Disco, but with a partner
The hustle: spins, sparkle and a lot of fun
If you’ve ever wanted to do something better than shuffle when a disco track comes on at a wedding, the hustle is your answer. It’s smooth, it spins, and it fits the music you already know all the words to.
- Rated 4.9 on Google
- Founded by World and British champions
- Adults only
- No partner needed
Born in New York disco clubs
The hustle came out of 1970s New York disco clubs, when dancers wanted a way to partner up to the music instead of dancing alone. It borrows swing’s turns and partner connection and adds a smooth, gliding quality that suits a four-on-the-floor beat.
It isn’t strictly a swing dance, but it’s a close relative. People who enjoy West Coast Swing or jive often take to it quickly, because the leading and following feel familiar. It’s danced to disco, funk and modern dance music, so it’s far from a museum piece.
How it’s built
And-1-2-3
The basic starts with a quick step on the “and” before the first beat, then three steps. It gives the hustle a continuous, rolling feel.
Spins
The follow turns a great deal. Learning to spot your turns and keep your balance is half the fun, and the reason smooth-soled shoes matter.
A slot
Like West Coast Swing, much of the hustle travels along a line, with partners passing each other and swapping places.
Learning the hustle with Eduardo
At Beach Ballroom, hustle is taught by Eduardo, our club-style specialist, who also leads salsa, bachata and mambo. His teaching is warm and high-energy and aimed squarely at social dancers, which suits a dance born on a club floor.
Swing and hustle group classes are added to the schedule when there’s interest, booked with a 5, 10 or 20 class pass. Private lessons can start any week, from $140 + tax. Ask when the next hustle group starts when you book.
Hustle, quickly
Is the hustle hard to learn?
The basic rhythm takes a little getting used to because it starts on the “and”. Once that clicks, the turns come fairly quickly.
Will it help at weddings?
Very much. Disco and funk get played at nearly every party, and a simple hustle lets you partner up instead of just bouncing on the spot.
What music is hustle danced to?
Disco, funk and modern dance music. The dance came out of 1970s New York disco clubs, and it still fits anything with a steady four-on-the-floor beat.
Next disco song, you’re ready
Ask about the next hustle group, or start one-on-one any week. A $99 consultation with a senior coach can help you choose between hustle and the swing styles.