March 10, 2009

Teenarama: The Amazing Dance Party



Here is a summary of this incredible story for those days. The Teenarama Story started in Washington DC at a time when the teen television dance shows, such as the American Bandstand, were shown in urban communities across the US. The Teenarana dance party was narrated by Martha Reeves. What is very special about this show is that it was precursor to the show Soul Train (as many people believe) it was part of the popular dance shows in 1950's and the 1960's. The first time the "Dance Party: The Teenarama Story made it broadcast premier on the Howard University's WHUT. The nation first Africa American was own by WHUT .

During those days the dance shows like American Bandstand were very popular on TV. But it was also a time full of social injustice in the US was very strong, so the African American dance show didn't have the same privileges as the other counterparts did. So their access was very limited.

But in 1963 - 1970 an African American teen TV program in Washington, DC was born via a radio show live. A big moment! "The Teenarama Dance Party". It became very popular and a big hit. The show was hosted by Bob King was and on WOOK-TV. After Bob King was done with hosting the show, there were other famous hosts.

At the show itself had the latest dance craze and had famous performers guests such as James Brown, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes and more.

What an amazing story considering the era at that time.

Dance Party: Teenarama Story
http://www.dancepartytheteenaramastory.com/index.html

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