Last Updated on May 6, 2025 by Matt Staff
Step into the rhythm of the 1980s, when breakdancing ruled the streets and boomboxes blasted beats on every corner, with these 1980s breakdancing photos. What started in the Bronx quickly became a worldwide movement, blending raw energy, style, and athleticism. Cardboard became dance floors, and sidewalks turned into stages as young dancers spun, popped, and locked their way into history.
These images offer a vivid look into the soul of a movement that helped shape street culture around the globe. Here are 20 vintage photos of 1980s breakdancing.
1. The matching outfits show they mean business
You can tell by that kid’s face in front that he couldn’t hold that position much longer.
2. Auditioning to back up dance for Madonna, 1983
By the look on her face, it doesn’t look like she gave them the part.
3. Breakdancing crew from London, mid ’80s
That’s one serious belly bump.
4. Breakdancers in New York City, 1983
Cardboard boxes can not give that much cushion.
5. Breaking it down with a choreographed dance
It must get steamy at a breakdancing competition.
6. This crew is about to tear it up
These are breakdancers from New York, 1984.
7. I wonder what this movie is called
Those two have a lot of trust for that guy in the middle.
8. Breaking it down in the street
That takes some serious wrist strength.
9. 10-year-old Leonardo DiCaprio winning second place at a breakdancing competition
The competition was called the Oer Erckenschwick.
10. I’m loving the little boom box
Kids today could never.
11. All eyes are on him
He’s got an entire crowd watching him breakdance.
12. Breakdancing with a fadora is pure confidence
Bring back wearing the fedora like this.
13. Breaking it down at Laguna Beach, 1984
His confidence is overwhelming.
14. He’s flying into the center of the circle
Being in the center of a dance circle is an energy that can’t be matched.
15. He’s got a neck made of diamond
This move would put me in a wheelchair.
16. ’80s breakdancing culture is unmatched
The matching colors, the swagger, they’re ready to breakdance.
17. He has a lot of trust in himself
If I tried this, that trophy case would be in shambles.
18. These bad boys rocked the ’80s
Don’t mess with the Suburban Street Rockers, 1985.
19. We call that move the back breaker
If I tried that, my spine would never be the same.
20. Start ’em young
This photo was taken in 1983, and that kid in the orange ended up dancing professionally just ten years later.
Looking for some more vintage 1980s content?
Check out these 35 Vintage Photos of the 1980s, or if you want to get your fill of ’80s technology, take a look at these 20 Photos That Capture Everyday Computer Life in the 1980s. If you’re looking to see more about ’80s fashion, look at these 24 Fashion Icons From The 1980s That Changed The Way We Dress.
