The transformative power of dance is undeniable, especially when combined with the timeless music of the Rolling Stones.
It can create a spectacle that leaves audiences spellbound.
This is the story of Jason Colacino and Katie Boyle, a renowned West Coast Swing dance team, whose performance to the Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Women” has captivated over 10 million viewers online.
Their unique talent continues to resonate with audiences, even after Colacino’s untimely passing due to pneumonia and an enlarged heart at the age of 31.
The viral video showcases the duo’s flawless dance moves, perfectly synchronized with the rhythm of “Honky Tonk Women.”
The song, originally recorded by the Rolling Stones in 1969, has been covered by numerous country artists over the years.
Despite its country-music sounding name, it was actually inspired by Brazilian “Caipiras” music, penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards during a vacation in Brazil.
The performance by Colacino and Boyle is a mesmerizing blend of swing dance and line dance, characterized by what can only be described as “elasticity.”
This is hardly surprising considering Colacino’s dance background, which includes line dancing, salsa, Argentine tango, jazz, ballet, and ballroom dancing.
Boyle, on the other hand, began her diverse dance training at the tender age of 2.
West Coast Swing, the dance style they perform, is a partner dance rooted in the classic Lindy Hop.
It heavily relies on improvisation between partners, making each routine highly personalized.
There are even competitions that assign random partners to test how well participants can lead and follow, leaving little room for choreography but plenty of space for individuality and chemistry between dancers.
The routine begins with hip movements that would make Mick Jagger proud, followed by a series of twists and slides that get the crowd on their feet.
The couple seems to glide effortlessly across the floor, their fancy footwork making it seem as if they’re floating.
This is interspersed with a series of lifts that showcase their balance and strength.
The performance is so seamless and effortless that no single still image can truly capture its essence.
It’s something that needs to be seen in motion to be fully appreciated.
The routine was part of a competition, and unsurprisingly, they were awarded the first prize, a testament to their exceptional talent.
More than a decade later, the performance continues to garner praise from viewers online.
One viewer commented, “OMG! Every time I watch this I am awestruck!”
Many also expressed their sorrow over Colacino’s untimely passing, with one viewer stating, “After having watched dancing videos of all types for over 50+ years, in my humble opinion THIS IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST I HAVE EVER SEEN!! Jason and Katie, the moves of both, and the music are all just stellar. I’m so sorry and saddened that Jason and Katie didn’t get to spend 100 years together! God bless them both!”
The video of their performance was posted in 2011, more than two years after Colacino’s death, and has since amassed over 10 million views.
The duo’s skills have left such a lasting impression that their videos often rank in the millions of views, proving that their talent continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
This memorable performance to “Honky Tonk Women” proves the enduring legacy of talented performers like Jason Colacino and Katie Boyle.
Their performance is not just a dance routine; it’s a celebration of music, rhythm, and the human spirit.
It’s a reminder of the joy and beauty that dance can bring into our lives, and the lasting impact it can have on audiences, even years after the performance.
Watch their fun performance in the video below!
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