Steppin' History
AKA Chicago-Style Stepping
Is an urban dance that originated in Chicago and continues to evolve nationwide and overseas. It defines its unique style and culture within the urban community. Let me give you some insights into this captivating dance:
- Origins: Steppin’ emerged from partner dances during the big band era in Chicago. It draws inspiration from east coast Swing dances like the Jitter Bug and the Lindy Hop. The Bop, influenced by Chess Records and Motown Records music, laid the groundwork for what would become Steppin’.
- Evolution: In the late 1960s, Chicago’s youth transformed the partner dance from circular rotations to a straight line, featuring a north-south pattern. This evolution led to the creation of “The New Bop,” which eventually became the foundation for modern Steppin’.
- Two-Handed Dance: Steppin’ involves intricate footwork, smooth movements, and a connection between partners. Unlike its predecessor, the Chicago Bop, Steppin’ is done with both hands, and the body motion shifts from front-to-back to side-to-side.
- Name Origins: The term “Stepping” gained popularity in 1974 when a DJ/Prompter named Sam Chatman observed a couple dancing and announced, “It looks like they are ‘Stepping’.” From then on, the name stuck.
- Local and Exclusive: Chicago-Style Stepping remains an exclusive local dance, deeply rooted in the city’s African American community. It gained radio exposure in 1989, but its origins trace back to the late 1940s and early 1950s.
So, if you’re ever in Chicago, don’t miss the chance to experience the rhythm, elegance, and soul of Steppin’!
