Hustle Dance Lesson Colorado Springs, CO
In the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, discotheques (or discos), with high quality sound systems and flashing lights became a popular form of entertainment in Europe and the U.S. Early ‘70s dancing in discos was mostly freestyle dancing (similar to the “rock” style exhibited by pop stars of the day like The Jackson 5) along with the prerequisite dress code of bellbottom pants and elevator shoes.
In 1973, at a disco called The Grand Ballroom, a new type of “touch dance” without a name was being exhibited by females. This simple 6-count step with a very basic form, including inside and outside single turns, would give birth to what would later be called “Hustle.” The young men of the club took notice, and became interested in this new dance.
As it began to gain popularity and more people began to participate, the Hustle started to evolve. In the Latin discotheques of that day, including The Corso, Barney Goo Goo’s, and The Ipanema, disco music was used as a bridge between live band sets. In these clubs, touch dancing had always been present in the form of mambo, salsa, cha cha and bolero. Although considered very much a touch dance, the Hustle was now performed mostly side-by-side and incorporated a lot of the intricate turn patterns of the mambo. The dance also included multiple turns and hand changes with a rope-y feel to the arm movements; hence, the dance was now referred to as the “Rope Hustle” or “Latin Hustle.”
As dance contests sprung up across the U.S. and the phenomenon spread, many Hustle dancers were also involved in the professional performing arts community and contributed long balletic arms and elasticity to the movement. Around this time, the dance also began to move from a slotted pattern into a rotational one. As dance contests increased, young competitors were seeking an edge and so acrobatic and adagio movements were introduced into the dance for performances and competitions. In 1975, this new field of entertainment inspired nightclubs, hotels and television programs to hire young and innovative professionals to perform. With these new opportunities opening up, the young dancers sought out innovative ways to excite the club audiences.
Throughout the late 1970s, even though Hustle was still taught in many different forms (4-count Hustle, the Latin or Rope Hustle) by dance studios, the most exciting form was done by NYC club dancers and competitors who performed the 3-count count Hustle (&-1-2-3.). The NYC Hustle dancers from the ‘70s paved the way for the rest of the Hustle community across the U.S. As it continued to evolve, Hustle began to borrow from other dance styles including smooth ballroom, from which it took traveling movements and pivots and other partner dance forms such as swing and the Latin rhythm dances.
Hustle is danced to the contemporary pop dance music of the last 20 years. It is a fast, smooth dance, with the lady spinning almost constantly, while her partner draws her close and sends her away. Free rhythmic interpretation is characteristic of this dance. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. And ask about our Introductory Offer for new Students… our talented and friendly dance instructors can help you realize your ballroom dancing goals! Our studio is 1.5 miles from the Pikes Peak Futbol Club.
Hustle Dance Lessons in Colorado Springs, CO
During the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, the disco craze swept across Europe and the United States. Vibrant discotheques with high-quality sound systems and dazzling lights became the epicenter of entertainment. Early 1970s disco dancing primarily featured freestyle movements, often resembling the “rock” style made popular by artists like The Jackson 5. Partygoers flaunted their flowing flared pants and soaring stilettos, creating the atmosphere of the bygone era.
In 1973, at a disco venue called The Grand Ballroom, a revolutionary new “touch dance” began to emerge. This six-count step, characterized by inside and outside single turns, was initially unnamed but soon became known as the Hustle. The youthful energy was palpable as this dynamic dance style quickly gained a following among throngs of young men.
In the thriving underground of Latin discotheques, The Corso, Barney Goo Goo’s, and The Ipanema stumbled upon something magical – the Hustle dance, which rapidly gained popularity and began to transform. These venues, where mambo, salsa, cha-cha, and bolero were popular, introduced a new twist to Hustle dancing. It fused lightning-fast spin moves with smooth hand changes and intricate turn patterns, birthing the infectious “Rope Hustle” and “Latin Hustle” dance craze.
The Evolution of Hustle Dance Instruction
As Hustle dance competitions burst onto the national scene, pros blended elegant ballet moves with playful, bouncy steps and cranked up the flexibility in their routines. Around this time, the Hustle shifted from a slotted dance pattern to a rotational one. Competitive dancers, seeking to stand out, began incorporating acrobatic and dramatic movements. As Hustle fever swept the nation in 1975, DJs and dancers scrambled to cash in on its appeal, showing off their hottest moves in flashy nightclubs, posh hotels, and even TV shows.
During the late 1970s, various forms of Hustle, including the four-count Hustle and Latin Hustle, were widely taught. However, the most captivating version was the three-count Hustle (&-1-2-3), perfected by New York City club dancers and competitors. Modern Hustle dance training took shape as instructors blended skills from ballroom, swing, and Latin dance, fashioning a dynamic style that exploded with movement and rhythm.
Experience Hustle Dance Studio Excellence in Colorado Springs, CO
Today, the Hustle is performed to contemporary pop and dance music, offering a fast-paced, smooth style. Its signature moves involve the lady spinning continuously while the partner seamlessly leads, blending closeness with dynamic energy. The rhythm takes center stage, and you’re the star, free to add your own flair and creativity to every move.
If you’re in or around Colorado Springs, CO, and looking to master this exhilarating dance, visit our Hustle dance studio. Our expert Hustle dance instructors specialize in guiding beginners and experienced dancers through every step. Let your inner dancer loose with our personalized Hustle lessons, tailored to fit your style and goals, no matter your experience level.
Start Your Journey with Hustle Dance Instruction
Don’t wait to experience the excitement of the Hustle! Call us today to learn more about our introductory offers for new students. Get ready to move with our enthusiastic instructors, who’ll introduce you to the dynamic rhythm and steps of this addictive dance. Conveniently located just 1.5 miles from the Pikes Peak Futbol Club, our studio is the perfect place to start your Hustle dance journey.