Moshing

Moshing

A mosh pit at a concert.

Moshing is a style of dance characterized by participants pushing or slamming into each other, typically performed to "aggressive" live music. It is most commonly associated with punk rock, hardcore punk, and various styles of heavy metal music.

History

Moshing originated in the early 1980s in the hardcore punk scene in the United States. It was initially referred to as "slam dancing" and was popularized by bands such as Black Flag and Bad Brains. The term "mosh" is believed to have originated from the Washington, D.C. hardcore scene, where it was used to describe the intense, energetic dancing that took place at shows.

Styles of Moshing

A mosh pit in action.

There are several styles of moshing, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Circle Pit: Participants form a circle and run in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, often pushing and shoving each other.
• Wall of Death: The crowd splits into two groups that face each other, then charge at each other when the music reaches a certain point.
• Push Pit: A more chaotic form of moshing where participants push each other randomly.
• Hardcore Dancing: Involves more structured movements such as kicks, punches, and spins, often seen in hardcore punk and metalcore shows.

Safety and Etiquette

A sign prohibiting moshing at a festival.

While moshing can be a fun and energetic way to enjoy live music, it also carries risks of injury. Participants are encouraged to look out for each other, help those who fall, and respect the boundaries of others. Some venues and festivals have banned moshing due to safety concerns, as indicated by signs like "No Moshing".

Cultural Impact

Moshing has become an integral part of the live music experience for many genres. It is often seen as a form of expression and release, allowing fans to physically engage with the music. Despite its aggressive appearance, moshing is generally based on a sense of community and mutual respect among participants.

Related Pages

• Punk rock
• Hardcore punk
• Heavy metal music
• Slam dancing

The band Onyx performing live, known for energetic shows.

Gallery

• 
  Fans moshing at a concert.