Jitterbug was popularized by African Americans in the early part of the 20th century. It is related to Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, and Jive. Danced in 4/4 time, Jitterbug is a dance that adapted well to faster Swing music and early rock and roll with it’s simple steps. There is an emphasis on pelvic action in the dance, but the rest of the body moves smoothly.
Jitterbug was popularized by African Americans in the early part of the 20th century. It is related to Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, and Jive.
Danced in 4/4 time, Jitterbug is a dance that adapted well to faster Swing music and early rock and roll with it’s simple steps. There is an emphasis on pelvic action in the dance, but the rest of the body moves smoothly.
Cab Calloway helped popularize the dance with his song Call of the Jitterbug that referred to a Jitterbug as a person who danced and consumed alcohol. American troops brought Jitterbug to England during World War II where it was initially considered a rude American Dance, but later became prevalent in the country. In 1957, Jitterbug was shown on American Bandstand, a Philadelphia based television show that featured popular music and dancing.
