About

What is Blues Dancing?

Good question.

Blues or “blues-idiom” dancing is a collection of dances and movements that grew out of the African-American / Black community and were danced to blues music. As blues music can trace it’s origins to the American South, these dances follow the same lineage. Various styles grew depending on the area one grew up in and matched the music that predominately played in a region.

Why we love blues:

  • It’s a grounded dance. The focus is on connection between oneself and their partner, resulting in a relaxing dance experience.

  • It’s matriarchal in nature. This means that, unlike other partner dances, the lead does not tell the follow what to do. Rather, the lead may suggest an action that the follow can interpret however they wish. This offers both the lead and follow time for creativity and self-expression.

  • It’s social. We are a community of dancers. We want to get to know you. We can chat during a dance or over a drink. We show up intent on dancing with one another, regardless of whether we brought a date.

  • It’s ageless. Blues is a dance for all ages. Dancers come in their 20s and stay into their twilight years. We are here for the experience of dance with anyone and everyone.

  • It rejects gender roles. Leads, follows, we want you to dance however you prefer. Though, we do encourage all dancers to practice both leading and following as it will give them a more comprehensive understanding of the dance. And each dance should begin with a question, “Would you prefer to lead, follow, or switch?”. No assumptions here.

  • The overall vibe is sensual, sexy, and playful. You can move your body however feels good for you, each dance is different, each partner has their own style. Though if a particular move feels uncomfortable for you, please express that to your partner. We all have our boundaries.

  • The music. Of course, we love the music.

What does it look like?

Blues dance may have different variations, but the look and feel of the dance has a few distinct characteristics:

  • Dancers were grounded in their movements and displayed an athletic posture, which was very relaxed and effortless.

  • They exhibited a pulse based on the music through their bodies and steps. Could  maintain multiple rhythms within their body (poly-rhythms).

  • Dancers would constantly be behind the beat or “lag” to varying degrees. This created a tension or push/pull between partners and the music.

  • They would keep asymmetric shapes and lines, with energy being centered in different parts of the body.

  • High level of improvisation between dancers and the music

Here are some famous instructors dancing very well: Lisa & Fabian

Here’s a fun contest to see some different styles: Atlantic Blues

Here’s a kind of shaky video of a dance in Denver, CO for vibes: The Mercury Cafe

Nicolette Halsema

Nicolette Halsema, the organizer of Bellingham Blues. With a deep love for blues dance, Nicolette embarked on a mission to create an inclusive dance scene in Bellingham, Washington.

Driven by her belief that dance is not just about movement but also about connection, Nicolette founded Bellingham Blues with the aim of providing a welcoming space where dancers of all backgrounds and experience levels can come together, share their love for blues music, and create lasting connections.

Seeking Fellow Leaders to Help Build Blues!

If you are interested in getting involved I would love to connect. Whether you would like to DJ, teach a lesson, you know a great band, or you want to work the door I’m excited to hear from you.

I greatly appreciate any support and collaboration. Building a strong blues dance community requires the collective efforts of dedicated individuals like you. Together, we can create memorable experiences, nurture new talents, and foster a vibrant and inclusive space where the joy of blues dance can thrive. Your contributions, no matter how big or small, are invaluable, and I welcome any help you can offer as we embark on this exciting journey together.