Booty clapping, also known as ass-clapping, is a dance move within the broader style of twerking, characterized by making the butt cheeks clap together through rhythmic shaking or movement, typically performed to music. This move has gained prominence in contemporary music videos, live performances, and social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. Rooted in African and African American dance traditions, booty clapping emerged as a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s, particularly tied to the bounce music scene in New Orleans.[1]
Booty clapping is a subset of twerking, a dance style with origins in African and African American communities. It likely began in New Orleans in the early 1990s as part of the bounce music scene, a hip-hop sub-genre known for its energetic rhythms and call-and-response vocals.[2] The move draws from West African dances like the mapouka from Ivory Coast, which were adapted in the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade.[2] The term "twerking" may stem from "to work" or a blend of "twist" and "jerk," reflecting its dynamic nature.[1]
Booty clapping involves specific techniques to create the characteristic clapping sound. Below are common methods:[3]
Basic Booty Clap: Stand with feet under hips, rise onto toes, and bounce up and down to make cheeks clap, keeping legs together and body relaxed.
Advanced Booty Clap: Spread legs shoulder-width apart, rotate heels side to side, isolate leg movement, and alternate knee rotations inward and outward.
Bent-Knee Booty Clap: Straighten legs, move knees in opposite directions, push hips back when knees go inward, and swing forward when outward.
Practice is key, especially for smaller body types, with tips including using a wall for balance and wearing stretchy clothing like tights.[3]
Cultural Significance and Controversies
Booty clapping has become a notable element of popular culture, featured in songs like "Anaconda" by Nicki Minaj and performances by artists such as Rihanna and Jennifer Lopez. Social media platforms have amplified its visibility, with millions of twerking videos shared online.[1] Some view it as empowering, particularly for women, with artists like Lizzo highlighting its role in body positivity.[2]
However, the dance has sparked controversy, with critics labeling it sexually suggestive or vulgar, leading to bans in some schools and public venues. Others defend it as a legitimate form of self-expression, reflecting broader debates about dance and morality.[4]
Health Benefits
Twerking, including booty clapping, offers physical benefits, engaging core muscles, hamstrings, lower back, and glutes. It burns approximately 5–8 calories per minute for a 150-pound person, totaling 300–480 calories per hour—comparable to power yoga or brisk running.[4] It also improves flexibility, coordination, and pelvic floor health, while aiding stress relief and boosting self-esteem, though proper form is essential to prevent injury.[4]
Notable Examples in Media
"Anaconda" by Nicki Minaj – Released in 2014, the song’s music video showcases Minaj’s twerking and booty clapping, cementing her reputation as a leading figure in popularizing the move.[5]
"Booty Clap" by DJ Slugo – A 2000s track celebrating the dance move within the ghetto house genre, emphasizing its roots in urban music culture.
"Make That Booty Clap" by Kill Frenzy and DJ Funk – An electronic music collaboration highlighting booty clapping in club settings.
Nicki Minaj – Known as a "famous ass-clapper," Minaj frequently incorporates booty clapping into her live performances and videos, notably during her 2018 "Chun-Li" tour, enhancing her stage presence.[5]
WAVEYA - WAVEYA, a South Korean dance duo of sisters Ari and MiU, are celebrated for their ass-clapping in twerk-focused performances. Their 2014 "Anaconda" cover, 2024 "XXX" video by Kim Petras, and "Money" by Cardi B showcase this move, blending precise choreography with a bold, sexy edge that has built their global YouTube following[6].
Cardi B – A prominent rapper and performer, Cardi B’s twerking and booty clapping skills shone in her 2018 "I Like It" video and live shows, contributing to her bold public persona.
Megan Thee Stallion – Celebrated for her twerking prowess, Megan’s 2020 "Savage" performances and TikTok challenges feature standout booty clapping, earning her a reputation as a modern dance icon.
Lizzo – Beyond her advocacy for body positivity, Lizzo’s 2019 "Juice" performances include energetic booty clapping, blending empowerment with dance flair.[7]
Kehlani – In 2022, Kehlani’s booty clapping in a viral video from her "Blue Water Road" tour gained significant attention, with the artist humorously reacting to its online fame.[8] These examples and individuals illustrate booty clapping’s integration into music, dance, and social media, with artists leveraging the move to enhance their cultural impact.
