Hustle

Rediscover the Hustle at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Cave Creek

In the late 1960s and 1970s, the disco era took over entertainment in Europe and the U.S., dazzling partygoers with booming sound systems and flashing lights. Freestyle dancing dominated the early disco scene, with moves reminiscent of pop icons like The Jackson 5. Fashion was just as important as the dance moves—think bellbottoms, elevator shoes, and lots of flair! But amidst all the freestyle fun, a new style of “touch dancing” emerged in 1973 at The Grand Ballroom. This dance, initially nameless, began with a simple 6-count step featuring turns, eventually giving birth to the iconic Hustle.

As the Hustle grew in popularity, it absorbed influences from Latin discotheques of the time, such as The Corso and The Ipanema. These clubs bridged live band sets with disco beats, where touch dancing had long included styles like mambo and cha cha. The Hustle evolved into a more intricate and dynamic dance, incorporating multiple turns, hand changes, and flowing arm movements. This version, dubbed the “Rope Hustle” or “Latin Hustle,” blended the elegance of mambo with the excitement of disco. Its rhythmic, side-by-side patterns and playful spins made it an instant hit.

By the mid-1970s, Hustle fever spread across the U.S., with dancers refining the style through competitions and performances. Professional artists added dramatic arm extensions and fluid movements, borrowing elements from ballet, ballroom, and swing. The dance transitioned from a slotted style to a rotational one, introducing acrobatic and flashy moves to captivate audiences. As nightclubs, hotels, and even TV shows embraced the Hustle, innovative dancers pushed its boundaries to keep the excitement alive. The NYC Hustle of the late ‘70s, performed with a distinct 3-count rhythm (&-1-2-3), set the gold standard for Hustle dancers nationwide.

Fast forward to today, the Hustle remains a vibrant, smooth dance set to contemporary pop hits. Its fast tempo and dynamic spins make it exhilarating to watch and even more fun to perform! Ladies spin and glide while their partners skillfully guide them with smooth, rhythmic moves. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Cave Creek, we make learning the Hustle an unforgettable experience. Our friendly instructors are here to help you master the basics or refine your skills, whether you’re preparing for a big event or just dancing for fun. Call us today to ask about our Introductory Offer and step into the groove of the Hustle—you won’t regret it!