Abstract: The object of this research is a Russian dance ditty (folk song consisting of four-lined couplet). The subject of this research is the emergence and proliferation of dance ditty across the Russian regions, its nature and entwinement with the dance song, as well as active popularization in the late XIX – early XX centuries. Special attention is given to the existing scientific versions of the emergence of this genre. The author underlines the importance of in-depth study of dance ditty as a folk genre the choreographers and folklorists rely on in their work. The question is raised on the need for comprehensive examination of the Russian regional dance ditty, since it is encompasses a vast layer of types, subtypes, performing, musical and dance peculiarities of all Russian regions. The novelty of this work lies in the attempt to determine the factors of emergence and popularization of dance ditties. The analysis of folklore material (song collections, etc.) for the purpose of establishing correlation between dance ditties and dance songs, quadrilles, its particular types and forms suggests achieving the goal set in this article. The goal of this research is to reveal the reasons for the existence and popularity of dance ditties in different Russian regions. The author develops a new version of the emergence of ditty from dance songs during the quadrille performance. The acquired results reveal close interrelation between ditty and dance songs alongside the development of folk choreography and song repertoire, and draws the interest of experts to dance ditties.