Definition & Meaning of "west coast swing"

What is "west coast swing"?

West coast swing is a smooth and versatile partner dance that originated in California in the 1940s. It is characterized by its elastic, "swinging" movements, with dancers often using a lot of sliding and stretching in their steps. The dance focuses on rhythm and connection between partners. West coast swing is typically performed to a variety of music genres, including blues, jazz, and contemporary, and is known for its ability to adapt to different tempos and styles. Its smooth, flowing movements and emphasis on improvisation make it a popular choice in both social and competitive dance settings.