Soulstepping

Traces the development of stepping in black Greek fraternities and sororities, examines the African and African American roots of stepping, and documents the spread of stepping to new venues and participants. The author draws on interviews with individuals on college campuses and steppers and stepping coaches for this work.

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Stepping is a complex performance that melds folk traditions with popular culture and involves synchronized percussive movement, singing, speaking, chanting, and drama. Elizabeth C. Fine's stunningly elaborate and vibrant portrayal of the cultural politics of stepping draws on interviews with individuals on college campuses and steppers and stepping coaches from high schools, community groups, churches, and dance organizations. Soulstepping is the first book to document the history of stepping, its roots in African and African American culture, and its transformation by churches, schools, and social groups into a powerful tool for instilling group identity and community involvement.