Shirley Ellis : The Nitty Gritty 1963 HD

More fun : one of Shirley's catchiest hits. Never a prolific recording artist, she retired from the music industry in 1968. Her songs however, still get used in TV commercials fifty years later.
Original video short here : • Best 60s Dancer Boy Ev... (Matthew Enderlin)

[@barronridge5613]

It's hard to watch anyone other than the guy in the middle.

[@kimyongsung79]

Yeah.. absolutely true..

[@clintmacarthur7895]

Right? He stole the show

[@jumpingship3001]

Scene stealing co star.

[@vixensilver180]

Ha! 100% feel that.

[@23715]

He's an English comedian by the name of Norman Wisdom.

[@bakerycat4869]

It's like he's alone on that stage

[@hibbahibba]

He is. 😊

[@hodaka1000]

They're all great especially the four on the right

[@Shroedinger73]

Idk 🤔 that girl is keeping up just fine and her heels are taller

[@ailsasublett9885]

And I can't look away

[@offgridnightmarenewhomeste3215]

He was the choreographer and jumped in when a dancer didn't show.

[@robgyanisu312]

Bobby Banas, the dancer in the foreground, died today (31 July 2024) at 90. R.I.P.

[@scottsound4711]

😞

[@AFMKI_]

😢

[@denisew3215]

@@robgyanisu312 I am sure he is teaching the Angel's some groovy steps.🙂

[@dansomman1896]

@@robgyanisu312 I hope this is not what he is remember for it took no talent what so ever for this I guess you call it dancing

[@MARIANSCATLIFFE]

@@robgyanisu312 rip Bob Banas loved u

[@jacksquat4140]

I find myself trying to watch the other dancers, but my eyes won't leave the guy in the front. He is simply exceptional.

[@ElectricCavegurl]

Classic. Bobby Banas choreographed that scene, but wasn't supposed to dance in it. One of the dancers fell ill and Bobby replaced him last minute. He shines. Anyone saying this wasn't dancing is just trolling and/ or knows nothing about '60s culture. He has quite the career.

[@yardleyj9391]

I love love love it. Is the first dancer Bobby Banas?

[@rootedsorrow]

@@yardleyj9391 He's the guy in the middle with the floppy hair going wild in an controlled way

[@pamelacaldwell6055]

Yes!!!! 💃🕺 ❤😁👍👌

[@bookgirlny8511]

I’m so glad there’s a name for that dancer! Love it!!!

[@chocolatcats]

Thank you Heidi

[@beaglybeagle]

I can't take my eyes off Bobby Banas and such style...such fired up dancing--this is becoming one of my favorite videos on You Tube....great to watch over and over again

[@jorj6720]

Это не танец, а обезъянье кривляние... Отстой(((((

[@ethelryan257]

Banas is brilliant.

[@andrewyoung2796]

His girl moves💚

[@CoolJerk-z5c]

@@jorj6720 ты болван

[@jorj6720]

@@CoolJerk-z5c Почему? Обоснуй, уважаемый!

[@LoveRick-hi5yd]

The guy in the middle is Bobby Banas, who died yesterday at the tender age of 90, according to his only son's instagram. He appeared in many movie musicals, and had the role of Joyboy in film West Side Story. He had more acting roles later in life. He was also a dance teacher to many aspiring dancers who went on to lucrative careers. He was & still is a legend in dance history. RIP Bobby, and Godspeed. Thank you for entertaining us for decades

[@adriennecouture2265]

His name is Bobby Banas. He danced as a Jet in "West Side Story", the lead chimney sweep in "Mary Poppins", he did the "Diamonds are a girl's Best Friend" dance with Marilyn Monroe...hard to name a Hollywood dance musical in the early 60s that Bobby wasn't in, and always hard to watch anyone else. Very talented guy.

[@trilbywilby7826]

Thank you for the background info. I've always wondered who he was and hoped his talent and obvious love of music and dance would find more outlets.

