The Lindy hop is an American dance that evolved in Harlem, New York City, in the 1920s and 1930s and originally evolved with the jazz music. It was very popular during the Swing era of the late 1930s and early 1940s. Lindy was a fusion of many dances that preceded it or were popular during its development but is mainly based on jazz, tap, breakaway, and Charleston. It is frequently described as a jazz dance and is a member of the swing dance family.
In its development, the Lindy hop combined elements of both partnered and solo dancing by using the movements and improvisation of black dances along with the formal eight-count structure of European partner dances.
There was renewed interest in the dance in the 1980s from American, Swedish, and British dancers and the Lindy hop is now represented by dancers and loosely affiliated grass-roots organizations in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
When it comes to dancing, we feel completely confident when we say that they really don’t dance like they used to. And to anyone who argues, we’ll happily show them the following scene from the 1956 musical film, “Don’t Knock the Rock.” Set to the song “Rip It Up,” by Bill Haley & His Comets, this two minute clip perfectly illustrates how fun it was to go dancing in the ’50s.
So check it out, and if you’re looking for more great dancing clips, we implore you to check out this Lindy Hop Dance.
When it comes to the moves in the clip of the 1956 musical film, would you like to be able to dance like that? Use the comments section below and share your thoughts. We’d love to hear from you!
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