Swing Music

Swing music is a fun, upbeat style of jazz. It became popular in the 1930s and 1940s. Big bands with trumpets, saxophones, and drums played swing music. People loved to dance to swing. The music has a bouncy rhythm that makes your feet tap.

The Swing Era

The 1930s and 1940s are called the Swing Era. Big bands led by Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie played in dance halls. Thousands of people came to dance. Swing dances like the Lindy Hop and the Jitterbug were very popular. It was a happy time for music.

Swing Dancing

Swing music created many fun dances. The Lindy Hop started in Harlem, New York. Partners swung each other around and did flips. The Jitterbug was a faster version. Swing dancing is still popular today. Many cities have swing dance clubs where people learn the old steps.

Fun Facts

• Benny Goodman was called the King of Swing.
• The Lindy Hop was named after aviator Charles Lindbergh's famous flight.
• Some swing bands had over 15 musicians playing together.

Did You Know?

During the Swing Era, dance halls were so crowded that people had to wait in line for hours just to get in!