Slow Drag
Slow Drag is one of the most classic blues dances out there—it’s actually the oldest known partner dance in the blues tradition, born in jook joints back in the late 1800s.
Resources
Idioms
Blues dance is the term used by contemporary blues dancers to refer to their genre, serving as shorthand for blues idiom dance. Most blues dancers typically categorize Blues Idiom Dances into three categories: Solo, Jookin’, and Ballroom.
Jookin'
Jookin’ blues dances are improvised, rhythmic dances from Southern juke joints, rooted in African American blues culture and known for their grounded, expressive movement.
Texas Shuffle
A "slotted" dance that, despite what the name suggests, has its origins in California.
Ballroomin'
Ballroomin’ blues dances are smooth, elegant partner dances rooted in African American blues tradition, blending blues feeling with ballroom-style movement and flow.
Slow Drag
Slow Drag is one of the oldest blues dances, around since the 1800s. It’s still danced today in both ballroomin’ and jookin’ styles.
Stride
The Stride rolls with early jazzy blues, where dancers walk in close embrace with long, smooth, forward steps.
Strut
The Strut is generally to New Orleans jazz blues, with dancers in close embrace, showing off a rolling upper body and smooth turns.