Swing dance is an umbrella term for dances that developed during the swing era of the 1930s, the most important being Lindy Hop.

​

Lindy Hop

Lindy Hop is a Black American partner dance that evolved in the New York district of Harlem from the late 1920s alongside the development of jazz music. Its heyday was the Swing era of the 1930s and at its centre was the magnificent Savoy Ballroom in Harlem, home to the famous Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers.
 

At Swing City we acknowledge our debt to the original Savoy Lindy Hoppers and those who came after them. We continue to learn about the roots and rich heritage of this incredible dance, and share resources regularly in our newsletter.

 
Solo Jazz / Authentic Jazz / Jazz Roots

​

These names all refer to the solo version of dancing to the same swing-era music as Lindy Hop. Solo Jazz encompasses steps from the 1920s to the 1940s including tap and Charleston and is characterised by improvisation and personal expression. 

​

Balboa and Collegiate Shag are other swing-era dances that can often be seen on the Swing City dancefloor and tend to be danced at faster tempos.