[@mcwane1360]

I was also thinking he was in White Christmas,, Bing Crosby Danny Kaye.. I may be wrong

[@shirleyperry3170]

Thank you for letting us know. So cool?😎😎😎😎😎🤗🤗

[@juliecrook4515]

But the lady dancing alongside him….wow💪she’s amazing too…you go girl.☺️

[@kathychinski6308]

She was a major dancer in west side story. I think Russ Tamnblyn’s girlfriend in the movie

[@JosieStev]

@@kathychinski6308 Oh wow, Amber is his daughter. Cool

[@THEFAITHFULPALADIN]

@@kathychinski6308 Yes, and the lead dancer here, Bobby Banas was also in West Side Story.

[@shirleyperry3170]

@@THEFAITHFULPALADIN , thank you for telling us these cool tidbits!

[@stuartcarroll7156]

I can't put my finger on it, but Bobby Banas' dancing is in a class of its own - he throws his whole self into it and it's a joy to watch.

[@williefess2685]

Can't take my eyes off of him.

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Yeah that's it. He's actually dancing, instead of just moving with music. He can feel it.

[@stevelacy137]

It’s the weed

[@stuartcarroll7156]

@@stevelacy137 Nobody on drugs could dance that well - the key to it is the precision and commitment, and that would require total sobriety.

[@JBrodo]

He is in a class of his own in this!

[@Deenastockton]

Some of these comments are rude. The guy in the middle is Bobby Banas, famous actor and professional dancer. He was in Westside Story. He was respected throughout Hollywood. He even did a number with Marilyn Monroe when she performed the famous song. Diamonds are a girl's best friend. He recently died. Show a little respect here for an awesome performer.

[@sobraine123]

Thanks for telling us know more about him

[@ArmyVeteran-]

*The young man up front & center is Professional Dancer Robert Banas. He is still alive & doing well at 87. Robert choreographed this song. He was born in New York City Sept 22.* Edited update: since I last updated information on Mr Banas 5 months ago he is now 88 & kicking. "literally" with them hyper-lego's..lol 🕺🤸

[@caroljames7381]

Brillant dancing from Banas super 👌 😍 love it !!!

[@yesterdaysnews1147]

He’s 🧨

[@elizabethmeyer7709]

Wow 🥺

[@jonilougy6608]

Ok, you're just awesome ☺

[@JonnyQ358]

Thank you for the update on the great Bobby B..My sister told me he was one of the dancers in "West Side Story" ?

[@rcaive0875]

The male dancer in front...that's me in the elevator when I leave the office on Fridays.

[@michaelpondo6324]

M

[@DeLuxTv777]

Right! Ahahaha!

[@timeforthinkers7418]

rcaive08, good one! 😁👍

[@parentevan]

That's Bobby Banas! Look him up! A total legend.

[@ronmarshall6858]

Me Too!

[@claudettedalton3281]

robert banas cool dancer he was in west side story love this clip he taught john travolta moves for saturday night fever movie

[@terencehernandez9646]

Which one is Robert Banda?

[@marcrichard7251]

@@terencehernandez9646 He’s the one up front…most of the time

[@MrEss-ld3sw]

Deney Terrio taught Travolta for Saturday Night Fever

[@pinkelephant4958]

I think I’ve watched this video over 100 times by now. Bobby Banas was just amazing.

[@kjjmac]

Me too! 😊

[@wizardoffrobozz]

me too

[@jenniferwelsh4017]

Same!

[@dansomman1896]

@@pinkelephant4958 OMG what kinda talent did it take to do that that ish was terrible...

[@lisarico8116]

The guy in the front Robert "Bobby" Banas (born September 22, 1933) is an American dancer and actor who worked in movies such as West Side Story (1961), Always (1989) and Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986). A dance he choreographed for the Shirley Ellis song "The Nitty Gritty" and performed (with five other dancers) on The Judy Garland Show in 1964, drew him renewed attention on KZbin in the 2010s, where copies of it had been viewed more than 25 million times by mid-2023.[1][2] I love this and have watched it over 20 times.

[@adehmark]

Thank you for that. 2:13

[@medusabrown420]

I knew he was the choreographer!!

