Mastering "What's Up": A Comprehensive Guide
Ever found yourself in a social situation where you're expected to know the dance moves to "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes? Fear not! This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring you're ready to bust a move at a moment's notice. Let's dive in.
Understanding the Song and Dance
"What's Up" is a classic 90s hit with a distinctive, catchy chorus. The dance that accompanies it is equally recognizable, featuring simple yet effective moves that anyone can learn. The dance is typically performed in groups, with each person taking turns to lead the chorus.
Preparation: Setting the Stage
Before you start learning the dance, there are a few things you should have in place:

- Music: Ensure you have the song ready to play. You can find it on various music streaming platforms.
- Space: You'll need enough room to move around. A clear, spacious area will do.
- Attitude: Approach the learning process with enthusiasm and patience. You'll get it with practice!
Learning the Moves: Step by Step
Now that you're ready, let's break down the dance into manageable steps.
Verse 1: The Basic Steps
The verse is where you'll learn the foundation of the dance. Here's what you do:
- Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- As the music starts, step your right foot forward, then your left, alternating throughout the verse.
- While stepping, sway your hips slightly to the beat. This adds a touch of rhythm to your moves.
Pre-Chorus: Adding Some Flare
As the song builds up to the chorus, you'll add a bit more pizzazz to your dance:

- When the lyrics "What's up, wake up" play, clap your hands above your head.
- After clapping, bring your hands down to your sides and continue stepping to the beat.
Chorus: The Signature Move
The chorus is where the dance really comes to life. Here's how you do the signature move:
- As the chorus starts, raise your hands above your head, palms facing each other.
- Bring your hands down in front of you, as if you're reaching for something.
- Then, swing your arms out to the sides, as if you're saying "What's up?"
- Repeat this motion throughout the chorus, stepping to the beat.
Practice Makes Perfect
Once you've learned the moves, it's time to practice. Start by dancing along to the song at home. Then, try it out with a group of friends. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you'll become.
Tips for Group Performances
When performing "What's Up" in a group, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Face the same direction | This ensures everyone is dancing in sync and makes it easier for the audience to follow along. |
| Take turns leading the chorus | Each person can take a turn leading the chorus, adding variety to the performance. |
| Have fun! | The most important thing is to enjoy yourself. The audience will feed off your energy. |
And there you have it! You're now equipped with the knowledge to tackle "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes. So, the next time the song comes on, you'll be ready to show off your moves. Happy dancing!