Since its inception, the American Swing Dancing Championships (ASDC) have been held annually, serving as a stage for some of the most talented dancers in the country. Over the years, the competition has evolved in both structure and style to reflect the changing face of modern dance. Categories have come and gone, and the choreography has shifted with the times. But every now and then, something from the past reemerges—reminding us all of the timeless beauty of dance. That’s exactly what happened recently when a long-lost VHS recording of the 1995 ASDC Open Swing Finals resurfaced online, captivating a whole new generation of dance enthusiasts.
The video features a shag dance routine, a style of swing dance often performed to beach music. Shag, sometimes referred to as “beach bop” or “Carolina beach music,” is most commonly known today as the “Carolina shag.” Over the decades, this partner dance has seen several stylistic adaptations, including college shag and other regional interpretations. While younger audiences may see it as a relic of a bygone era, shag dancing has remained a staple in sanctioned competitions across the U.S. and abroad. Typically performed to music in 4/4 time with tempos ranging from 100 to 130 beats per minute, shag has a distinctive rhythm and flair that separates it from other forms of swing.
In the now-viral video, dancers Jackie McGee and Charlie Womble take center stage in a performance that perfectly blends tradition with 1990s attitude. Their routine, recorded in Atlanta, Georgia during the 1995 ASDC finals, is a masterclass in precision, rhythm, and connection. Dressed in matching pant suits—a bold fashion statement even by today’s standards—the duo moves with a harmony that only years of practice and partnership can deliver. From the moment they begin until the final beat, their synchronization is flawless. Each step, spin, and slide is timed to perfection, and the modest audience reacts with enthusiastic applause throughout the three-minute routine.
The video has struck a chord with viewers not just for its nostalgic value, but for the sheer joy and skill on display. Dance fans both young and old have praised the duo’s chemistry and technical excellence. It’s easy to see why Jackie and Charlie won the competition that year. Their ability to stay in perfect sync while injecting just enough flair to stand out is what makes their performance so memorable. And while the song choice might feel like a time capsule from the mid-90s, it adds to the charm and context of the era.
Many who stumbled across the video were surprised to learn that the shag dance still holds a respected place in the competitive dance world. Despite being labeled as “old-fashioned” by some, it continues to thrive among enthusiasts who cherish its cultural roots and lively steps. Watching Jackie and Charlie feels like stepping into a different time—a reminder that dance, like music, has the power to transport us across decades. It’s not just about the moves, but the emotions, stories, and connections they convey.
Since being uploaded online after being converted from an old VHS tape, the video has spread across social platforms, especially among those who enjoy retro content or are part of dance communities. Some viewers recalled watching the dance live or participating in similar competitions in the ’90s, while others simply enjoyed the artistry and nostalgia. The recording has even encouraged some younger dancers to look into shag dancing, perhaps sparking a resurgence of interest in a style that once dominated Southern dance halls.
What makes the timing even more special is that the 2019 Shag Championship finals are right around the corner. Dance fans now have the opportunity to compare routines separated by more than two decades. How has shag evolved? Are today’s dancers more technically advanced? Or is there a certain magic in the simplicity and charisma of older performances like Jackie and Charlie’s? These are the kinds of questions that keep dance culture vibrant and ever-evolving.
In the end, the resurfaced 1995 shag dance video is more than just a nostalgic clip—it’s a celebration of legacy, rhythm, and connection. It reminds us that great performances never truly fade. They live on through memories, recordings, and the next generation of dancers who find inspiration in the footsteps of those who came before. Whether you’re a longtime shag lover or discovering it for the first time, this video is a testament to the joy and artistry of swing dance at its finest.
