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Native to the Chicago area, Steppin'
as it is affectionately known originated in Chicago, IL. It was
originally known as the "Offtime Dance", which was a
form of a slowed down (or half time) Jitterbug in the 1940s
and later a heavy Bop influence in the 1950s. During the 1950s
it became known as "the Walk" due to its slow walking
appearance with the leader and partner walking around the dance
floor in time to the music, followers walking backwards and leaders
walking forward. |
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The 1960's brought it all together to form the
dance called "Steppin or Stepping". Dancers would dress
up wearing Wide Brim Hats, Baggy Slacks, Ties and even long dcolor=ress
coats. Ladies wearing high stilletto heels (fmp's), short skirts
to long dresses, basically looking very cool. The dance is a very
relaxed and smooth form of movement, not the breakneck actions
of the Jitterbug.
Not all music is good for stepping,
but it is a versatile dance when it comes to music, including,
R&B, Pop, Big Band, Bop, Jazz, Contemporary dance, Hip-Hop
etc. However, like most music, dancer look for certain rhythms
in these music forms. The main form of the music is R&B Music.
The basic is 8 steps and are counted 1-2-3---4-5-6---7-8, there
are 6 count patterns to the music as well. The dance is African
American in nature but does welcomely cross the racial barriers
as many other nationality's /races are welcomed and encouraged
to partake in this dance. So if you are interested, definitely
give it a try. |
Ballrooms
