Energetic partner dance rooted in 1920s-40s jazz era that experienced a major revival in the 2010s through social media, pop culture, and nostalgia movements.
Main Styles
Lindy Hop (1920s-30s Harlem): Original swing dance, Savoy Ballroom, Frankie Manning and Norma Miller pioneers. 8-count and 6-count basics, “swingout” signature move.
East Coast Swing: Simplified 6-count version, beginner-friendly, taught at weddings.
West Coast Swing: Slotted style (linear not circular), works with modern music (pop, R&B, country), huge in California and Texas.
Balboa: Close-embrace, fast tempos, small footwork, Southern California origin.
2010s Revival
Pop culture moments:
- 2011: The Artist film wins Best Picture, silent-era jazz nostalgia
- 2013-2016: Postmodern Jukebox YouTube covers (swing arrangements of pop songs)
- 2014: Electro Swing genre peaks (Caravan Palace, Parov Stelar)
- 2017-2019: Gatsby-themed parties, speakeasy bars, vintage fashion
Social dance resurgence:
- University swing dance clubs explode
- “Lindy Hop Flashmob” videos viral on YouTube
- International competitions livestreamed (Camp Hollywood, Herräng)
Why It Worked
- Partner connection without grinding (wholesome alternative)
- Vintage aesthetic (suspenders, swing dresses, fedoras)
- Welcoming community (beginner-friendly, age-diverse)
- Modern music adaptability (Bruno Mars, Meghan Trainor work for WCS)
Related
- #LindyHop, #ElectroSwing, #VintageStyle, #PostmodernJukebox
Sources
manning.com/about/lindy-hop-history/
- https://www.worldsdc.com/ (West Coast Swing)