[@vanwindmillll]

@@lisarico8116 When I first discovered the video many years ago, I also found an interview with him. His dance is exhilarating and amazing. Thanks for the news of his passing. Wonderful talent.

[@christinepetersen1103]

I watch this video of Bobby Banas all the time because his energy makes me feel happy.

[@randiewasserman8831]

Me too!!’👍😍🥰

[@lynnh4923]

Me three!! (◕ᴗ◕✿)

[@roseamber7342]

I watched this several times, it doesn’t get old. I think Bobby Banas is one of the greats in dancers, along with Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire.

[@obrheadcyclinggnome]

And Nicholas brothers

[@stephenboath924]

I just had to watch this clip after hearing of the sad news that Bobby Banas had passed away. Brilliant dancer. R.I.P

[@dennisleporte2327]

Just keep in mind Bobby Bana's partner kept right up with him....in heels lol

[@fayskelley]

As a retired figure skating coach to me she looks stiff ... Bobby Banas is D’A Bomb!

[@michellelekas211]

The dance doesn’t allow the females to bend their knees at all, hardly. She is really good.

[@vivianmonaghan9784]

Isnt that the girl that played Graziella in West Side Story?

[@beagiver6864]

They are all fabulous and rocking it out of the ball park!

[@seamusmaye1333]

For the most part you could tell it was something, I won’t new, but with the movements of the legs it seems something unlike other 60s dance crazes. Idk as a man who can run and dance in heels even my thought was immediately thinking they would break an ankle

[@howdy9061]

i dont get these comments. I love the dance and the energy of the dancers. Especially the front dancers where one is called bobby banas appearently. How can anyone say this is bad dancers when im sitting here smiling for almost 2 minutes just because of the positivity that dancers put with this dance. Amazing!

[@lindyhawthorne2164]

I cant stop watching it.

[@carlfrye1566]

Watch American Bandstand and Sooooouuuul Train, they could all cut the rug!

[@wymellwilliams1543]

Oh so much energy

[@wymellwilliams1543]

If I dance like that 2 minutes I have to get oxygen

[@sl4983]

I love it!!!!

[@albertmilo2999]

The guy in the middle is a famous dancer and choreographer. His name is Robert "Bobby" Banas. He's quite famous. Read about him in this Wikipedia link. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Banas

[@mulemule]

This dude deserves his own Netflix documentary. Electrifying dancer. The stories he must have of that era and its stars.

[@xeniageller4280]

some people follow the steps, some people have the fire inside

[@pleasedontmakemelate]

Amen!!!

[@margaretcarter6237]

These 2 certainly do.!!! Love it!!

[@chstra45]

...and some are full of amphetamines.

[@homeyginomolly]

@@chstra45 😅😂🤣

[@fossehigh]

These folks must be a tad embarrassed watching these moves today . Not aged well 😁

[@AC-ih7jc]

RIP Bobby. Thank ypu for the slick moves. They brought a lot of joy.

[@TheMammalu]

Bobby Banas could not have imagined in 1963 that in 2020 his dancing would be helping people set aside Covid lockdown anxiety for at least a few minutes and remember what fun feels like. It’s hard to take your eyes off him. Every move is so loose yet so controlled. Masterful!

[@debbieseverson5130]

Plus our crazy soon-to-be X president.

[@spinz8]

Always wondered what his name was. Thank you for the input.

[@danyluk1]

a bit over the top... dude saving people from coronavirus disease 2019

[@danyluk1]

@@debbieseverson5130 Trump #1

[@fayskelley]

I agree. One of the best dancers I’ve ever watched. Hard to take ones eyes off him. Would love to see him ice dancing !

[@hughhaefner5486]

His energy flies through the screen all these years later. The jerky movement was incorporated into 60's dance from a dance called the jerk as I recall. He's still alive, is around 83 years old. Google him. Wow Bobby! P.S. He was already 30 years old in this film.

[@revrotunda3206]

I’m thinking The Jerk dancing along with the record by The Larks came out after, but not by far, this choreographic performance so this right here set the precedence.

