Funky Butt
Named after Buddy Bolden's New Orleans hall — low posture, hip-forward, blues and ragtime. Originated in New Orleans · Late 19th–early 20th c.. Typically danced around 70-100 BPM (slow to medium).
About Funky Butt
- Blues Dance
- New Orleans
- Late 19th–early 20th c.
- 70-100 BPM (Slow to medium)
- Both
- Approachable
Named after Buddy Bolden's hall; low, hip-forward posture; blues and ragtime.
What to expect: More of a historical blues vocabulary term than a codified dance today. Encountered at blues socials and vintage jazz events that celebrate New Orleans dance history.
Lineage
Roots
Where to find Funky Butt events
We don't have verified funky butt events on the calendar right now. Check the full event feed for related styles, or submit one if you organize.
Going for the first time
Blues dance nights welcome solo dancers and lead/follow alike. The dance is connection-first and improvisational — listen to the song, respond to your partner. Many events include a lesson before the late-night.
Consent matters more here than almost anywhere. Ask before close embrace. Thank your partner after one or two songs unless they ask for more.