What Is Swing Dancing?

Welcome to the wonderful world of swing dancing! Whether you're new to the dance floor or simply curious about this vibrant dance form, we're here to introduce you to the magic of swing dancing.

The Origins of Swing Dancing

Swing dancing originated in the 1920s and 1930s in the United States, evolving alongside the jazz music of that era. Born in the dance halls of Harlem, New York, swing dancing is deeply rooted in the Black community history.

One of the most iconic venues in swing dancing history is the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem. Opened in 1926, the Savoy was known as the "Home of Happy Feet" and was a melting pot of dance and music, welcoming dancers of all races. It was here that the Lindy Hop, one of the most famous swing dances, was perfected and popularized.

Whitey's Lindy Hoppers, a professional dance troupe led by Herbert "Whitey" White, played a significant role in popularizing swing dancing. The troupe included some of the best dancers of the era, performing breathtaking aerials and intricate footwork that captivated audiences worldwide. One of the most influential members was Frankie Manning, often referred to as the "Ambassador of Lindy Hop." Manning's innovative choreography and charismatic performances left a lasting impact on the swing dance community.

The Different Styles of Swing Dancing

  • Lindy Hop: Probably the most well-known genre of swing dance, Lindy Hop is a fast-paced and acrobatic dance that includes impressive aerials and intricate footwork. It is danced to the upbeat rhythms of swing jazz music.
  • Solo Jazz: Solo Jazz, also known as Vernacular Jazz, is a dance style that allows for individual expression and creativity. It includes a variety of steps and movements that can be performed without a partner, often incorporating elements of improvisation.
  • Shag: Known for its fast footwork and high-energy kicks, Shag is a lively dance that is typically performed to uptempo swing music. It is characterized by its close partner connection and rhythmic variations.
  • Balboa: A smooth and elegant style of swing dance, Balboa is danced in close embrace. It is known for its subtle footwork and is often danced to faster tempos.
  • Bebop: Bebop is a style of swing dance that evolved in post-war Paris and is characterized by its fast tempo and complex rhythms. Bebop dancing embodies the lively and sophisticated spirit of Parisian jazz culture.
  • Blues: While not typically classified as a swing dance because of its different musical rhythm, Blues dance is often enjoyed by the same communities and at the same events due to its complementary style and shared history. Blues dancing is a soulful and expressive dance style that is often slower and more intimate than other swing dances. It emphasizes connection and musicality, allowing dancers to interpret the music with fluid and grounded movements.

Jazz Evolution

After the swing era, Lindy Hop and other jazz dances continued to be danced in Harlem, the Bronx, and beyond, sustained by Black communities who carried the tradition forward across generations. Swing dancing have set the tone for many social and street dances that followed, including popping, locking, hip hop, house, and b-boy/b-girling. The improvisational spirit, rhythmic complexity, and expressive movements of swing dancing have profoundly influenced these modern dance styles. Additionally, the performance and battle aspects of swing dancing have carried over into these contemporary forms, further showcasing the lasting legacy and impact of jazz dance on dance culture today.

The Expansion to a Global Scene

In the 1980s, swing dancing gained renewed global attention, as curious dancers from all over the world sought to learn from the original masters of the era, such as Frankie Manning and Norma Miller. These original dancers, who had performed at iconic venues like the Savoy Ballroom and with groups such as Whitey's Lindy Hoppers, became invaluable teachers and mentors. They shared their knowledge, techniques, and stories, ensuring that the authentic spirit and style of swing dancing were passed down to a new audience. Workshops, festivals, and social dances began to flourish, creating opportunities for dancers from different cultures and backgrounds to connect and learn from each other.

Today, swing dancing is celebrated worldwide, with a vibrant community that honors its rich heritage while continuing to innovate and evolve. Festivals and events dedicated to swing dancing are held across the globe.

Why Swing Dancing?

Swing dancing is more than just a dance; it's a community and a way of life. Here are a few reasons why you might fall in love with swing dancing:

  • Social Connection: Swing dancing is a social dance, and it's a fantastic way to meet new people and make lasting friendships. The swing dance community is welcoming and inclusive, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
  • Physical Activity: Swing dancing is a great workout ! Whatever your age, it improves your cardovascular health, coordination and flexibility while allowing you to have fun and express yourself creatively.
  • Cultural Appreciation: By learning swing dance, you also join in the work of honoring and respecting its Black cultural origins, while enjoying the sense of joy, play, and community that the dance brings.
  • Joy and Fun: Above all, swing dancing is about having fun. The infectious energy of swing music and the playful nature of the dance will leave you smiling and wanting more.

Getting Started

If you are ready to dive into the world of swing dancing, here are a few tips to get you started:

  • Find a Class: Look for local swing dance classes or workshops in your area. Many swing dance communities offer beginner-friendly lessons to help you get started.
  • Attend Social Dances: Social dances are a great way to practice your new skills and meet other dancers. Don't be afraid to ask someone to dance – the swing dance community is friendly and welcoming.
  • Listen to Swing Music: Immerse yourself in the music that inspired swing dancing. Artists like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Benny Goodman are great places to start.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any skill, swing dancing takes practice. Keep dancing, and don't be discouraged by mistakes – they're all part of the learning process.

Learn More

To dig deeper into the history and concepts behind swing dancing, here are some resources to explore:

Books:

  • Frankie Manning: Ambassador of Lindy Hop by Frankie Manning and Cynthia Millman – An inspiring autobiography detailing his contributions to Lindy Hop.
  • Swingin’ At The Savoy by Norma Miller – A vivid memoir capturing the vibrant life at the legendary Savoy Ballroom.
  • Swing Dancing (The American Dance Floor) by Tamara Stevens and Erin Stevens – A comprehensive guide to the history and evolution of swing dancing in America.
  • Jookin': The Rise of Social Dance Formations in African-American Culture by Katrina Hazzard-Gordon – An insightful exploration of African-American social dance development, including swing.
  • Steppin' on the Blues: The Visible Rhythms of African American Dance (Folklore and Society) by Jacqui Malone – A detailed examination of the cultural significance and rhythmic complexity of African-American dance forms.

Documentaries:

  • Alive and Kicking (2016) by Susan Glatzer – A documentary exploring the culture and revival of swing dancing.
  • The Savoy King: Chick Webb and the Music That Changed America (2012) by Jeff Kaufman – A documentary about the legendary Savoy ballroom and its impact on swing music and dance.
  • Jazz (2001) by Ken Burns – A documentary miniseries providing a history of jazz, emphasizing innovative composers and musicians who impacted American history

Old Clips:

We hope this introduction has sparked your interest in swing dancing.

Welcome to the SWINGIN’EASY community – we can't wait to see you on the dance floor!