Thoughts on Playlists

Thoughts on Playlists – A Message to the Community Here’s what’s in the works: Dance Eclectic / Waltz Eclectic – Our signature playlist isn’t going anywhere. You’ll see it featured at least once a month, and it will remain central to our special events and dance balls. Blues Eclectic – Blues nights will continue to be part of our regular rhythm, with occasional shifts to reflect that evening’s lesson or mood. Tango-Friendly Sets – These will appear periodically as featured playlists. They might evolve into what I’m calling World Café sets, with global flavors and room for Tango-inspired movement. You’ll also continue to hear Tango-friendly tracks woven into our regular third Sunday events, especially during the second half of the dance. If you’re curious to learn more—or want to revisit some of our past playlists and where we might be headed—take a look at the website:

Timing in Partner Dance: A Duet of Intuition and Intention

Lead and follow timing are not opposites—they’re complements. Two forms of listening, two ways of showing up in the music, in the moment, and for each other. Whether you're offering a cue or receiving one, initiating a phrase or finishing it with flourish, timing is what holds the dance together. It's not just about moving with the music—it's about moving with each other.

At Dance Eclectic, we celebrate every voice in the dance. Here’s how timing lives and breathes across the styles we love—through both the leader’s clarity and the follower’s creativity.

Ballroom Timing

Lead: Ballroom moves with structure and elegance. The lead is clean, clear, and confident, guiding on the beat with intentionality. It’s choreographic and musical, like dancing inside a well-composed score. Your timing is the framework that lets the partnership shine.
Follow: The follow becomes fluent in that structure. Timing is precise, yet not stiff—there’s grace in receiving clear cues and transforming them into flowing movement. You listen for the lead’s initiation and then respond with polish, completing each phrase like a duet in perfect harmony.

Tango Timing

Lead: In tango, timing breathes. It stretches and pauses, not always tied to a steady beat but to the feeling beneath it. The lead plays with silence as much as sound. It’s about co-creating tension, release, and poetic moments in between. Each movement is an emotional choice.
Follow: Tango asks the follow for deep listening—beyond the surface. You tune into the slightest shift in weight, the breath before movement, the energy between stillness and step. It’s not about counts, but intention. You trust the unknown, move boldly in your responsiveness, and dance the silence as much as the sound.

Swing Timing

Lead: Swing is rhythm with a grin. It’s grounded and bouncy, full of syncopation and play. The lead timing is steady enough to follow, but loose enough to jam. You’re not just on the beat—you’re swinging around it, riffing with your partner like jazz musicians trading licks.
Follow: Swing follows ride that rhythm like a wave—catching the beat, playing with it. You’re not waiting—you’re jamming, too. Matching energy, throwing in your own flair. It’s a conversation in rhythm, and the follow keeps the music alive with their bounce, syncopation, and joyful voice.

Blues Timing

Lead: Blues invites deep listening. It’s slow, sensual, and earthy. Timing can be behind the beat, melting into the groove. The lead here is a suggestion, a feeling, a breath. You’re not just leading steps—you’re leading presence, attuned to micro-moments and subtle shifts. There’s so much soul in the stillness.
Follow: Blues timing as a follow is sensual and slow-burning. You melt into the music, into the connection. You’re not being “moved”—you’re moving with. Timing can lag, stretch, or pause altogether. You feel micro-cues, you respond with subtlety and soul. It’s an art of presence.

Latin Timing

Lead: Latin dances like Salsa and Bachata live in rhythm. The timing is crisp, percussive, and often fast-paced. Leads must stay dialed in to complex rhythms, using sharp accents and clear initiation to move with precision. But within that structure is fire—body isolations, flourishes, flirtation. The lead is rhythmic leadership, with flair.
Follow: Latin follows are rhythmic fire. Timing is quick, intentional, and full of flavor. You’re attuned to sharp accents and tight transitions, but also to body isolations and expressive interpretation. You don’t just receive the rhythm—you embody it, responding with crispness, connection, and passion.

