The Most Famous Black Tap Dancer, Ranked

Choose the black tap dancer you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 4, 2024 07:02
The world of tap dance has been vividly shaped and enriched by numerous gifted artists, many of whom have brought exceptional skill and passion to the stage. Focusing on the contributions of black tap dancers, it is interesting to consider how each artist has influenced the genre and inspired audiences. By looking at their most famous figures, we gain insight into a part of dance history that combines rhythm, cultural expression, and profound talent. Ranking these influential black tap dancers not only celebrates their achievements but also educates others about their important contributions to the arts. This process of voting and ranking helps to highlight those who may not be as well-known alongside legendary figures. It creates an interactive and engaging way for fans and newcomers alike to learn about key performers and their groundbreaking work.

Who Is the Most Famous Black Tap Dancer?

  1. 1
    61
    votes
    Considered one of the greatest tap dancers of all time, Hines won a Tony Award for his performance in "Jelly's Last Jam" and appeared in numerous films, including "White Nights" and "Tap."
  2. 2
    29
    votes
    Known for his unique style of "hitting" the floor, Glover has won numerous awards for his work, including a Tony Award for his choreography in "Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk."
    Savion Glover in other rankings
  3. 3
    28
    votes
    Bill "Bojangles" Robinson
    Carl Van Vechten · Public domain
    A pioneer of tap dance, Robinson was one of the first African American performers to achieve national recognition. He appeared in numerous films during the 1930s and 1940s, including "The Little Colonel" and "Stormy Weather."
  4. 4
    18
    votes
    Sammy Davis Jr.
    Allan warren · CC BY-SA 3.0
    Although primarily known as a singer and actor, Davis was also an accomplished tap dancer who performed with some of the biggest names in the business, including Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.
    Sammy Davis Jr. in other rankings
  5. 5
    17
    votes
    One of the few black women to achieve success as a tap dancer during the 1930s and 1940s, LeGon appeared in numerous films and toured with some of the biggest bands of the era.
  6. 6
    11
    votes
    An influential tap dancer and choreographer, Coles worked with some of the biggest names in the business, including Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway. He also appeared in numerous films and television shows.
  7. 7
    9
    votes
    A pioneer of "rhythm tap," Bubbles developed a style that emphasized the use of syncopated rhythms and improvisation. He appeared in numerous films and stage productions during the 1930s and 1940s.
  8. 8
    10
    votes
    LaVaughn Robinson
    Animeyes66 · CC BY-SA 3.0
    One of the few black women to achieve success as a tap dancer during the 1950s and 1960s, Robinson appeared in numerous films and stage productions. She also worked as a choreographer and dance teacher.
  9. 9
    9
    votes
    An influential tap dancer and choreographer, Briggs worked with some of the biggest names in the business, including Duke Ellington and Count Basie. He also appeared in numerous films and stage productions.
  10. 10
    7
    votes
    A tap dancing duo consisting of Fayard and Harold Nicholas, the Nicholas Brothers were known for their acrobatic style and precision footwork. They appeared in numerous films during the 1930s and 1940s, including "Stormy Weather" and "The Pirate."

Missing your favorite black tap dancer?

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Ranking factors for famous black tap dancer

  1. Contributions to the art form
    This includes the dancer's impact on tap dancing and the creation of new techniques that are still used today.
  2. Recognition received
    This includes accolades such as awards, critical acclaim, and participation in notable productions.
  3. Cultural impact
    This includes the dancer's influence on society and how they have helped push through barriers to break down stereotypes.
  4. Innovation
    This includes how the tap dancer has developed and pushed boundaries in the art form through their creativity and unique style.
  5. Longevity
    This includes the length of the dancer's career and their continued contributions to the world of tap dancing.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous black tap dancer. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or dancer is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3359 views
  • 184 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each dancer once every 24 hours. The rank of each dancer is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous black tap dancer

Tap dancing is a form of dance that involves creating rhythmical sounds by striking the floor with the feet. It is a highly energetic and entertaining dance style that has been around for over a century. Over the years, many talented dancers have emerged in the tap dance scene, but some have stood out more than others. One group that has made a significant impact is black tap dancers. They have been pioneers in the development of the art form and have contributed immensely to its popularity. In this article, we will explore the most famous black tap dancers and their contributions to the world of tap dancing.

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