[@jenniferwelsh4017]

RIP, Mr. Banas ❤ You brought us joy for sure with your bad ass dancing. I bet there's a helluvq dance party waiting for you up there. 😘

[@dan-ho1zz]

It’s 1 am and instead of sleeping I’m watching the nitty gritty on repeat

[@ejb7969]

12:27 am

[@beckydufour3929]

That was me last nite!😆

[@adrianeharlem4178]

Me too!

[@KyaraExMachina]

Go watch Stephan and Chanzie do the Nitty Gritty!

[@andrewmcneilis4957]

That’s the magic of the white powder

[@hebneh]

The guy who gets the most attention here, Bobby Banas, had a long career as a dancer and appeared in a number of movies. But this short TV clip - which he choreographed - from a forgotten episode of "The Judy Garland Show" made him the most famous he ever was, after it began appearing on KZbin from 2015. He's still alive, now 87 years old, and has gotten to enjoy his unexpected fame late in life. This dance was supposed to be exaggerated for comic effect, which is why he's being so vigorous and animated.

[@Meatcity-sf8fm]

But it he makes it authentic not exaggerated at all.

[@Mia-vi7hq]

It’s been on KZbin for even longer, look up “best 60s dancer boy”! It’s been uploaded since 2012, I remember when I first found it in 2013 and I still come back every now and then almost 10 years later to watch him dance 🥰 lol

[@beagiver6864]

Thank you so much for the backyard information. I was wondering if he js still with us!

[@loudenblogger]

I adore him. When I watch this, I feel like a screaming girl at a Beatles concert

[@julieyoutu]

I'm SO GLAD to read you! Thank you for this information. I was wondering about "the best dancing boy of the 60s! He's just soooooo INTENSE AND GREAT. I found nothing comical about it - I love it and take it seriously :D And cool song too! Good for him!

[@chaney1]

the rest of the dancers be saying"who the hell gave tim the red bull again"

[@sekenamcmurren2217]

Rip Robert Banas what an extraordinary dancer he was! age 90🕺🎶😔🙏🏼

[@heartyblack]

This is stunning. Can't find it anymore out in the world. Why 56 thumbs down makes no sense. Must be the Russians.

[@ebf1957]

Or someone who can't appreciate choreography.

[@SheBadd529]

IAM black in I luved the entire dance in the dude in front is iconic lmao 🤣 wat a show ‼️💯💕

[@janettewood9628]

That's Bobby Bannas. Famous Hollywood dancer. He was in West Side Story and many other dance movies and I believe he is still alive and living in New York.

[@Ravenwood93]

The man in the front middle is Robert Banas,he is now in his late 80s, made a few movie appearances, kissed marlyn monroe, my respects Bobby

[@urgonnaluvit]

Looks like hes having a fit

[@jazmaan]

@@urgonnaluvit He MAKES that video. It would have been boring without him. I'm sure it was no accident that they put him front and center. I wonder if there are other examples of his dancing from that era online anywhere?

[@pattihawks8514]

urgonnaluvit a good fit, though!

[@livelovenow8862]

Doing the nitty gritty is the key to long life lol!

[@TREVASLARK]

@@livelovenow8862 YEEEES !

[@nelysilva5833]

The male dancer in front is Bobby Banas, and he is the very best dancer.👏👏👏👍

[@victoriabiel5861]

That male dancer in front is an incredible dancer. His expressive moves and impeccable rhythm took this dance to another level. Although the other dancers did a fine job, he completely stole the show with his riveting interpretation. Simply superb.

[@TheConorsmithusa]

Well he choreographed it if you didn't know by now

[@YesPlutoisaplanet]

I watch this every time I need to get Into a good mood.

[@pattihawks8514]

It definitely is a mood! Love it!

[@antwanwilson7228]

@@pattihawks8514 I heard this song on the radio over the weekend and I can't get it out of my head 😆🎶

[@maggienjody]

Im watching this now for that exact reason.

[@annalavransdattar5935]

Me too.

[@edwardhigginbotham3646]

Is this group in any other videos. We're they a group or only for this video?