Fusion Timing

Lead: Fusion is the great playground. It borrows from everything—swing’s play, blues’ nuance, tango’s drama, Latin’s spice, ballroom’s clarity—and lets you remix it live. Timing is an open canvas. You can be on the beat, off the beat, following your partner’s breath or the music’s mood. It’s not about rules—it’s about response.
Follow: Fusion asks the follow to be not just receptive, but creative. You’re not just waiting to be led—you’re interpreting, co-navigating. Timing becomes a negotiation, sometimes even a shared lead. You might match a rhythm, drift away, or introduce your own voice. It’s intuitive, improvisational, and free.

At Its Heart…

Lead timing is an invitation.
Follow timing is an answer.
But both are alive, evolving, listening.

Whether the beat is precise, elastic, bouncy, soulful, spicy, or unexpected—timing is the bridge between two dancers. It’s how we stay present with each other. How we explore the music. How we say, without words: I’m here. Let’s move through this moment together.

And Dance Eclectic is where all these rhythms meet—where everyone brings their full self to the floor, and the timing of connection becomes the most beautiful music of all.

The Evolution of Partner Dancing: Music, Connection, and Changing Relationship Dynamics

1. Origins: Courtly and Ritual Dancing (1400s–1700s)

● Music: Early partner dances grew in royal courts across Europe

— dances like the minuet and pavane set to elegant, formal music.

● Quality of Connection: Partners rarely touched fully —

fingertips or open-hand holds were common. The connection was formal, respectful, and shaped by strict social codes.

● Relationship Dynamics: Dancing emphasized hierarchy, ceremony, and status, reflecting a structured view of social and romantic relationships.

2. The Birth of the Waltz (late 1700s–1800s)

● Music: Waltz music, with its flowing 3/4 rhythm, brought a romantic energy that captivated Europe.

● Quality of Connection: For the first time, dancers embraced each other in a closed hold, moving fluidly across the floor. The connection became more intimate, continuous, and emotionally expressive.

● Relationship Dynamics: The waltz challenged earlier social norms, inviting a new closeness between partners that blurred traditional boundaries between public decorum and private emotion.

3. Ragtime, Jazz, and Swing (early 1900s–1940s)

● Music: Syncopated, lively, and rhythmic, ragtime and swing energized dance halls across America.

● Quality of Connection: Partner connection became dynamic and elastic. Swing dances like the Lindy Hop introduced stretch, compression, and playful improvisation between dancers.

● Relationship Dynamics: While traditional lead-follow roles remained, followers gained greater freedom to express and improvise within the dance, creating a more interactive and

responsive partnership.

4. Ballroom & Latin Dance Standardization (1930s–1960s)

● Music: Ballroom orchestras and Latin rhythms like rumba and cha-cha dominated social dances.

● Quality of Connection: Ballroom training formalized connection

into a structured frame with well-defined roles. Smoothness,

precision, and presentation were prioritized over spontaneous

play.

● Relationship Dynamics: Dance once again emphasized

traditional leadership and followership, mirroring the more

conservative social values of the post-war era.

5. Rock 'n' Roll, Disco, and Freeform Partner Dancing (1950s– 1980s)

● Music: Rock, soul, and disco brought highly rhythmic, emotionally charged beats to dance floors.

● Quality of Connection: Partner dancing became freer and more experimental. Connections could shift quickly — from close embraces to open, energetic spins — allowing greater personal expression.

●Relationship Dynamics: Roles between partners loosened; although traditional "leading" remained common, dances allowed for more mutual negotiation, playfulness, and even occasional role-switching.

6. Contemporary Partner Dancing: Fusion, Blues, Neo-Tango, and Beyond (1990s–Today)

● Music: Modern dancers move to an incredible variety of styles— acoustic, electronic, global rhythms, vintage jazz.

● Quality of Connection: Connection today is highly responsive, sensitive, and collaborative. Dancers share a physical and emotional dialogue, often blurring traditional roles or choosing them consciously, regardless of gender.

● Relationship Dynamics: Partnership has evolved toward mutual listening, consent, and shared creativity, reflecting broader social shifts toward equality, authenticity, and personal agency.

Key Takeaways

● The popular music of each era deeply shaped the quality of connection between dance partners — from rigid and formal to playful and conversational.

