated to share their versions and engage with others who were participating in the same challenge. As TikTok dances became more popular, they also began to influence mainstream culture, with celebrities and influencers adopting the trends and incorporating them into their performances, music videos, and social media content. This cross-pollination between TikTok and mainstream culture amplified the reach and impact of these dances, further solidifying their place in the cultural zeitgeist. With that said, let's jump into the dances that defined the year!

The "Renegade" Dance

Okay, let's kick things off with a classic: the "Renegade." This dance, set to the song "Lottery (Renegade)" by K Camp, was THE dance of early 2020. If you were on TikTok back then, you couldn't escape it! The creator, Jalaiah Harmon, initially didn't receive the credit she deserved, but thankfully, that was later rectified, highlighting the importance of recognizing Black creators in the app's culture. The dance itself is a fast-paced series of arm movements and steps that look way harder than they actually are (or maybe that was just me!). Everyone was trying to nail it, and it launched countless careers and solidified TikTok's place as a dance phenomenon. Mastering the "Renegade" dance involved a combination of coordination, rhythm, and practice. The intricate arm movements and footwork required users to pay close attention to detail and synchronize their movements with the beat of the music. Many TikTok users spent hours perfecting their rendition of the dance, watching tutorials, and practicing in front of mirrors to refine their technique. The widespread popularity of the "Renegade" dance also led to the emergence of tutorial videos and challenges, where users would share their tips and tricks for mastering the moves. These videos helped to break down the dance into smaller, more manageable steps, making it easier for beginners to learn and participate. As more and more people joined the "Renegade" dance craze, it became a symbol of TikTok's ability to bring people together and create a shared cultural experience. The dance transcended geographical boundaries and cultural differences, uniting users from all over the world in a common activity. Its influence also extended beyond TikTok, with celebrities and influencers adopting the dance and incorporating it into their performances, music videos, and social media content.

The "Savage" Dance

Next up, we've got the "Savage" dance, choreographed by Keara Wilson, set to Megan Thee Stallion's hit song "Savage." This dance was all about attitude and confidence. It was sassy, it was bold, and it was everywhere. Even Megan Thee Stallion herself joined in on the fun! The "Savage" dance was a perfect blend of empowerment and entertainment, encouraging people to embrace their inner Savage and have fun while doing it. This dance had some more complex moves than the "Renegade", requiring more body rolls and confident poses. The "Savage" dance also presented opportunities for users to express their creativity and individuality. Many TikTok users created their own variations of the dance, adding their unique flair and personality to the moves. Some users incorporated props, costumes, or special effects to enhance their performances, while others experimented with different camera angles and editing techniques to create visually stunning videos. This creative freedom allowed users to put their own spin on the dance and showcase their unique talents, further contributing to its widespread appeal. Moreover, the "Savage" dance became a platform for celebrating body positivity and self-expression. The dance encouraged users to embrace their curves, celebrate their individuality, and exude confidence, regardless of their physical appearance. This message of empowerment resonated with many TikTok users, who used the dance as a way to express their self-love and challenge societal beauty standards. The "Savage" dance also had a significant impact on the music industry, contributing to the popularity of Megan Thee Stallion's song and solidifying her status as a rising star. The dance helped to introduce Megan Thee Stallion's music to a wider audience, particularly among younger demographics, and contributed to the song's commercial success. As a result, the "Savage" dance became a cultural phenomenon that not only entertained but also empowered and inspired people around the world.

