Specialty Swing
Energetic partner and solo dances developed during the swing era (1930s-1940s) and revival movements.
10 dance styles in this genre
Dance Styles
Lindy Hop
Also known as: Lindy, Lindy Swing
Lindy Hop was an African-American swing dance developed in 1920s-1930s Harlem, featuring aerials, swing-outs, and partner exchanges. It became the defining dance of the swing era and influenced all subsequent swing traditions.
West Coast Swing
Also known as: WCS, California Swing
West Coast Swing developed in 1950s Los Angeles as an adaptation of East Coast Swing to slower musical tempos and electric guitar. It features a slotted pattern and contemporary partnering styles.
Triple Step Swing
Also known as: Triple Step, Slow Swing
Triple Step Swing is a simpler swing variation with a basic 8-count pattern, making it accessible to beginners while maintaining authentic swing character and musicality.
Shag
Also known as: Carolina Shag, Beach Shag
Shag is a smooth, low-impact swing dance with syncopated footwork developed in the Carolinas, remaining popular in beach resort communities and contemporary social swing settings.
Boogie-Woogie
Also known as: Swing Boogie
Boogie-Woogie is a high-energy swing dance emphasizing solo variation and partner connection, developed during the 1940s-1950s swing era as a showcase for athletic movement.
Jitterbug
Also known as: Jive Swing, American Jitterbug
Jitterbug is a fast, energetic partner swing dance with aerials and rapid footwork, developed during the 1930s-1940s swing era and popularized through dance competitions and entertainment.
Slow Swing
Also known as: Slow Swing Style
Slow Swing is a slower, more intimate swing variation allowing for musical interpretation and partner connection, developed as an alternative to faster swing styles.
Balboa
Also known as: Bal-Swing, Balboa Swing
Balboa is a close-contact swing dance developed in 1920s-1930s Southern California, featuring smooth footwork and upper-body styling performed in close position.
Disco Hustle
Also known as: Hustle, NYC Hustle
Disco Hustle is a partner dance developed in 1970s New York clubs, featuring rapid footwork, spins, and contemporary styling performed to disco and electronic music.
Contemporary Swing
Also known as: Modern Swing, New Swing
Contemporary swing represents modern innovations in swing dancing, incorporating contemporary music, freestyle movement, and artistic expression within swing traditions.