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.