Hustle

Back in the late 1960s and throughout the disco craze of the 1970s, nightlife was all about high-energy music, colorful flashing lights, and dancing the night away at popular discotheques across Europe and the U.S. Early on, disco dancing was mostly freestyle—think moves inspired by stars like The Jackson 5—and the iconic fashion of bell-bottoms and platform shoes ruled the dance floors. But in 1973, something new started to emerge at a club called The Grand Ballroom: a simple but captivating “touch dance” performed by women that caught the attention of everyone, especially the men. This six-count step, featuring basic turns, would eventually evolve into what we now know as the Hustle.

As more people embraced the Hustle, it began to transform, especially in Latin discotheques like The Corso and Barney Goo Goo’s. In these clubs, traditional Latin dances like mambo, salsa, cha cha, and bolero had long been staples. The Hustle incorporated some of these Latin influences, adding intricate turn patterns and a rope-like quality to its arm movements, which earned it the nickname “Rope Hustle” or “Latin Hustle.” By blending the flair of Latin rhythms with disco beats, the dance gained a unique identity and drew dancers from all over, eager to try their hand at its stylish moves.

As the Hustle gained momentum, dance contests across the U.S. brought even more attention to it. Performers began adding their own flair, borrowing from ballet with long, elegant arm movements and injecting acrobatic tricks for a dramatic edge. By the mid-1970s, clubs, hotels, and even TV programs were hiring dancers to wow audiences with their innovative routines. During this time, the Hustle also shifted from a simple slotted pattern to a more dynamic rotational style. NYC dancers led the charge, popularizing the 3-count Hustle (&-1-2-3) that remains a favorite among Hustle enthusiasts today. Over time, it borrowed elements from ballroom, swing, and Latin dances, creating a smooth, fast-paced style with traveling movements and constant spins.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Gilbert, we absolutely love teaching the Hustle! Whether you’re drawn to its disco origins or its modern-day versatility, we’re here to help you master this exciting dance. The Hustle’s fast, fluid moves are perfect for anyone who loves pop dance music and wants to add some serious fun to their life. Why not give it a shot? Our Introductory Offer is a great way to start, and our friendly instructors can’t wait to help you achieve your dance goals. Call us today, and let’s get you spinning on the dance floor!