Stepping (African-American)

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Stepping or step-dancing (a type of step dance) is a form of percussive dance in African-American culture. The performer's entire body is used as an instrument to produce complex rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken word, and hand claps. Though stepping may be performed by an individual, it is generally performed by groups of three or more, often in arrangements that resemble military formations.

Stepping may also draw from elements of gymnastics, break dance, tap dance, march, or African and Caribbean dance, or include stunts as a part of individual routines. The speed of the step depends upon the desired beat and rhythm of the performers. Some forms of stepping include the use of props, such as canes, rhythm sticks and/or fire and blindfolds.

The dance tradition of stepping draws from a variety of roots in American and African culture but was fostered and popularized by African American fraternities and sororities, beginning in the 1900s. These groups participate in stepping as a form of competition between one another, but also with cooperative spirit, such that groups from neighboring universities will visit and exchange moves and styles [Fine]. The dance is also commonly performed by groups in elementary, middle, and high schools as well as churches (as highlighted in the 2017 documentary Step).