● As social norms evolved, so did the way dancers related: sometimes reinforcing tradition, other times inviting bold experiments in connection and expression.

● Today, partner dancing often embodies a living conversation — a blend of leadership, listening, invitation, and mutual trust.

Final Thought:

Dance has always been more than movement. It is a mirror of how people meet, listen, trust, and create together — across generations, cultures, and dreams.

A List of American popular social dances with a slow-quick-quick two-step rhythm, arranged from the slowest to the fastest tempo, including a beats per minute (BPM) range for each dance

1. Nightclub Two-Step

Tempo: Slow (60-70 BPM) Character: Nightclub Two-Step is smooth and flowing, often danced to contemporary ballads, emphasizing long, sweeping movements and a relaxed, romantic feel. Similarities: Like Tango and West Coast Swing, it focuses on smooth and controlled movements. Differences: It is slower and more flowing compared to the more rhythmically intricate dances like West Coast Swing and East Coast Swing.

2. Foxtrot

Tempo: Slow to Moderate. Foxtrot (120-136 BPM), Faster Foxtrot (145- 170bpm).  Character: Foxtrot is elegant and smooth, with continuous, flowing motion. It is characterized by long, gliding steps and a distinctive rise and fall. Similarities: Shares smooth, flowing movements with Nightclub Two-Step. Differences: More structured and formal, with a characteristic rise and fall that is not present in Nightclub Two-Step or Tango.

3. West Coast Swing

Tempo: Moderate to Fast (100-125 BPM) Character: West Coast Swing is versatile and smooth, with a distinctive elastic look. It is often danced to blues, R&B, and contemporary pop music. It features slot dancing, where the follower moves back and forth in a straight line. Similarities: Shares smooth, controlled movements with Nightclub Two-Step and Tango. Differences: More rhythmically intricate and playful, with a slot dancing style that distinguishes it from the more open styles of Foxtrot and Nightclub Two-Step.

4. East Coast Swing

Tempo: Moderate to Fast (136-144 BPM) Character: East Coast Swing is lively and upbeat, characterized by a bouncy feel and a lot of turns and spins. It is often danced to rock and roll, big band, and swing music. Similarities: Shares a playful and energetic feel with West Coast Swing. Differences: The bouncy and energetic nature of East Coast Swing contrasts with the smoother, more controlled style of West Coast Swing.

5. Milonga

Tempo: Fast (100-130 BPM) Character: Milonga is lively and playful, often considered the faster, more rhythmic cousin of Tango. It features quick steps and a lot of rhythmic play. Similarities: Shares the close connection and some steps with Tango. Differences: Faster and more rhythmic, with less emphasis on the dramatic, staccato movements of Tango.

6. Charleston

Tempo: Fast (200-300 BPM) Character: Charleston is energetic and exuberant, characterized by its distinctive kick steps and swinging arms. It originated in the 1920s and is often danced to jazz music. Similarities: Shares an upbeat and lively character with East Coast Swing. Differences: The kick steps and exuberant style of Charleston set it apart from the more partner-focused East Coast Swing.

7. Balboa

Tempo: Fastest (180-250 BPM) Character: Balboa is a fast-paced and smooth dance that originated in Southern California. It is characterized by its close hold and intricate footwork, often danced to fast swing music. Similarities: Like Charleston, it is danced to fast music and has a lively character. Differences: The close hold and intricate footwork of Balboa make it distinct from the more open and exuberant style of Charleston.

Summary of Similarities and Differences:

• Similarities: All these dances share a slow-quick-quick rhythm and involve partner connection, smooth movements, and a blend of rhythm and fluidity.
• Differences: Their tempos vary significantly, influencing the dance's energy and complexity. Nightclub Two-Step, Foxtrot, and Tango are slower and more controlled, focusing on smooth and connected movements. West Coast Swing and East Coast Swing blend rhythm and playfulness with moderate to fast tempos. Milonga, Charleston, and Balboa are faster and more energetic, each with unique stylistic elements that set them apart from the others.

