How ‘Boots On The Ground’ Became A Line Dance Sensation

When it comes to the Houston Rodeo, line dancing has become just as much of a spectacle as bull riding. Continue reading to learn about one of the newest line dances that is taking the internet by storm.

The Electric Slide. The Cha Cha Slide. The Wobble. The Cupid Shuffle. The Tamia Shuffle. All of these dances have become Black staples over the years. It’s very common to see them done at weddings, parties, family reunions, etc. As much as everyone loves a good old reliable, the search for something new is never-ending. It seems like next great line dance has arrived in the form of “Boots on the Ground.”

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“Boots on the Ground” has gone viral since people have caught wind of it, more than likely through TikTok. The dance involves strong rhythmic footwork, emphasizing stomping, stepping and a lot of energy. The dace perfectly reflects the phrase’s original meaning of being “in the field” or “on the ground.” Although steps might vary depending on the region or music style it’s being performed to, engagement with the floor is always key, hence the name.

Source: lariyah_msshirley

The dance was created by Tre Little, a member of the dance group Dem Kuntry Folks. The dance accompanies the song “Boots on the Ground” by 803Fresh. Douglas Furtick (aka 803Fresh) was born in Augusta, Georgia on February 19th, 1990. After being persuaded by his mother, Douglas started singing publicly at the Union Hill Baptist Church at 8 years old.

After the passing of his father when he was 14, he joined The Cedar Brach Association Youth Choir, touring most of the east coast. He was then discovered by Snake Eyes Music Group, a group of individuals with a likeminded vision. From there, he began to conquer the Southern Soul genre. Working with names like King George, Charmeka Joquelle and Frank Johnson, 803Fresh has stamped his way across the genre, particularly naming his rendition of the genre “Carolina Soul.”

803Fresh’s infectious song and Tre Little’s choreography have blown up in a way that neither probably imagined. The song, which was released on YouTube two months ago, already has a staggering 6.8 million views. When you add how many people have posted themselves doing the dance (or at least attempting to), it’s easy to see why the movement is so impactful. People have even used the dance to take their minds off of the unhinged political news cycle. It’s safe to say that ‘Boots on the Ground’ will be around for a long time. Check out the song, tutorials on how to do the dance and people’s reactions to it below!

1. Boots On The Ground