Origin of the Jive
An energetic evolution of the jitterbug, the jive was first danced in the early 1930s in African American dance halls. It reached its height of popularity after being introduced to the wider public by jazz singer and big band leader Cab Calloway of Harlem's legendary Cotton Club.
The jive combines elements of East Coast Swing with the Jitterbug and some Latin flare. Today, the jive is considered one of the five international competitive Latin dances.
How to Jive
An energetic, bouncy dance, the jive is fun to learn. It includes short side steps, a gliding "chasse" step and a backwards "rock step", all done with controlled movements that keep the knees centered under the body.
Even though the jive is the fastest Latin dance and includes kicks, flicks and twirls, it's a compact dance that works well on a crowded dance floor.
Learn to Jive
The jive is a fun swing-style dance that can be enjoyed with many different kinds of popular music.
Whether you want to learn how to dance the jive socially or competitively, Arthur Murray offers jive lessons for dancers of all levels.
Ready to dance? Sign-up for a private dance lesson today!
