People came to Detroit's ballrooms to forget about the war and their financial troubles. Certainly, they came because they knew there would be great swing bands playing such as Glenn Miller and Arite Shaw. Heck, you even had the chance of spotting Joe Louis on occasion! No-one cared if you were rich or poor because you all came to dance and enjoy the bands!
Can you believe that dancing was so loved during these times, people even danced on the streets of Detroit?! Local businesses, such as Wonder Bread, would place speakers on their trucks and play music while people had dance riots in the streets! Wishing for a time-machine yet? :)
Furthermore, being a musician, I digress at how so many important bands/jazz musicians, black or white, where in love with Detroit's vibrant swagger. Swing dance and music was such an important part of Detroit culture and it's what brought people together from all walks of life even during the most depressing of times.
Undoubtedly, as our country faces these current troubling times, we find refuge in television series such as Dancing With the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance. However, I feel that instead of simply watching these amazing performers, we need to get up off our couches and DANCE!! I believe that dance (along with music) is the best medicine for the soul and brings vitality into the most downtrodden of communities.
Happy Dancing!!:)
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