Hustle

In the late 1960s and through the 1970s, discotheques, or discos, exploded in popularity across Europe and the U.S., becoming the ultimate destination for music, dancing, and style. These lively venues were known for their state-of-the-art sound systems and dazzling lights. Dancing in early 1970s discos was largely freestyle, reminiscent of the “rock” moves popularized by stars like The Jackson 5. And of course, no disco night was complete without the era’s signature fashion—bellbottoms and platform shoes were all the rage on the dance floor.

In 1973, a new kind of “touch dance” began to emerge at The Grand Ballroom. This simple 6-count step, featuring basic inside and outside turns, caught the attention of male dancers in the club. This fresh and exciting style eventually earned the name “Hustle.” As the dance gained traction, it began to evolve and adapt, spreading to Latin discotheques like The Corso and The Ipanema. In these clubs, the Hustle blended with traditional touch dances like mambo, salsa, and cha cha, incorporating intricate turn patterns and fluid hand changes. This iteration became known as the “Rope Hustle” or “Latin Hustle.”

By the mid-1970s, the Hustle had grown into a nationwide phenomenon, boosted by dance contests and the creativity of professional performers. Dancers introduced elements of ballet and elasticity to its movements, transforming the Hustle from a simple touch dance to a dynamic, rotational style. Competitors also added acrobatic and adagio elements, making it even more impressive and crowd-pleasing. As its popularity soared, nightclubs, hotels, and television programs began hiring dancers to showcase this electrifying style. The 3-count Hustle, made famous by NYC club dancers, became the gold standard, inspiring dancers across the country to put their own spin on this captivating dance.

Today, the Hustle is danced to modern pop music, making it as fresh and exciting as ever. Its smooth, fast-paced rhythm features constant spins for the lady while her partner seamlessly leads, creating a dance full of energy and flair. If you’re in Chandler and ready to learn the Hustle, we at Fred Astaire Dance Studios are here to help! Our talented instructors will guide you through the steps, ensuring you have a blast while mastering this iconic style. Take advantage of our special Introductory Offer for new students—give us a call today, and let’s dance the Hustle together!