[@hammertime403]

If I ever have access to a time machine this will be the first place I'd go back to!! Who's going with me?✊😃🤘

[@evalynn383]

I was there.

[@michekids]

I'm there, but you better hurry because I am 66

[@F3V00]

Not me💀

[@michaeljonesdougherty.209]

Iam going wait for me .

[@RepentfollowJesus]

I'd go but you'd have to take care of me. I was born in 63 😁

[@conuregirl007]

This guy in the middle was a famous dancer from West Side Story. His name is Robert Banas. Excellent dancer! He's now 89 .

[@jeanbanks7301]

Thanks for the info. I always wondered who he was. 👍

[@marionpeebles3836]

He is also a well-known choreographer

[@javiermest5968]

Robert Banas también sale bailando en un vídeo de Bill Halley con el tema " Rip it Up "

[@PDXtransplant]

The guy in the front is the famous dancer/ choreographer Bobby Banas. He's 85 years old now. He was an incredible dancer!

[@charlescabral2746]

Que legal saber que é apenas talento porque tem posts maldosos dizendo que ele está drogado.

[@MissMichSan]

Interesting.thanks for the info

[@Maloveciri]

Why would anyone give a "thumbs down"? Even of you don't like the music or style of dance ... appreciate the talent that went into this.

[@psychokarloff]

Bob Banas!! The quintessential dancer of the 1960s! Unreal...

[@georgezaharoff]

RIP Bobby Banas! You make quite the mark on all of us!

[@adancer3592]

He hit everything it's impossible to not watch him through the whole thing .

[@melb5244]

I think the guy in back on the right is a better dancer but man, Bobby's style just steals it.

[@stevemunoz3241]

Robert Banas the dance legend shows us how it is supposed to be done

[@luishumbertovega3900]

Rest In Peace, Mr Robert (Bobby) Banas (1933-2024), choreographer and main dancer of this 1-derful number, Thank You for sharing your artistry with us.

[@Carmela_Falco]

This is the greatest thing on the Internet.

[@jo-annebellamy5983]

point or apex, as a power or achievement.

[@thedolphin5428]

100% cringey. That's what I call very daggy dancing.

[@Planet_Shel]

Yaaaa !!!!

[@carolsalyers3581]

After reading the comments, I was intrigued enough to look up information on Bobby Banas! What an amazing career in dance/theater/choreography. I could barely take my eyes off of him in this video. This dance is excellent and I love the funky song (I actually remember it...). If you put these dancers in modern clothing and hairstyles, some of the dance would stand the test of time, IMHO.

[@divacdiva01]

Bobby Banas is fantastic. Danced in so many movies, including west side story.

[@martinjenkins8270]

This type of dancing never fails to make me smile 😀

[@thom6746]

The cameraman keeps zeroing in on the front dancer because with his herky-jerky movements, he not only nails the dance, he elevates it to the same level as Fred Astaire's Continental, John Travolta's You Should Be Dancing, and Michael Jackson's Moonwalk. I think I've watched this 20 times already. It's exciting, and makes me grin ear to ear.

[@randallerickson175]

The front male dancer is more animated for sure, but he doesn't have the extension with his moves like some of the other men. He is fun to watch though.

[@darrelontv]

@@randallerickson175 he's the choreographer who invented the dance for this song. 8 million views in the first seven years out, and influenced 60s dancing because of this one program. Bobby Banas, a famous Hollywood choreographer. He owned the 60s.

[@dyathink]

i have watched this soooo many times. I love how even his hair dances. He is so cutting edge it's like he's pulling his generation into the next big thing. Hard to describe but his creative expression in this dance could be called seminal, tearing apart the cultural fabric of the 50's (where the other dancers still are) and bringing it single handedly into the 60's and everything that came after. I feel like i am watching history being made here, that singular moment in time that changes everything.

[@kayjohnson4626]

Also Jamie how many of your songs have given people enough energy to get up and dance like this during their time like they said this guy's so good even his hair dances to the music

[@sandylouinaz643]

Looks like Fred Astaire cutting loose!

[@jenniferreed8227]

Me too! I can't keep my eyes off him!