The "Cannibal" Dance

This one was a bit darker but equally captivating. The "Cannibal" dance, set to the song "Cannibal" by Kesha, was known for its eerie and slightly unsettling vibe. People used dramatic makeup, dark clothing, and exaggerated movements to create a spooky effect. It was a fun way to embrace the Halloween spirit year-round. The dance involved a lot of sharp, angular movements and facial expressions that conveyed a sense of creepiness and mystery. Despite its dark themes, the "Cannibal" dance was incredibly popular, showcasing TikTok's ability to embrace a wide range of aesthetics and moods. The widespread popularity of the "Cannibal" dance also led to a surge in interest in Kesha's music, particularly her older songs. Many TikTok users who were unfamiliar with Kesha's discography discovered her music through the dance and became fans of her work. This rediscovery of Kesha's music helped to revitalize her career and introduce her to a new generation of listeners. Moreover, the "Cannibal" dance inspired a wave of creativity among TikTok users, who created their own versions of the dance with unique themes and variations. Some users incorporated elements of horror, fantasy, or mythology into their performances, while others experimented with different camera angles, lighting effects, and editing techniques to enhance the eerie atmosphere. The "Cannibal" dance served as a creative outlet for TikTok users, allowing them to express their imaginations and showcase their talents in a visually captivating way. The dance also contributed to the development of a distinct aesthetic on TikTok, characterized by dark themes, dramatic makeup, and unsettling visuals. This aesthetic appealed to a niche audience within the TikTok community, who embraced the macabre and sought out content that challenged conventional beauty standards. As a result, the "Cannibal" dance became a symbol of TikTok's ability to embrace alternative subcultures and provide a platform for unconventional forms of expression. Overall, the "Cannibal" dance was a unique and memorable trend that captured the imagination of TikTok users and left a lasting impact on the platform's culture.

The "Supalonely" Dance

This dance, set to the song "Supalonely" by BENEE ft. Gus Dapperton, was all about feeling down but still having fun with it. It was relatable, quirky, and incredibly catchy. The dance moves were relatively simple, making it easy for anyone to learn and put their own spin on it. People embraced the song's melancholic yet upbeat vibe, creating videos that were both humorous and heartfelt. The "Supalonely" dance became a symbol of resilience and self-acceptance during a challenging time, reminding people that it's okay to feel sad sometimes but that it's also important to find joy in the little things. What made the "Supalonely" dance so popular was its relatability. The song's lyrics resonated with many people who were feeling isolated and lonely during the pandemic, and the dance provided a way to express those feelings in a fun and creative way. The dance also encouraged people to embrace their imperfections and not take themselves too seriously, which was a welcome message during a time of uncertainty and anxiety. The success of the "Supalonely" dance also helped to propel BENEE into the mainstream spotlight. The song gained widespread recognition thanks to the dance trend, and BENEE became one of the breakout stars of 2020. Her music resonated with a younger audience, and she became known for her unique sound and relatable lyrics. The "Supalonely" dance served as a launching pad for her career, and she has since gone on to achieve even greater success. The dance also demonstrated the power of TikTok to discover and promote new music. Many artists have found success on TikTok by creating songs that are catchy and danceable, and the platform has become a major force in the music industry. The "Supalonely" dance is just one example of how TikTok can help to launch careers and introduce new music to a global audience.

The "Blinding Lights" Challenge

Okay, this one wasn't strictly a dance, but it was definitely a movement! Set to The Weeknd's smash hit "Blinding Lights," this challenge involved running or dancing in a public space, often with exaggerated arm movements and a huge smile. It was all about spreading joy and positivity. The "Blinding Lights" challenge was a fun way to break up the monotony of everyday life and inject a little bit of silliness into the world. People got creative with their videos, filming in a variety of locations and incorporating props and costumes to enhance the effect. The challenge became a viral sensation, with people all over the world participating and sharing their own unique versions. The global reach of the "Blinding Lights" challenge highlighted TikTok's ability to connect people from different cultures and backgrounds. People from all over the world participated in the challenge, creating videos that reflected their own unique perspectives and experiences. The challenge became a celebration of diversity and unity, bringing people together through a shared love of music and dance. The success of the "Blinding Lights" challenge also helped to solidify The Weeknd's status as one of the biggest pop stars in the world. The song became a global phenomenon, thanks in part to the viral challenge, and The Weeknd went on to have a successful year, including a memorable performance at the Super Bowl halftime show. The "Blinding Lights" challenge is a testament to the power of music and dance to bring people together and create lasting memories. The challenge was a fun and uplifting way to connect with others, spread joy, and celebrate the power of music.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! A little rewind to the most popular TikTok dances of 2020. These dances weren't just fleeting trends; they were a reflection of the times, a source of joy and connection, and a testament to the power of social media. They reminded us that even in the midst of uncertainty, we could still find ways to express ourselves, connect with others, and have a little fun. Which one was your favorite? Did you try any of these out? Let me know in the comments! And who knows, maybe we'll see some of these dances make a comeback someday. Until then, keep dancing, keep creating, and keep spreading the good vibes! And keep an eye out for the next big TikTok dance craze – you never know when it might hit!