DJ Chrisbe’s Song of the Week #8: Alreet

I often get asked what makes a Swing song a typical Balboa song. This is a very good question but from my point of view only a subjective answer could be given.

Generally we could say – and this is broken down to a very simple quote – that danceable Swing music from the 30s and the first half of the 40s is a good source for Balboa dancing, while R&B from the later 40s and 50s is not suitable.

Of course we could go now much more in details but I rather show you good examples. Let's start with the tune Alreet by Anita O'Day (1919-2006) and Gene Krupa & His Orchestra.

The rhythm section with bass and drums is great and pushes the song forward. When I hear this song I wanna dance Balboa immediately!

By the way, there is a documentary about Anita O'Day's career:

Anita O'Day – The Life Of A Jazz Singer

You can find the songs of the series also on my Spotify playlist.
Official hashtag of the series: #djcsotw

Do you like the “Song of the Week” series? Share your thoughts below.

Now Check out:

• Song of the Week #7: “No More Love” by Buddy Johnson
• Song of the Week #6: “The Gal From Joe's” by Charlie Barnet
• Song of the Week #5: “The Game Of Love” by Fairground Attraction