[@Posark]

The performance may have been aimed at a middle-aged audience, judging by the hosts. That may be why the other dancers were more sedate by comparison i.e. “50’s”. However, the lead dancer also did the choreography, so he was probably getting into his own element 🕺🏻 ETA: The TV hosts appear on another clip but not this one

[@sandylouinaz643]

I shared it on Discord with friends, it brings me great joy, showing the beauty there is in life at times!

[@lmarti204]

Bobby Banas has got this down pat. You think he's just having fun but if you do the count and break it down - he's flawless!!

[@TREVASLARK]

Really ? What does that mean - "do the count and break it down ?"

[@marklentine8793]

Bobby Banas, you will live forever. May your soul Rest In Peace…

[@BlueSkyTune]

Brilliant Bobby Banas in the front. He's the reason the audience is cheering. He shows the difference between learning the steps and blowing it out of the water.

[@DeLuxTv777]

You got that right! He's jamming!!

[@catherinem421]

He choreographed it so he knows how it should be done.

[@amiramark]

and his lady partner slept thru rehersal.

[@staceytroffer8287]

This was choreographed by Bobby Banas , and it reminds me very much of the jive IN THAT specifically you have to stay on your toes. I watched the video, Bobby in particular, and he is literally on his toes and balls of his feet for most of the dance….. THAT IS VERY DIFFICULT! The jive is one of the hardest dances to maintain proper form just for that reason. Your legs must be conditioned for it, and clearly Bobby’s were, because he made it look effortless.

[@EvinMA]

Love to know who the girl dancing next to him is. She kept up with all his moves and watched him intensely.

[@SC-uq2jf]

As an African American college educated female, who grew up with music like this , we all danced, from the eldest to the youngest at gatherings; I can say UNEQUIVOCALLY, the male dancer, I think his name is Bobby Banas, KILLED IT. I can watch him dance all day, lol.

[@harrycallahan3221]

As a white British, university educated male, who also grew up on music like this, I unequivocally agree with you on Banas killing it. Also, as a white British, university educated male, I'd have to say that Ellis did a pretty damn good job too.

[@tedfebo1741]

As a Latin man, I can say, unequivocally, the song is cool, but the dancing has me laughing my freaking ass off. That's the worst dancing I've ever seen in my life, specially Bobby boy😂😂😂😂😂

[@Pamledger478]

Nicolas Brothers .. Greatest dancers ever .. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnO0gJmvh5xorLs

[@courtneykirk478]

I disagree.

[@orzjr]

While people dance, Bobby simply rocks...RIP

[@andreamachado5591]

I´m surprised with the negative comments, I think the dancing is very creative and cool, I liked this, 😃 if someone dance like this in a dancing place would be a popular guy immediatelly.

[@watchman1178]

I agree with you. It was unconventional, but it took a lot of talent to dance like that.

[@melissak8892]

They have completely missed the point. This is amazing.

[@revrotunda3206]

@@watchman1178 Right, and the ones who are critical wouldn’t do a better job. Bobby Banas is the middle dancer who was also the choreographer setting the precidence for future dance.

[@craigbullock629]

I get why everyone is focused on the dancing, but don't forget it's a great damn song!

[@DeLuxTv777]

It goes without saying!

[@catherinem421]

For Real!! 💜

[@AndrewStuartBrown]

One of my favorites from the first time I heard it. I remember the follow-up too, with the lyrics. "... 2, 4, 9, the (something) drank wine, the monkey chewed tobacco on the street car line, the line broke, the monkey got choked and they all went to Heaven in a little row boat. Clap clap, Clap clap" It was a rope skipping song from the streets somewhere. It had soul,

[@MrMelgibstein]

The song is awesome .I am going to try to find a digital stereo copy.Those trumpets sound absolutely Great.

[@auriusblancheman9623]

@@AndrewStuartBrown 3..6.9.. the goose drank wine..

[@LionelBrunet]

Bobby Bañas is so good on this video. He must be this year 87 years old and we still thank you for this performance .

[@headlessspaceman5681]

He was the choreographer and at the last minute the lead guy was a no show so Bobby just ran out and LIT IT UP.

