It’s a great idea to get people on the floor to dance, whether it is to country or pop music. Most people request the most popular line dances at wedding receptions or other large gatherings of family, coworkers, and friends. You can begin by learning those that are requested most often. You can learn new line dances quickly by joining a group on the dancefloor.
Learning Line Dances
These step-by-step instructions will help you practice some popular line dances.
The Electric Slide
Electric Slide is a popular line dance. Even beginners can keep up with the easy steps and slow music. This dance has been a favourite at high school and junior high dances for many years. It is also popular at weddings and other large group events. For complete instructions on how to do the Electric Slide, click the image below. Check out these tips if you need assistance downloading the printables.
The Cha Cha Slide
Cha Cha Slide is a funky dance with a beat that’s easy to learn. The lyrics of the song will guide you on what to do next. You can get the complete instructions by clicking on the image below.
The Boot Scootin’ Boogie
Boot Scootin’ Boogie, for country line dancing, is one of its most common and easiest dances. This is a good place to begin for new country line dancers. For full instructions, click on the image.
Other Common Line Dances
These line dances are among the most popular across all dance genres.
- Cotton-Eyed Jo
- Chicken Dance
- Hokey Pokey
- Macarena
- The Hustle
- Tush Push
- The Stroll
- The Hora
- Hoedown Throwdown
- Cupid Shuffle
- Catwalk Shuffle
Some of these dances do not take place in a straight line but rather in a circular formation. The line dance is considered as long as all dancers are in one group, and the steps continue throughout the song.
Learner Tips
Dancers who are new to the art of dancing should consider these tips:
- Do not be afraid to try something new.
- You will find that it is much easier to learn new combinations once you have mastered the basics, like the grapevine.
- Start small. If this is your first performance, don’t start with the fastest-paced and most complex song.
- Find out if the country line dance night will include an instruction period. It is easier to learn the dance steps if you review them at a slower speed.
- You can practice your dance steps at home by watching instructional videos such as Party Line Dancing. Never worry about blocking others. Review the steps as many times as you need to.
Line Dance Variations
Line dancing is popular because it’s easy to learn. The repetitive nature of the dances allows for multiple practice sessions. The dances may be simple but many accents can be added and regional variations. After you’ve mastered the basic steps, observe other dancers and see what extra moves they include in their routines, such as arm movements, hand clappings, or extra hip motions. You shouldn’t be surprised when you walk into a new venue to find that everyone is doing quarter turns rather than half turns. Line dancing is about enjoying the company of others and being part of a community. You’ll soon have a new set of moves if you just go with the flow.