Learn another great AUTHENTIC SOLO JAZZ routine!!
 

The Tranky Doo is a celebrated jazz dance choreography with deep roots in swing culture. According to one source, it was choreographed by the legendary Frankie Manning and “named in tribute to the chorus girl who inspired it.”

Originally performed to the tune of Tuxedo Junction, the Tranky Doo has since been danced to various swing jazz songs in modern times. Today, it is most commonly associated with Ella Fitzgerald’s Dipsy Doodle due to its appearance in the documentary The Spirit Moves. However, the film originally had no sound; Dipsy Doodle was later added to accompany the choreography in the documentary.

Interestingly, while Dipsy Doodle is a 12-bar blues song, the Tranky Doo is choreographed to a 32-bar swing structure, meaning the song and the dance do not perfectly align musically. Despite this mismatch, the pairing remains iconic in swing culture.

Much like the Shim Sham, the Tranky Doo was a staple among Lindy hoppers, showcasing the vibrant creativity and improvisation that defines jazz dance traditions.