[@cynthialuvlight2480]

I can't get out of here. If you can watch this video without hitting the replay button, you've got way more control than I do, lol. I'm on at least round 10... and counting. Then had to read all the awesome comments everybody left. Thanks for posting this video, didn't just make my day, it made my life whole. And, to Bobby, you just go with your bad self, you rocked my world this morning.

[@zv9773]

Он сделал мой день. Моя жизнь теперь не будет прежней )

[@cynthialuvlight2480]

Карл Маркс, 👍...I think.

[@joannepluta5238]

Wow! Bobby is amazing! I could watch him dance all day! What a talent!❤️🌹 Let' s revive this dance.

[@DeLuxTv777]

I would like to see someone on DWTS or World of dance compete with this!!!

[@mycatalby630]

I could watch this everyday. They are all good dancers but Bobby Banas is amazing. ❤️💜🥰

[@disturbinglypragmatic]

RIP Bobby Banas!! Such a fabulous dancer.

[@leahlind379]

I've learned that the man in the fronts name is Bobby Banas and he appeared in many musicals over the years. Amazing!

[@spirittchaser7043]

he dances beautifully!)

[@rhondacorbett728]

He stole the show ‼️

[@Ronin4614]

Leah Lind ~~~ You are spot on about Bobby Banas, with WestSide Story and Bednobs and Broomsticks to his credit. Bobby’s brunette dance partner is Gina Trikonis, with Gus Trikonis in the back row on screen right, both appearing in West Side Story ( Grazella and Indio respectively). Bobby is in his mid 80s today, and growing the best roses you’ll ever see in California. Good chatting with you, Leah. This is an addicting little dance number.

[@thomaskey.1343]

Man , what an.incredible dancer. Yes, he steals the show & should . He dances to the beat every second of the song. He is right on target with every move, every step !!! Makes we want to.get movin & Groovin !!!! .'THANK YOU BOBBY. !!!

[@eugeniasyro7315]

He is ONE HELL of a great dancer! Takes my breath away 57 years later.

[@johnanderson8624]

he's THE Nitty Gritty Nureyev!

[@alvilla701]

And that is how i actually dance, but normally, nobody appreciates my moves

[@peterp4876]

I LOVE this video! I have watched it over and over again. So cool! All the dancers are fantastic. Wow! This would be so cool to see a wedding party do this to entertain their guests, wouldn't it?

[@evitasdad]

watching this is addictive.

[@tommysfather]

The guy in front is Bobby Banas and this dude dances with his whole body including his hair. He definitely is fun to watch.

[@2Hearts3]

Yes... the other dancers are nice, quite good, capable. But look at Bobby-- he's committed to it, feels the spirit of the song right through his fingertips. He's not facing the audience with a smile on his face as some of the other dancers are, as if on a beauty pageant stage; no, he's exemplifying the nitty gritty🕺Go, Bobby 🏆👏🥇

[@altonwilliams7117]

That guy up front beat my hour workout in the gym in 2 minutes!😂

[@tripaffleck]

Bobby Banas. He was made of music.

[@gewgulkansuhckitt9086]

I'm sure they're all professional and highly talented dancers, but that one guy (Bobby Banas?) makes it look like the others are just wannabes.

[@Ronin4614]

Gewgulkan Suhckitt ~~~ You are right, that is Bobby Banas.

[@pauladouglas9891]

Bobby put his all into this dance, you don't even notice the other dancers

[@erepsekahs]

Absolute genius dancer.

[@reinandomolina650]

Love this video, the couple in the front are great she reminds me of a doll and he's a ball of energy!😊

[@jobob47]

the kid in front is just mesmerizing. cant get enough.

[@roland4859]

kid in front is Bobby Banas!! He's awesome!

[@adamlehr8820]

Bobby Banas, you are sensational! The man in front, such a great song to boot!

[@adamlehr8820]

I am mesmerized as well.

[@zacharyconnors7945]

I totally agree! Did you know of any other videos on here that he's in?

