The Pink Shoelaces dance is a fun and energetic line dance that has been popular at parties and events for decades. Though many people know the dance, the exact origin of its name remains a mystery. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Pink Shoelaces dance, its distinguishing moves, and its continued popularity over the years.
History and Origins
The Pink Shoelaces dance first emerged as a fad in the 1970s. At the time, line dancing was growing rapidly in popularity, especially at country-western bars and dance halls. New line dances were being invented all the time by dancing enthusiasts looking to liven up the party.
The exact creator of the Pink Shoelaces dance remains unknown. Some accounts say it was first choreographed and performed in Oklahoma or Texas, while others claim it originated in the Midwest. Regardless of where it started, by the late 1970s the Pink Shoelaces had become a line dancing sensation practiced across the United States.
So where does the distinctive name come from? According to some reports, early performers of the dance wore pink shoelaces in their boots as a fun statement piece. Other stories say the name refers to the light, skipping dance steps which resemble pink shoelaces flopping around. Whatever the case, the catchy name helped popularize the dance and cement its place in line dancing history.
Distinctive Moves
The Pink Shoelaces is danced to upbeat country and pop music in 4/4 time. Dancers line up in rows and perform a sequence of steps facing the same direction. While the exact moves can vary slightly, the dance typically consists of these core elements:
– Grapevine steps: Dancers step sideways crossing one foot behind the other, then change direction
– Heel kicks: Dancers kick one heel forward, then switch and kick with the other heel
– Toe-heel taps: Dancers tap the toe then heel of one foot, repeating with the other foot
– Step-kicks: Dancers step forward and kick one leg up, alternating legs
– Quarter turns: Dancers make turning jumps, rotating to face a new wall of the dance space
Other moves like side steps, running steps, pivots, and hops are often incorporated too. Arm movements like claps and pumps tend to be minimal. The overall look is bouncy and energetic, with dancers moving in unison down the lines.
| Pink Shoelaces Dance Move | Description |
|---|---|
| Grapevine Steps | Step sideways crossing one foot behind the other, then change direction |
| Heel Kicks | Kick one heel forward, then switch and kick with the other heel |
| Toe-Heel Taps | Tap the toe then heel of one foot, repeating with the other foot |
| Step-Kicks | Step forward and kick one leg up, alternating legs |
| Quarter Turns | Make turning jumps, rotating to face a new wall |
Lasting Popularity
Even though disco and funk dominated dance floors in the 1980s, the Pink Shoelaces remained a country music staple. Line dancing exploded in popularity in the 1990s thanks to country hits like Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Achy Breaky Heart.” Dancers did the Pink Shoelaces alongside new dances like the Tush Push, the Stroll, and the Cowboy Hustle.
Line dancing’s popularity waned in the 2000s, but there’s still a core group that keeps the Pink Shoelaces kicking. Country nightclubs and bars from Nashville to Texas continue teaching it to new generations. Some pop artists even reference the Pink Shoelaces dance in lyrics as a symbol of country culture.
Part of the appeal lies in the dance’s accessibility – the series of repeatable steps make it easy to follow. The bouncy, energetic motions also pair well with lively music. Even people who have two left feet can usually manage some version of the Pink Shoelaces.
The dance also taps into nostalgia for the 1970s and the early heyday of line dancing. For those who danced the Pink Shoelaces back in its prime, performing the moves brings fond memories flooding back. The dance will likely retain devotees as long as country music plays and dance fans crave fun throwback steps.
Conclusion
While its exact origin remains uncertain, the Pink Shoelaces dance emerged in the 1970s as an energetic staple in country western line dancing. Distinguished by heel kicks, toe taps, and quarter turns, the infectious moves made it a nationwide craze during line dancing’s peak. Though popularity has waned, the Pink Shoelaces endures at country bars and parties as an accessible, nostalgic dance that brings generations together on the floor. So next time you’re out country dancing and a bouncy tune plays, don’t be afraid to tie on those pink shoelaces and join the line!