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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 color=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.
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