History and Characteristics of East Coast Swing
The history of Swing dates back to the 1920’s when the black community, while dancing to contemporary Jazz music, discovered the Charleston. This evolved into several other styles of dance including the Lindy Hop and the Jitterbug. In the 1930’s, during World War II, Swing music came into being with the music of Benny Goodman leading the way. Today, Swing is danced to songs like “Mony Mony,” “Twist and Shout,” and “Old Time Rock and Roll” just to name a few. Swing styles include: Savoy Swing, Lindy, West Coast Swing, Carolina Shag, East Coast Swing, Jitterbug and Jive.
Swing music is defined by the use of “Back Beat” or the accenting of beats 2 & 4. East Coast Swing music should feel energetic, upbeat and fun.
