West Coast Swing

What's West Coast Swing, and why do you think it's so cool?

West Coast Swing began life as a style of Lindy Hop danced in California. People kept dancing as the popular music of the day changed from Big Band Swing to R'nB and other styles of music. Over the years, influences ranging from Hustle to Hip Hop have seen West Coast Swing evolve into a highly expressive modern swing dance enjoyed by people around the world.

West Coast Swing tends to be danced at slower tempos than Lindy Hop, for a smooth dance characterized by a strutting feel rather than an athletic bounce. Ranging from smooth and sensual to sharp and explosive, West Coast Swing has a lot for you to discover!

We've assembled a bunch of videos to help you understand what West Coast Swing is all about!

Tybaldt and Hazel at MAD Jam 2008

Improvised dancing by WCS pros! A great example of musicality and the variety of movements you can see in West Coast Swing.

Ben and Melina

Two other WCS champions, Ben and Melina, doing a routine at the US Open.

Love the West Coast Swing?

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