Line dancing offers a fantastic way to get your body moving and have a blast, and the Copperhead Road Line Dance is a true crowd-pleaser. Known for being both fun and accessible, this dance is a staple at country dance venues and social gatherings alike. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting out, the Copperhead Road Line Dance is easy to pick up and guaranteed to get you tapping your feet.
The Ballad of Copperhead Road: Song and Dance Origins
While the choreographer of the Copperhead Road Line Dance remains a mystery, the story behind the song “Copperhead Road” is well-documented and adds a rich layer to the dance itself. Written and performed by Steve Earle, the song, released in 1988, spins a narrative around the infamous Copperhead Road in Tennessee, also known as “Big Dry Run.”
During the Prohibition era, this secluded road served as a clandestine route for bootleggers running moonshine. Years later, the song tells of a bootlegger’s son returning from the Vietnam War to continue illicit activities, this time cultivating marijuana along the same Copperhead Road. This outlaw tale provides a rebellious and energetic backdrop to the line dance.
Locals confirm that the song’s narrative is rooted in reality, with Copperhead Road indeed being a site of bootlegging and later marijuana cultivation. The name “Copperhead” itself is rumored to derive from the copper tubing used in moonshine stills. Purchasing copper could attract unwanted attention from authorities, becoming a risky endeavor, much like the bite of a copperhead snake.
Master the Copperhead Road Line Dance: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to learn the steps? The Copperhead Road Line Dance is a relatively short sequence that repeats, making it easy to memorize and join in. Here’s a breakdown to get you started:
Step Breakdown:
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Forward Kicks (Counts 1-8):
- Kick your Right foot forward, then stomp it down. (Counts 1, 2)
- Kick your Left foot forward, then stomp it down. (Counts 3, 4)
- Repeat two more times: Right kick stomp, Left kick stomp. (Counts 5, 6, 7, 8)
-
Right Heel Kicks Out (Counts 1-4):
- Extend your Right heel diagonally to the right side. (Count 1)
- Bring your Right toes in, crossing in front of your left knee. (Count 2)
- Extend your Right heel diagonally to the right side again. (Count 3)
- Stomp your Right foot down. (Count 4)
-
Left Heel Kicks Out (Counts 5-8):
- Extend your Left heel diagonally to the left side. (Count 5)
- Bring your Left toes in, crossing in front of your right knee. (Count 6)
- Extend your Left heel diagonally to the left side again. (Count 7)
- Stomp your Left foot down. (Count 8)
-
Repeat Forward Kicks (Counts 1-8):
- Perform the same forward kicks as in step 1: Right kick stomp, Left kick stomp, Right kick stomp, Left kick stomp (Counts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
-
Rock and Turn (Counts 1-8):
- Rock forward onto your Right foot. (Count 1)
- Replace your weight back onto your Left foot. (Count 2)
- Step to the side with your Right foot. (Count 3)
- Close your Left foot next to your Right foot while making a ¼ turn to the left. (Count 4)
- Repeat the 4 count rock and turn sequence again, completing a half turn to the left in total over these two sets. (Counts 5, 6, 7, 8)
Repeat: Start back at the beginning and continue repeating the sequence until the song ends!
Tips for Stepping onto Copperhead Road
- Start Slow: Practice each step slowly at first to get the footwork down. Once you feel comfortable, gradually increase your speed to match the music.
- Listen to the Music: The rhythm of “Copperhead Road” is key to feeling the dance. Pay attention to the beat and let it guide your movements.
- Visualize the Steps: Mentally walk through the steps before you physically try them. This can help with muscle memory and coordination.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Keep practicing, and you’ll be line dancing with confidence in no time.
- Have Fun! Line dancing is all about enjoying the music and the movement. Relax, smile, and let loose!
The Copperhead Road Line Dance is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy country music and dance. Its straightforward steps and catchy tune make it a hit for dancers of all levels. So put on Steve Earle’s “Copperhead Road,” clear some space, and get ready to line dance your way down Copperhead Road!
Resources:
- Copperhead Road song information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copperhead_Road_(song)
- Songfacts for Copperhead Road: https://www.songfacts.com/lyrics/steve-earle/copperhead-road
