Inventing a New Dance: The Evolution of Blues and Fusion

The evolution of a dance can be a complex and fascinating process, much like the evolution of life itself. Dances often form and evolve based on a mix of music, cultural influence, and creative expressions by individuals. In this article, we explore the intricate journey of two unique dance styles that emerged from the fusion of traditional blues and tango: Blues and Fusion. We'll delve into the mechanics, evolution, and controversies surrounding these dances, providing insights for both seasoned dancers and newcomers.

From Evolution to New Species

A dance's creation is akin to a species evolving. Just as two species become distinct due to their inability to interbreed, a new dance form emerges when the components and mechanics become too divergent. In the context of dance, this means distinct styles with unique dynamics and communication methods.

Blues and Tango: The Mechanism and Assumptions

Blues is heavily influenced by strong physical connection and counter-balance, relying on a shared sense of tension and tonality. On the other hand, Tango emphasizes lead and follow dynamics with a more dynamic and projective intention. These two dances, while sharing mechanical similarities, have distinct assumptions that set them apart—much like how different species have distinct genomic features.

The Birth of Fusion

Fusion emerged from a unique experiment combining the mechanical principles of Tango and Blues. This fusion led to the development of 'neutral' postures, where the tensions and tones could be manipulated independently, leading to more versatile and connected movements. This innovation allowed dancers to play with muscle tone and tension, blurring the lines between lead and follow, and eventually leading to the concept of 'lead-switching.'

Neutrality and Muscle Dynamics

The introduction of neutrality in dance mechanics paved the way for a more flexible and expressive form of movement. Essentially, this meant that dancers could 'dance small' to faster music, making their movements more nuanced and sophisticated. This approach was a significant improvement over previous iterations, which often felt heavy and forceful to the followers.

The Global Argument and Controversy

As Fusion and Blues evolved, a global debate over what constitutes 'true' Blues emerged. This argument, fueled by semantics around terms like 'pulse,' led to a splinter group calling themselves 'Fusion.' This group wished to preserve the unique mechanics that had been developed, while also maintaining a clear distinction from traditional Blues.

Preserving and Evolving Traditions

The debate and adaptation of these dance styles parallel the linguistic evolution of a language. Just as 'LOL' becomes a part of the language over time, dance forms also evolve to include new styles and mechanics. The 'argument' for blues and Fusion was not just about tradition but also about the freedom to innovate and adapt to new music and movements.

The Future of Blues and Fusion

The future of Blues and Fusion remains uncertain. Both are dynamic and ever-evolving, with the potential to cross-pollinate and blend further. Despite attempts to centralize these dance forms, they remain vibrant and diverse, with each scene and community contributing unique interpretations and innovations.

Conclusion

Inventing and evolving a dance form is a complex process that involves creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of the mechanics of movement. As we continue to explore and experiment with new forms of expression, we are reminded that the evolution of culture and art is a continuous, ever-changing process. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a curious newcomer, there is always something new to discover in the world of dance.