What is Casual Ballroom at Portland Dance Eclectic

At Dance Eclectic, Casual Ballroom is designed to create an atmosphere of openness and freedom, encouraging dancers to craft their own unique experiences. Casual Ballroom combines the elegance and structure of traditional partner dances with the laid-back, inclusive, and joyful atmosphere that defines our community. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Elements of Casual Ballroom:

Inclusivity and Accessibility:

Open to All Levels: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Casual Ballroom welcomes everyone. There’s no pressure to perform at a high level; the focus is on enjoying the dance and the community.

Variety of Dances: Our sessions include Waltz, Swing, Blues, Latin, Ballroom, and Argentine Tango, offering a mix of tempos and styles to suit different preferences and moods.

Relaxed Atmosphere:

Casual Dress and Good Hygiene: Comfortable and expressive attire is encouraged, allowing dancers to feel at ease and authentic.

Proper Etiquette: Emphasizes good etiquette both on the dance floor and in person-to-person interactions, ensuring a respectful and pleasant environment.

Social Interaction: Highlights the social aspect of dancing, encouraging mingling, conversation, and building connections among dancers.

Exploration and Freedom:

Improvisation: Encourages improvisation and personal expression within the dances, allowing dancers to explore and play with the music and their movements.

Fusion of Styles: Promotes blending elements from different dances, creating a unique and eclectic experience that reflects the diverse tastes of the community.

Community and Joy:

Friendly and Supportive Environment: Fosters a sense of community where dancers support and encourage each other, creating a positive and uplifting atmosphere.

Joy of Dance: Prioritizes the joy and fun of dancing over technical perfection, ensuring that every dance night is a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Music Played at Casual Ballroom Dances:

Swing: Energetic and upbeat, perfect for those who enjoy lively music and playful movements.

Blues: Smooth and expressive, offering a chance to connect deeply with the music and your partner.

Waltz: Graceful and flowing, ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of classic ballroom.

Argentine Tango.  is passionate and intricate, allowing dancers to explore intense musicality and deep connection. Most of the Tango music played will be Alternative Tango, featuring non-traditional tracks that can be danced in various styles beyond classic tango. This encourages creative expression and versatility on the dance floor.

Latin Two-Steps: Including Nightclub Two-Step and Tango, offering a variety of rhythms and styles.

By blending these elements, Dance Eclectic’s Casual Ballroom creates a unique dance experience that is both sophisticated and accessible, offering a space where everyone can feel inspired to express themselves through dance.

Here are the typical steps per minute (SPM) for various activities, from walking at different paces to more dynamic activities like running, and social dancing

The tempo of the music greatly influences the style of dance that can be performed. By comparing dance tempos to the tempo of various walking styles, it's clear why many dances have a sweet spot in the 115 to 140 beats per minute (BPM) range. For example, two steps can be translated into steps per minute (SPM) using the formula: SPM = 1.5 x BPM. It's an interesting concept to consider.

Walking

1. Good Pace

   Steps per Minute: 90-100 SPM

   Description: A leisurely walk, often for relaxation or casual conversation.

2. Normal Pace:

   Steps per Minute: 100-120 SPM

   Description: Average walking speed, comfortable and sustainable for most people.

3. Brisk Pace:

   Steps per Minute: 120-140 SPM

   Description: A faster walking pace, typically for exercise or when in a hurry.

Jogging and Running

4. Jogging:

   Steps per Minute: 140-170 SPM

   Description: A light run, faster than walking but not as intense as running.

5. Running:

  Steps per Minute: 170-200+ SPM

   Description: A faster and more intense pace than jogging, often for more serious exercise or competition.

Marching

6. Marching:

   Steps per Minute: 120-140 SPM

   Description: A consistent and rhythmic pace, often used in military or parade contexts.

Sports and Dancing

7. Playing Tennis:

   Steps per Minute: 90-120 SPM (variable)

   Description: Includes bursts of activity and movement in various directions, not continuous.

8. Social Basketball Game:

   Steps per Minute: 100-130 SPM (variable)

   Description: Includes periods of high activity with quick sprints and slower movements during gameplay.

