Swing dancing wouldn’t be what it is today without the electrifying energy of Lindy Hop. Born in the jazz clubs of Harlem in the late 1920s, this dance took the world by storm with its high-flying aerials, infectious rhythms, and improvisational spirit. But behind every iconic move are the legends who brought them to life—dancers who turned steps into stories and routines into revolutions. Let’s dive into the moves that shaped swing history and the pioneers who made them legendary.
The Air Step: Frankie Manning’s Flight
No discussion of Lindy Hop is complete without Frankie Manning, the godfather of swing. In 1935, at the Savoy Ballroom, Frankie defied gravity with the first-ever aerial move—a back-to-back flip with his partner, Frieda Washington. This "air step" (later called the "Lindy Air Step") became the hallmark of Lindy Hop’s daring athleticism. Manning’s innovation didn’t just wow crowds; it redefined what partner dancing could be.
"I didn’t plan it—I just threw her over my back, and the crowd went wild."
—Frankie Manning
The Swivel: Dean Collins’ Smooth Style
While Frankie brought the fire, Dean Collins brought the finesse. A Savoy dancer turned Hollywood choreographer, Collins popularized the swivel—a subtle but hypnotic hip-and-foot movement that gave Lindy Hop its liquid flow. His clean, rhythmic style (dubbed "Hollywood Lindy") influenced generations of dancers, proving that swing could be both explosive and elegant.
The Texas Tommy: George Snowden’s Original
Before Lindy Hop had a name, there was the Texas Tommy—a move credited to George "Shorty" Snowden, one of the Savoy’s earliest stars. The move involved a dramatic "breakaway" where partners released hands, spun independently, and reconnected with flair. This move laid the groundwork for Lindy’s signature improvisation and playfulness.
The Shim Sham: The Swing Anthem
Though not exclusive to Lindy Hop, the Shim Sham line dance became swing culture’s unofficial anthem. Popularized by legends like Leonard Reed and Willie Bryant, this routine was a staple at Savoy marathons. Today, it’s a global ritual—dancers from Seoul to Stockholm kick-ball-change their way through this timeless groove.
Legacy in Motion
From air steps to swivels, these moves aren’t just steps—they’re stories of joy, rebellion, and creativity. The Lindy Hop legends didn’t just dance; they built a language of movement that still speaks to us today. So next time you hit the social floor, remember: you’re not just dancing. You’re keeping history alive, one swingout at a time.
Keep swinging,
The Lindy Community
