American Jive 4step or 4 step Rock 'n' Roll as it is also known is a style adapted from American Jive (Ballroom Jive) which is composed of 2 x Triple Steps and a Back or Rock Step being better suited to more moderate tempos, it proves far to taxing for long periods of sustained dancing, it can be danced across a broard range of tempos. It was the style taught in the early years by many dance studios as Rock n Roll.
The two sets of Triple Steps were replaced by two individual steps, this was how "4step Rock n Roll" was born. When American Jive (4step) is danced correctly, it is danced 4 steps to 3 beats of music, to a count of slow - slow -quick/quick (S-S-Q/Q ) the back basic or rock step being performed in Q Q time. The man commences on his left foot while the lady commences on her right.
Some instructors still teach the dance with 4 even beats ( 4 steps to 4 beats of music ) which in practice proves far too dreary at slower tempos.4 step differs from other forms of Rock 'n' Roll in that it not only has a side to side rhythm, but also has a back/forward rhythm as well, which imparts the dances characteristic style , making it quiet pleasurable to perform. Once you get the hang of this it might very well become your favourite kind of Rock'n'Roll! You'll be rehearsing it whenever you get the chance.
Rock 'n' Roll as a term was derived from an Afro-American slang term for a very adult pastime, no need to go in to too much detail, maybe this is the reason for the expression that " RnR is the most fun you can have with your pants on".
DvD #1. contents:- Basic Step (man's ladys').... Partners together.....Right & Left Turns ....Tummy Tickle....Cuddle & Spinout....Flying arms (concertina)....Side Pass....Underarm Pass....Signalling The Knots....The Knots....Rockabilly Turn....Roller Coaster....
DvD #2. contents:-(this DvD contains no explanation of basic technique it is purely instructional, DvD #1. should be purchased first if you are not familiar with the style) The Rockstep....American Spin....Reverse American Spin....
Sweetheart....Sweetheart to Cuddle....Sweetheart to Sweetheart....Eggbeater....American Spin Carousel....Hey You....
Thread the Needle....Spinacross....Happy Hands
DvD #3. contents (this DvD contains no explanation of basic technique it is purely instructional, DvD #1. should be purchased first if you are not familiar with the style) Thread the Needle from a Cuddle....The Waves....Pick Pocket.... The Kicks....Addition to The Kicks ....The Helicopter....The Drop BackDvD #4 contents:-(this DvD contains no explanation of basic technique it is purely instructional, DvD #1. should be purchased first if you are not familiar with the style) Hookup....Billy Tease....Rockin' Robyn....Elbow Catch ....The Tunnel..... The Twisted Pretzel
All DvDs include printed text as well as video instruction except DvD #4 !