Country Swing Question

[Spitfire]

It was in C&W that I got my intro to dancing over 20 years ago. The dance that I was taught as being "Country Swing" is a 4 count pattern similar to that of Hustle, but done to same tempo as that done in single time swing. I've known this dance as the Rodeo Swing, but have not done it in recent years.

What I'm wondering now if this is indeed the definitive C&W swing dance or if Country Swing refers to any swing dancing done to C&W music. I'm wondering since ECS, Single Time and WCS are also taught in C&W settings here.

Patterns - Sweetheart, Pretzel and Window moves; are these particular to C&W? This is where I learned them and I have used these when I've danced swing in a non-C&W setting and have been asked on occasion if I do country swing, but I've seen these moves taught as standard swing moves in ECS and Single Time so I'm unsure about this.

[DanceMentor]

First, let me start by saying that there are at least 30 different types of swing. What you are referring to sounds like a version of Single Rhythm East Coast Swing, which, by the way, is a great thing to teach beginners because it is easier than triple count swing.

I do know that the Hustle is often taught in Country Western settings and it may be that they are dancing the Hustle, but calling it something else. I hope that helps.

[Phil Owl]

I do know that the Hustle is often taught in Country Western settings and it may be that they are dancing the Hustle, but calling it something else. I hope that helps.

Interesting you say this. I've seen videos of Country competitions and a lot of the moves nowadays are far more like Hustle (which I happen to love!), things like Two-Hand Continuous Turns and all the fancy wraps and spins, great fun to watch!