This couple, Marine and Guillame, did this amazing swing dance at a competition. It has since gotten over 6 million views on YouTube. The dance is full of energy and even an aerial move or two and it will definitely make your day.
If you didn’t know, Lindy Hop is a dance that originated in Harlem in the 1920s and 1930s, and there are still lessons and events being held all over the world today. The dance itself has six and eight-count steps and has some elements of Charleston and tap mixed in with more formal European dances.
Lindy Hop really got its roots in the Savoy Ballroom in New York during the 1940s. A night out of dancing was cheap and it was the only way to hear jazz music since recordings were not readily available just yet. Lindy Hop got its name from Charles Lindbergh’s “hop” across the Atlantic. The nickname kind of stuck from there.
Lindy hop has seen a major revival over the last 20 years. It started in the 90s when it was danced to more electro-swing type music. However, some of the original dancers were rediscovered and their moves were taught to others. Now, the scene does the Lindy Hop to original jazz songs or covers of them.
Lindy Hop also has roots in African dancing dating back to when slaves would entertain themselves at night when they were not working. Many of these dances became dance crazes for other Americans as well, such as the Charleston.
This particular dance in this video is very exciting. It is fast-paced and has elements of Charleston and even a couple of aerial moves. Aerial moves are taught now, but they are only done in competition or in performances when the floor is cleared of people.
If you are able, find your closest swing community and take a lesson. It could change your life, or at the very least make for a fun evening.
Featured Image: YouTube
