West Coast Swing is a modern form of swing dancing.  It is the natural evolution of what has happened to the original Jitterbug and Lindy Hop of the 30's and 40's as music and culture changed over the decades.  West Coast Swing originated in California, and is, in fact the official state dance.  It is smoother than the original styles of swing, and is danced to rhythm and blues rather than big band swing music.  If you think of the old Jitterbug crossed with the smooth partner disco look of "Saturday Night Fever," you'll be pretty close.  West Coast Swing is danced to blues music, or other musical styles derived from the blues, such as R&B, funk, pop, rock, country rock, even disco!  It ranges from old R&B standards to contemporary hits.

Many people think that "swing" means aerials - throwing your partner around in showy, athletic moves.  Swing is actually characterized by some basic six and eight count rhythms in the dance, and there are many varieties of swing.  West Coast Swing is one.  There is also Push or Whip (danced in Texas), Carolina Shag (danced in the south and is the official state dance of South Carolina), Imperial Swing (danced in the St. Louis area), East Coast Swing (also commonly called Jitterbug), and Lindy.  There are even many more local varieties.

West Coast Swing is characterized by a combination of fancy spinning patterns, and rhythmic, creative footwork.  The lady is encouraged to be creative, and is the showpiece of the dance.  West Coast Swing is a "living" dance.  Dancers are always creating new steps, and the dance is constantly metamorphosing.  West Coast Swing can be challenging, but for those who get bitten by the bug, it is endlessly fascinating.