9. Dancing at Portland Dance Eclectic:

   Steps per Minute 115-145 SPM (variable)

    Description: Continuous movement to the beat of the music, For waltz, Steps per minute equals Beats per minute. The waltz style is the Cross Step Waltz taught by Uwe and Colleen.

These ranges provide a general idea of the step rates for various activities. The exact number of steps per minute can vary based on individual pace, fitness level, and the specific nature of the activity.

Playlist for the Mardi Gras Sunday Waltz Brunch- 2/15/15

	Title	Artist	BPM	Genre
	The Lovers' Waltz	Garrison Keillor	118.391	Waltz Slow
	When winter comes	Chris De Burgh	115.000	waltz slow
	Bei Mir Bist Du Schon	Flying Neutrinos	194.780	Swing EC fast
	Tout le monde	Carla Bruni	136.780	Waltz medium
	Tu m'as fait rire	BeauSoleil	88.295	Cajun
	Julie's Waltz	Mark Schatz	113.325	waltz slow
	Makin Whoopee	Dr John & Rickie Lee Jones	105.000	Swing west coast
	New Cajun Waltz	Heidi Talbot	120.202	waltz slow
	Let the Good Times Roll	Cedric Watson	101.909	Zydeco
	Its a sin to tell a lie	Beausoleil	124.583	waltz cajun
	Walk	Kwabs	144.000	Night Club Two Step
	Graves	Benjy Davis Project	147.743	Waltz fast
	Breaking My Own Heart	Duffy	120.002	Swing west coast
	C'Est Un Peche	Ann Savoy	116.000	waltz cajun
	When the Saints Go Marching In	The Original Wildcat Jass Band	104.215	Swing EC fast
	Oh Pauline	Tom Rigney	115.261	waltz slow
	The Long Way Home	Norah Jones	144.538	Two Step
	Old man waltz	Calexico	138.977	Waltz medium
	Tu Y Yo	Thalia / Kumbia Kings	80.040	mambo
	Je M'Endors	Michael Doucet	128.701	waltz cajun
	Back To The 50's	Keith Frank	147.890	Zydeco
	Primavera	Ludovico Einaudi	128.041	waltz slow
	Put the Gun Down	ZZ Ward	104.998	Blues West Coast
	I'd Rather Go Blind (Live)	Paloma Faith	79.577	Waltz Blues
	Sacre Coeur	Tina Dico	141.981	Night Club Two Step
	Nothing Else Matters	Apocalyptica	137.577	Waltz medium
	Absinthe-Minded Gypsy	Adrian Raso & Fanfare Ciocarlia	130.002	one step
	Expression	Helen Jane Long	130.250	waltz slow
	Sing	Ed Sheeran	123.000	Blues West Coast
	Somebody To Love	Valerie June	124.410	waltz slow
	Crabbuckit [Canada]	k-os	189.000	Swing EC fast
	Les 'Tites Yeaux Noirs	Jambalaya Cajun Band	116.487	waltz cajun
	Thrift shop	Lindsey Stirling, Tyler Ward	95.000	Tango Non tango
	As Much As You Lead	Lex Land	108.928	waltz slow
	Boom Boom Ba	Metisse	60.026	Cha Cha
	Flightless Bird, American Mouth	Iron & Wine	145.910	Waltz medium
	Sinkin' Soon	Norah Jones	100.892	Blues West Coast
	Buachaill on Eirne	The Corrs	141.999	Waltz medium
	Tu es mon autre	Lara Fabian	132.573	Night Club Two Step
	Some Of These Days	The Red Stick Ramblers	121.413	Cajun
	Tante Nana	Jeffery Broussard	112.030	waltz cajun
	La flaca (feat. Juanes)	Santana	102.998	Cha cha
	Illumielle	Jo Blankenburg	70.000	waltz fast
	The Wonderful in You	Caro Emerald	75.000	Swing twostep
	carino	Chris Spheeris	110.235	waltz slow
	Thinking Out Loud	Ed Sheeran	158.000	Night Club Two Step
	She Walks in Beauty	Bill Douglas	135.268	Waltz slow
	Waltz of Souls	Adam Hurst	121.468	New Age