Write An Essay On Contemporary Tap Legend

The two individuals selected for this paper seemingly go hand in hand even though I had no prior knowledge of their backgrounds when I chose them. Although it can be said that all of the old tap legends served as leaders in the industry for the future generations, this particular legend was a pioneer for African-Americans in show business and paved the way for my chosen contemporary tap legend to succeed. Prince Spencer was born in Jenkinsville, South Carolina on October 3, 1917. At seven years old Prince was inspired by King Rastus Brown who was a hoofer and vaudeville performer during Prince’s childhood. From very early on Prince performed on street corners for nickels and by the time he was graduating high school he performed during the commercial breaks on the 1930’s radio talent show called The Major Bowes Amateur Hour. After a short period of time Prince was fired because he was too familiar with the white women in the show. Following this abrupt end to his employment Prince partnered up with his good friend, Henry Coleman and integrated with the Latin communities to perform and tour. Prince and Coleman were both light skinned and had curly …show more content…
One contemporary master in particular that has benefitted from Prince before her is Chloe Arnold. Arnold grew up in Washington, D.C. and trained with the DC Rhythm Ensemble as well as Taps & Company under the direction of Toni Lombre. At only ten years of age she was a part of Savion Glover’s DC crew for three years and in high school started working with Debbie Allen and has continued to partner with her ever since. She has been greatly influenced by the styles of the Nicholas Brothers, Jimmy Slyde, Gregory Hines and Jason Samuels Smith and in contrast with Prince’s style, which keeps a fairly constant speed with different fast rhythm patterns, Arnold has more pauses and plays more with the music of