One of the old-school dances that became popular in the 20th Century is the jitterbug dance, a jazz dance characterized by acrobatic feats. The dance was derived from the Charleston, Lindy Hop, and other swing dances of the 1920s and 1930s.

It is a fast-paced, energetic dance characterized by quick footwork and turns. People originally danced the jitterbug to swing music, but it can also be danced to other genres of music, such as rock’n’roll and blues.

The jitterbug is believed to have originated in New York City, and it quickly spread to other parts of the United States. The dance became popular in Hollywood films of the 1940s, and it was even featured in the highly successful film “Shall We Dance” starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

The Origins of Jitterbugging

The jitterbug dance was named after the song “Call the Jitter Bug” by Cab Calloway and was further popularized by the film “Jitterbug Party.” In the 1930s, it came to be associated with a type of jazz music that was popular in Harlem nightclubs.

This music’s fast tempo and energetic sound lent itself well to dancing, and soon the jitterbug became a dance craze.

Jitterbugging reached its peak of popularity in the early 1940s. This was partly due to the fact that many young people were away from home during World War II, looking for ways to have fun and forget about their troubles.

Jitterbugging provided an outlet for all that excess energy and pent-up emotion. The dance is still popular today, though it has evolved somewhat from its original form.

How to Jitterbug

If you’re interested in learning how to jitterbug, you should know a few things. First, this is a partner dance, so you’ll need to find someone to dance with. Once you’ve found your partner, stand opposite each other and join hands. When you’re ready to start dancing, follow these simple steps:

1. Start with your feet together and your weight on your left foot.
2. Swing your right foot forward and back while keeping your weight on your left foot.
3. Step forward on your right foot and then backward on your left foot while still swinging your right foot forward and back.
4. Repeat these steps until you feel comfortable with the rhythm of the dance.
5. After you have mastered the basic steps, you can start adding in turns. To turn clockwise, start with your feet together and then take a small step forward with your left foot. Then, turn your body to the right and take a small step forward with your right foot.
6. To turn counterclockwise, start with your feet together and then take a small step forward with your right foot before turning your body to the left and taking a small step forward with your left foot.

You can also find instructional videos online or take a dance class at your local community center or gym.

Concluding Remarks

Whether you’re a big fan of swing dancing or just looking for a new way to have fun, jitterbugging is worth checking out. This lively dance is perfect for anyone who loves music with a fast tempo and wants to let loose on the dance floor. With some practice, you’ll be dancing like a pro in no time.

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The Lindy Hop was first popularized in the Savoy Ballroom of New York City. Here it quickly became the dance of choice for young African Americans. By the 1930s, Lindy Hop had spread to mainstream America and was being danced by people of all races and backgrounds.

The dance became especially popular in the 1940s, thanks to its inclusion in Hollywood films such as Hellzapoppin’ (1941).

The Basics of the Lindy Hop

The Lindy Hop is a partner dance typically danced to Jazz music from the 1920s and 1930s. It is characterized by its quick feet and energetic movements. The basic steps of the Lindy Hop are simple and can be easily learned by anyone with a basic knowledge of Rhythm dancing.

The Lindy Hop can be danced solo or with a partner. When dancing with a partner, each dancer takes turns leading and following. The lead dancer usually has more freedom to improvise and vary the steps. Meanwhile the following dancer usually stays closer to the lead dancer and mirrors their movements.

The History of the Lindy Hop

African American dancers created the Lindy Hop in Harlem, New York, in the 1920s and 1930s. The dance gets its name from Charles Lindbergh. He was the pilot who made the first solo non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927.

This was a major achievement at the time, and Lindbergh quickly became a household name. Since the Lindy Hop was created around the same time as Lindbergh’s flight, many people called it the “Lindy Hop.”

The Lindy Hop peaked in the 1940s when it was featured prominently in Hollywood films and often performed in nightclubs and on stage. One of the most famous Lindy Hoppers of this era was Frankie Manning. He appeared in several films, including Hellzapoppin’ (1941) and Swing Kids (1993). Manning also choreographed several iconic routines, such as the “air step” and the “suicide.”

Savoy-style Lindy Hop

The Savoy-style Lindy Hop was danced at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem in the 1930s and 1940s. It was different from the Hollywood-style Lindy Hop, popularly associated with Dean Collins and his Lindy Hop choreography in Hollywood films. The Savoy-style of Lindy Hop is high energy and circular, whereas the Hollywood-style Lindy Hop is smooth and slotted.

The Savoy Ballroom was a popular destination for dance enthusiasts of all kinds. It was the final stop on an ascending network of clubs and social events in New York and beyond.

Resurgence of Lindy Hop

After a decline in the 1950s, Lindy Hop experienced a resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s. This was largely thanks to a new generation of dancers inspired by the original pioneers’ style. Today, Lindy Hop is enjoying a resurgence in popularity due to its appearance in La La Land movie (2016).

Final Remarks

The Lindy Hop is a fun and energetic partner dance that originated in Harlem, New York, in the 1920s. It is characterized by its quick feet and lively movements. The Lindy Hop can be danced solo or with a partner, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced dancers. Looking for a fun way to exercise or learn a new dance style? Consider giving the Lindy Hop a try.

