Swingbooty Stirs Up a Dance Scene in East
Tennessee
By: Sandra Coleman
Jazz manouche (or gypsy jazz) first found its rhythm in the dance halls of Paris during the 1930s, while across the Atlantic, swing music was energizing dance clubs in the U.S. Today, Swingbooty, a seven-piece gypsy swing band, is shaking up the music and dance scene in East Tennessee. With a modern twist, their lively sound attracts more than just swing dancers.
At a recent show, hip-hop dancer Susan Miller shared her surprise: “I never imagined I could bring hip-hop flavor to a jazz show, but Swingbooty’s groove is too smooth to resist!”
The band’s robust rhythm section and driving, upbeat solos create a sound that’s hard to stay still for. Susan added, “The solos tonight are like a conversation—each musician brings their own voice to the table, and it’s pure magic.”
A Community of Fans
Swingbooty began performing in Knoxville clubs in 2010, drawing inspiration from the legendary Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli. Their performances introduced local audiences to the spirited sounds of hot jazz, quickly building a loyal following.
“People come for the music and dancing, but I think there’s also a strong sense of community among our fans,” says
Christian Lange, the band’s founder and violinist. “I love outdoor shows where fans can bring picnics, play frisbee, and get to know one another.”
More Than Music
One of Swingbooty’s most popular events is Jazz at Ijams, held at Ijams Nature Center, a 318-acre preserve with trails and kayaking. Twice a year, hundreds gather on the main lawn to enjoy hot jazz from across the Southeast. True to Swingbooty’s style, these events combine visual arts, live music, and performance art.
“We love having live art at our shows,” says Lange. Jessica Gregory, an artist who frequently collaborates with the band, adds, “I feel like we’re part of the show.” Performances often feature jugglers, flow performers, international food vendors, and, of course, plenty of dancing. The result is a vibrant, multi-sensory experience that’s both fun and unique.
Discography and Videos
Swingbooty released its debut album, Hot Damn Them Peanuts, in 2012 as a sextet. Predominantly instrumental, the album included just one vocal track, “Mack the Knife,” featuring Clint Farley. In 2016, the band followed up with More Hot Peanuts, released on USB. This effort introduced vocalist Kady Robbins and included five live videos.
Since then, Swingbooty has shifted its focus to video releases, producing a string of songs including Sheik of Araby, Some of These Days, and Joseph Joseph in 2021; Coquette, Sweet Georgia Brown, Blue Drag, and Speak Softly
in 2023; and two concept videos, Exactly Like You and Sunny Side of the Street, in 2024.
A Match Made in Quarantine
The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a pivotal moment for Swingbooty. The band went on hiatus during the lockdown but reemerged with a new lineup forged at socially distanced jam sessions held in Lange’s backyard. Over time, these sessions evolved into the band’s current lineup: Adam Friedman and Les “Doc” Cunningham on guitars, Mike Benjamin on keys, Tom Smith on upright bass, and Sean Mantione on drums. Swingbooty also features a rotating cast of guest vocalists.
“I’ve played in various rock bands over the years, but nothing compares to playing this timeless music,” says Cunningham. “We’ve all become close friends, and when we’re in sync, it’s something truly special.”
Looking Ahead
Swingbooty plans to take a break from performing during the holidays to work on new material and possibly record. “I’d love to do another concept video,” Lange says. “I think people miss the days of MTV, and every time we release one of these, we get an incredible response both locally and from fans overseas.”
As Swingbooty continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the band’s unmatched blend of talent and showmanship keeps them at the heart of East Tennessee’s music scene, with no signs of slowing down.