A look at some of the most memorable TikTok dance challenges that kept the world on their feet. 

Before TikTok evolved into a diverse platform for entertainment and information, it began as a hub for dance challenges. Join us as we dance through TikTok challenges that kept us moving and grooving. 

Savage 

TikTok in 2020 was unparalleled, and Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage” was one of the defining tracks of that era. When Keara Wilson posted her choreography for “Savage”, it quickly became one of the most iconic dances on the app. For many newcomers to TikTok, it was the first dance they learned. 

Yahyuppiyah – Uncle Waffles 

Amapiano to the world, and so did the “yahyuppiyah” dance, which traveled across the globe. The Piano hit by Uncle Waffles featuring Pcee, Eeque, and Chley went viral on TikTok even before its official release. The dance became an anthem for everyone from big stars to TikTok creators and households alike.  

@ciara Yah Yah Yah! @uncle.waffles ♬ Yahyuppiyah (feat. Pcee, EeQue & Chley) – Uncle Waffles & Tony Duardo & Justin99

Calm Down – Calm Down 

“Another banger” will forever be remembered as the anthem for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. And thanks to TikTok, there’s now a dance routine to go along with it. Soccer fans went wild over Rema’s “Calm Down”, with the dance challenge exploding across TikTok as nurses, teachers, and everyday people joined in. 

@loicreyel At what time are you watching this video 😍✨ Dc: me #calmdownchallenge #dance #afro ♬ Calm Down Official Dance Challenge by Loïc Reyel – Loic reyeltv

Water – Tyla 

Tyla’s choreographer, Litchi, made everyone sweat with his impressive dance routine. Then Tyla took it to the next level when she spontaneously poured water down her back while singing “make me water” during a performance. After that moment, it became norm to see people pouring water down their backs as they shook it to the catchy tune. 

@discoveryplusse Ikväll blir det SHOW!💦 21.00 på Kanal 5, missa inte! #tylawaterchallenge #tyla #tylawater #biancatalkshow ♬ original sound – discovery+ Sverige

Up by Cardi B 

When Cardi B released her catchy hit “Up”, fans took over TikTok. Mya Johnson, along with Chris Cotter, crafted the energetic dance routine that quickly became a sensation. Countless popular creators have since recreated it on their own pages. Now, whenever this song plays, everyone jumps to their feet to show off their moves. 

Tshwala Bami 

All it took was three guys grooving at home to Tshwala Bam for this dance routine to become iconic. At first glance, it seems like a simple move, but in practice, it’s not that easy. TikTokers unofficially agreed that only the creators of this dance can truly pull off the cool move. The rest of the world can try, but it’s nearly impossible to recreate it perfectly. 

@plsbesoffr I def can’t do this😂😂 #tshwalabami #tshwalabami #tshwalabamichallange #amapiano #amapianochallenge #yuppe #dancechallenge #nobodydoesitbetter ♬ Tshwala Bam (feat. S.N.E, EeQue) – TitoM & Yuppe

Photography: Pexels