3 The Slow Drag

COURSE: late-night-blues

FOCUS: This lesson introduces the slow drag, the oldest known partnered blues dance, focusing on its history and foundational role in the course, with the goal of practicing its simple, continuous stepping and close embrace.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Start with weight on the left foot and step and drag slowly without stopping.
• Focus on the drag motion and avoid a double pause unlike the basic step.
• Play with body shape by leaning slightly or changing posture while staying upright.
• Imagine embracing your partner and move towards them to find a close, squishy embrace.
• Decide on arm connection and hip spacing to maintain the slow drag feeling.
• Think of partners hanging off each other with informal arms for a draped, tired feeling.

REMEMBER:

• The slow drag originated as a non-dance to avoid lifting or crossing feet due to historical sanctions.
• Less is more in this dance; simplicity and minimal movement enhance the experience.
• Focus on comfort and how the connection feels rather than external appearance.
• The dance emphasizes a continuous, slow step with a strong drag component.
• Embrace the feeling of hanging off your partner for an authentic slow drag experience.
• Check additional resources for more on the slow drag's interesting history.