If you’ve ever found yourself swept up by the infectious energy of ska music, you’ve likely witnessed the dynamic and distinctive dance style that goes hand-in-hand with it: Ska Dance. Often called “skanking,” this energetic and expressive form of movement is more than just random motions; it’s an integral part of the ska experience. And no band embodies the visual energy of ska dance quite like The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, thanks in large part to their dedicated dancer, Ben Carr.
For over three decades, Ben Carr has been the kinetic force on stage with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. While the band is known for their horn-driven ska punk anthems like “The Impression That I Get,” Carr provides a visual spectacle that elevates their live performances to another level. He isn’t just a background figure; he’s as much a part of the band’s identity as the music itself. His story offers a unique perspective into the world of ska dance and its significance within the culture.
From Roadie to Rhythm Embodiment: Ben Carr’s Ska Dance Journey
Ben Carr’s entry into the world of ska dance was as organic as the music itself. Starting as a roadie for The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, his place on stage wasn’t initially planned. As he recounts, it was a matter of needing to be either “21 or in the band” to stay at a venue. The band playfully declared him “in the band,” and just like that, a ska dance icon was born.
Carr’s initial role was simply to “get up there and jumped around and sang some backup vocals.” This impromptu stage presence quickly evolved into a full-time commitment to ska dance. His background wasn’t in formal dance training; it was in feeling the music and expressing it through movement. This raw, untamed energy became his signature, perfectly mirroring the lively spirit of ska.
The Essence of Ska Dance: Energy and Expression
Ska dance, or skanking, is characterized by its high energy, fast-paced steps, and arm movements. It’s a physical manifestation of the upbeat rhythms and infectious melodies of ska music. While there isn’t a rigid set of rules for ska dance, it generally involves a rhythmic stepping motion, often described as a run in place or a stylized march, combined with arm movements that can range from bent elbows pumping back and forth to wider, more flailing motions.
Ben Carr’s style exemplifies this freedom and energy. He describes his approach as “winging it” and going with “what feels right in the moment.” His signature “Hoof and Wing Step,” a shuffle into a rotating bunny hop, showcases the improvisational and fun-loving nature of ska dance. It’s about feeling the music and letting your body respond, creating a visual spectacle that amplifies the energy of the performance.
Ska Dance as a Band Dynamic: Relieving Pressure and Inspiring the Crowd
Carr believes his dancing plays a crucial role in the band’s dynamic. He humorously suggests that “it takes away the pressure of Dicky [Barrett, the lead singer] having to jump around.” By taking on the physical performance aspect, he allows the other band members to focus on their instruments while he becomes the focal point of visual energy.
More importantly, Carr sees his role as an invitation for the audience to participate in the ska spirit. He explains that his dancing is like saying, “It’s ok to dance, it’s ok to move around. We’re doing it, you guys do it!” In a live setting, his energetic movements are contagious, breaking down inhibitions and encouraging the crowd to join in the skanking frenzy. He becomes a catalyst for collective energy, transforming a concert into a shared, dynamic experience.
The Physical Demands and Dedication of a Ska Dancer
Being a ska dancer is not without its challenges. Carr openly talks about the physical toll, mentioning constantly needing to tape ankles, ice knees, and tend to blisters. He even recounts an instance of missing part of a show because he was so exhausted he fell asleep. “Sucking it up and powering through a twisted ankle or pulled hamstring is the name of the ska-dancing game,” he states, highlighting the dedication and resilience required.
Despite the physical demands, Carr’s passion for ska dance and his commitment to The Mighty Mighty Bosstones are unwavering. His longevity in the band, as one of only four original members remaining after over three decades, speaks volumes about his integral role and his enduring enthusiasm for bringing ska dance to the stage.
Ska Dance Beyond the Stage: A Cultural Movement
While Ben Carr is a prominent figure in ska dance through his work with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, ska dance itself is a broader cultural phenomenon. Originating in Jamaica in the 1960s alongside ska music, it evolved and spread globally with the different waves of ska music.
Carr points to the “original Jamaican Rude Boys of the 60s” and the “English Two-Tone movement of the 70s” as key figures in mastering skanking. He also acknowledges contemporary ska bands like Less Than Jake and Streetlight Manifesto, and even Gwen Stefani, for their impressive ska dance skills, showcasing the dance style’s continued evolution and adaptation across different artists and eras.
Ska dance is more than just a series of steps; it’s a form of expression deeply intertwined with the spirit of ska music. It’s about letting loose, feeling the rhythm, and connecting with the music on a physical level. Whether you’re watching Ben Carr command the stage with The Mighty Mighty Bosstones or joining in the skanking at a local ska show, experiencing ska dance is experiencing the heart and soul of ska culture.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Ska Dance
Ska music and ska dance continue to resonate with audiences worldwide because of their infectious energy and their ability to create a sense of community and shared experience. Ben Carr and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones have played a significant role in keeping this spirit alive, demonstrating the enduring appeal of ska dance through their passionate performances. So, the next time you hear that upbeat ska rhythm, don’t just stand there – let loose, embrace the energy, and maybe even try a skank or two. You might just discover the exhilarating freedom of ska dance for yourself.