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East Coast Swing vs. West Coast Swing: Origins

East Coast Swing originated on the East Coast of the United States in the 1940s, while West Coast Swing originated on the West Coast of the United States in the 1950s. Both dances were born out of a need to simplify the steps of Lindy Hop, another popular partner dance of the time.

While Lindy Hop was originally danced to big band music, East Coast Swing and West Coast Swing were designed for dancing to a wider range of music, including rock & roll, blues, and country.

East Coast Swing vs. West Coast Swing: Music

East Coast Swing music is typically characterized as fast-paced and energetic, focusing on big band, blues, or rock and roll styles. Today, East Coast Swing is often danced to upbeat pop music, which creates a more lively atmosphere. This style of Swing dancing is faster-paced than West Coast Swing and is known for its exciting moves and patterns.

When students say they want to learn how to East Coast Swing, they want to learn the jitterbug, rock and roll, or a similar dance. East Coast Swing is typically danced at a speed range of 136 to 144 beats per minute.

West Coast Swing dancing has increased in popularity since you can dance it to various types of music, including slow and fast blues, contemporary music, hip hop, pop songs, top 40’s songs, and country songs. The speeds of the music for this type of swing generally vary between 90 and 120 beats per minute.

West Coast Swing dancers are encouraged to use their musicality to interpret the music they are dancing to. This is done by matching body movements to the sounds of the beats, “hitting the breaks” in the music with appropriate matching moves, and acting out the lyrics of the songs.

East Coast Swing vs. West Coast Swing: Steps

The most noticeable difference between East Coast Swing and West Coast Swing is their respective step patterns. West Coast Swing is more of a slotted dance, while East Coast Swing is a rotational dance. Both dances are usually performed in a small area when performed socially. However, they can cover the whole dance floor in competitions or show dances.

East Coast Swing is a high-energy dance characterized by bouncy rock steps and triple steps danced as a chasse. The dance is characterized by its bouncy and energetic movement. This is done through kicks and flicks of the legs and feet, as well as through swinging the hips. It often involves lifting the knees between steps, which helps showcase the music’s high energy.

The basic steps of West Coast Swing are a walk, walk, triple step, and triple step. The Anchor Step is the last triple step of each pattern. West Coast Swing is a smooth dance emphasizing the connection with your partner, musicality, and footwork.

Final Thoughts

So, which swing dance style is right for you? East Coast swing is your best bet if you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-energy dance. However, if you’re looking for a slower, more sensual dance, then West coast swing is more your style.

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The origins of swing dancing can be traced back to the 1920s when it first became popular in African American communities in Harlem, New York. From there, it spread like wildfire across the United States, becoming one of the most popular dances of the era.

In the 1940s, swing dancing evolved into what we now know as Lindy Hop. Today, swing dancing is enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities worldwide.

The Rhythm Room – Phoenix, AZ

The Rhythm Room is a world-renowned dance studio that offers classes for all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced dancers. They even offer private lessons if you’re looking for something a bit more personalized.

Gotham Swing Dance Society – New York City, NY

The Gotham Swing Dance Society offers drop-in classes for all levels of dancers as well as private lessons and workshops for those who want to master their craft. They also host regular dances and events where you can show off your stuff. If you want to learn swing dance in the most iconic city in America, the Gotham Swing Dance Society is the place for you.

Lindy on Spruce – Philadelphia, PA

Lindy on Spruce is a great place to learn Lindy Hop, a variation of swing dancing that originated in the 1940s. They offer group classes and private lessons and host regular dance parties so you can practice your new moves in a fun and social setting.

Swingin’ Denver – Denver, CO

Swingin’ Denver is a great place for beginners to learn swing dancing. They offer beginner and intermediate and advanced classes for those who want to take their dancing to the next level. They also hold regular social dances so you can practice your new moves with other dancers.

Manhattan Swing – New York, NY

Manhattan Swing is one of the USA’s most well-known studios for learning swing dancing. They offer group classes and private lessons and frequently host special events like dance workshops and showcases.

The Jitterbug Club – Los Angeles, CA

The Jitterbug Club is one of the USA’s most well-known places to learn swing dance. Located in sunny Los Angeles, CA, The Jitterbug Club offers classes for all levels of dancers, from beginners to experts. They also offer private lessons if you want to focus on perfecting your technique. The Jitterbug Club has a lively atmosphere and always hosts events where you can show off your new moves.

Boston Swing Central – Boston, MA

This club offers drop-in classes and more formalized courses where you can hone your skills. They also have a social dance every Friday night where you can use your newly learned moves. Boston Swing Central is a great place to learn swing dance if you want a supportive and welcoming community.

Online

If you prefer learning online, there are several excellent online resources for learning swing dance. Some of the best online resources include Swing Dancing USA, iLindy, and Learn To Swing Dance Online.

Conclusion

Swing dancing is a fun and energetic way to express yourself while getting some exercise. Whether you’re a beginner or have been swinging for years, there’s sure to be a place to learn and enjoy this fun and energetic dance style.

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