American line dancing developed from contra dances and was influenced by English and French folk dances. During the 1960s, contra dances transformed into line dancing. The Tush Push in 1980 is considered the first choreographed line dance, while the 1992 song "Achy Breaky Heart" drew international attention to American line dancing and linked it to country and western music. Line dances involve groups standing in lines and performing choreographed steps together to country and western music, which typically has a simple melody and rhythm, 4/4 time signature, and uses instruments like banjo, steel guitar, and harmonica.

1. American Line Dance

2. Background The lack of physical contact meant that line dancing was socially accepted long before any couple dances. Line dancing in America is thought to have developed out of the contra dance. Contra dances was influenced by English and French folk dances.

3. Background During the 1960s the contra dance transformed into line dancing. The First choreographed line dance is considered to be the Tush Push, from 1980. In 1992 the hit song Achy Breaky Heart drew international attention to American Line dancing. The song also linked Line dancing with country and western.

4. The Dance Stand in lines Many types of steps eg. Boot scoot Some have simple and some have complex dance structures Each dance has a number of walls.

5. Musical Characteristics Most commonly associated with country and western music. Simple melody, rhythms and harmony 4/4 with accented 1st and 3rd beats Single melody harmonised by backing singers Only 2 or 3 chords-mainly tonic and dominant Steady crotchet moment in the bass line Regular 4 bar phrases Verse & Chorus structure Slides in the melody and accompaniment

6. Instruments Banjo Steel guitar Harmonica Accordion Drums