Bigraphy: Bill Bojangles Robinson, his life, times and influence on the world of tap.

Subject  > Art Essays  > Performing Arts

Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson Bill Robinson was known as the pioneer of tap dancing. He paved the way so others might follow in his footsteps. Robinson changed the course of tapping forever, simply by listening to the music in his soul. Some viewed him as a hero and a leader. Others viewed him as a great entertainer. But there were those who knew him as Mr. Bojangles, a man who would dance and smile. "He talked of life, he talked of life, He laugh-slapped his leg a step. He said the name, Bojangles, and he danced a lick, he jumped up high, He clicked his heels. He let go a laugh, he let go a laugh, I heard someone ask him please ...

... down to Broadway and into the theater where he was performing at the time (Dejoir). One time, before a class he was teaching, he just started dancing for over an hour without ever repeating a step. When asked how it was possible he replied by simply stating that his head had nothing to do with it, his feet responded directly to the music (Kathleen). A very unique talent he had was to run backwards, running up to 75 yards in 8.2 seconds. He would even race athletes running forward, and would win (Robinson). He was also very protective of his steps, and no one dared attempt to steal them in his sight. But if one

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