Lindy Hop isn’t just a dance—it’s a conversation, a rebellion, and a celebration of freedom. If you’ve mastered the basics and crave that effortless, Harlem-era flow, it’s time to dive into advanced moves that’ll make you swing like the legends of the Savoy Ballroom. Here’s how to elevate your Lindy Hop from technical to transcendent.
1. The Swiveling Charleston: Precision Meets Playfulness
Forget stiff kicks—Harlem’s greats made the Charleston swivel. Advanced dancers add a hip-rolling, grounded swivel to each step, turning it into a dynamic groove. Pro tip: Keep your knees soft and let your torso respond to the swivel for that infectious bounce.
2. The Texas Tommy with a Harlem Twist
The classic Texas Tommy gets wild when you channel Frankie Manning’s flair. Instead of a simple turn, add an exaggerated arm sweep and syncopated footwork (think: delayed triple steps). The key? Make it look loose while maintaining razor-sharp connection with your partner.
3. Flying Aerials (Safely!)
Yes, the air steps—Lindy Hop’s most iconic spectacle. Start with the "Over-the-Back" (a partnered flip where the follower arcs over the leader’s shoulder) only after mastering lifts with a spotter. Harlem legends prioritized momentum over muscle—use the bounce of the swing-out to launch, not brute strength.
4. The Savoy-Style Swing-Out: Elastic & Electrifying
The advanced swing-out isn’t just a move—it’s a statement. Leaders: Think "stretching a rubber band" as you send your partner out, then snap back into closed position with a body roll. Followers: Delay your return slightly for suspense, then accelerate into the next step. Listen to "Jumpin’ at the Woodside" for the right pulse.
5. Rhythmic Breaks & Musical Hits
Harlem dancers played with the music. Advanced Lindy Hoppers hit breaks (like a sudden freeze or a shimmy on a trumpet blast) and layer footwork variations (e.g., toe-heel digs or rapid shuffles) to match the band’s energy. Study recordings of Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers—their musicality was unmatched.
Final Note: Steal Like an Artist
The true secret? Watch vintage clips of Norma Miller, Al Minns, and Dean Collins. Copy their quirks—then make them your own. Lindy Hop thrives on improvisation, so once you’ve drilled these moves, break the rules with style.
Now hit the floor and swing like 1939 never ended.
