LIFE magazine, August 1938

“Jitterbugs are extreme Swing addicts who get so excited by its music that they cannot stand or be still while it is being played. They must prace around in wild exhibitionist dances.”

This article is a really interesting insight into the Jitterbug dance craze was perceived by the Jazz scene. Apparently  to the ‘hot musician’ the Jitterbugs are plain poison! A rowdy crowd only humoured because they helped to bring prosperity to Swing music. It really is an interesting insight into a different era. It’s quite clear that the author believe that Jitterbug is the worst thing that could have ever happened to Jazz! Perhaps the funniest bit is the photo on page 57 where they have tried to illustrate the effect of Swing on a Jitterbugger.  The poor woman looks deranged!

The whole magazine is packed with great articles but this is part of a special feature on Swing – as ‘the hottest and best kind of Jazz reaches it’s Golden Age.’

At the end of the article LIFE compile a list of swing records – apparently  from ‘considered opinions of experts!’ ‘They form the nucleus of a good collection for those who want to know more about hot music.’

If you are a Spotify user you can listen to their list of ‘30 Great Hot Records’ here

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