[@endoflevelboss]

@@adamlehr8820 Propose

[@jayberry2716]

Can't stop watchin,' Bobbys got it goin' on !

[@WFTL14]

I did a little research and discover this is from a 1964 Judy Garland TV show. The shows dancers are led by Bobby Banas, he choreographed it. On Sept 23, 2019 Bobby will be 86 years old! Happy Birthday Bobby! I’m not usually impressed by dancers, the variety shows back then had them all the time but this one just knocks me out, no doubt due to Shirly Ellis’ great tune!

[@phyllisgreenberg5]

86? Geeeeez....I danced with Bobby..

[@Oscar3]

"Dance like nobody is watching." Bobby Banas

[@local_knyediter7129]

I need this on a t-shirt

[@Meatcity-sf8fm]

I love this guy man can he do the jerk. When I was on the dance floor in the sixties that's how I imagined I danced. But he's amazing to watch .

[@darrelontv]

The guy in the middle outshining everyone created the dance you see here. That's why he does it the best out if all of them; he made these moves. He's a well-known Hollywood choreographer named Bobby Banas. This dance was watched like crazy by over 8 million people in the first seven years because of him. He influenced 60s dance big time, injecting energy that we associate with that period (notice the couple on the left & how tame they are. That's how people "went wild" on the dance floor before this energy that you see on this recording inspired people to really let loose). He still blows people away now. Seriously, try to imitate his moves! Cr-a-zy! And the woman singing this? Check out her interview with Dick Clark. She speaks so gentle and softly, but put her on stage and she sings with power. The contrast is mindblowing. This song, if you can keep the original singing, would be great to make into an extended remix (but keep it period appropriate, no dub step or techno, just longer and more instrumental to stretch it out), don't you think?

[@dennisleporte2327]

Hope he got to dance with Edie Sedgwick lol

[@brendaannedufaur6244]

Loved your knowledgeable comment darrelontv. Thank u. But hell no dont remix the song. It is sheer perfection as it is.

[@darrelontv]

@FIVE D and you can do better? C'mon. Put your money where your mouth is. Let's see. :)

[@darrelontv]

@FIVE D this isn't the original video. The person who edited this version did it to play the whole song. The actual broadcast only did an abbreviated version. Look carefully; it runs forward, then runs reversed, then runs forward for a bit, all to allow the full play of the song. You thought it was off sync for the wrong reasons but to be fair I almost made the same mistake. Also, he's the choreographapher, so the other dancers couldn't show him up. He's right on point. Notice they follow his lead and they don't do have as well (and we see the inspiration for Elaine's dancing on Seinfeld... look at the backup dancer on the right, OMG too funny). In the actual clip at the end he almost fucks up the ending and is apologizing to Mr. Banas. That gets cut out in this edit. So know that this clip has been tampered with in that regard. But no, he shines. The male on the left is weak, the male on the right is dancing like an old guy trying to catch up to the youngest, those weird hand gestures in the beginning! Yikes! Look for the Judy Garland Show - Nitty Gritty to see the original. Much shorter and they even dubbed a laugh track because it was supposed to be a parody of young people and their dance fads, although they also hoped it would catch on. The dance was too tricky for the masses.

[@darrelontv]

@FIVE D or found better dancers. Oh well, can't remake the past. It is a cool song and he can sure dance.

[@sinbadsailor1963]

That's Bobby Banas in the middle. He created and choreographed the Nitty Gritty dance. The crappy regular choreographer for The Judy Garland Show (Peter Gennaro) was on vacation that week and so Banas used the opportunity to show them how it's done.

[@linda-jeanboyer7881]

Peter was a great choreographer....

[@sinbadsailor1963]

@@linda-jeanboyer7881 Umm... No, Gennaro was the worst. Check out Generro’s horrific choreography to Take Five. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKqWdIqnbcp1nKM

[@christinabissinger9550]

RIP Bobby, you legend. I am sad that I never got a chance to meet you. Dance on!

[@jonhillman871]

i can't stop watching this. this is one of the most entertaining things i've ever seen. my daughter overheard it and asked me what it was. she's hooked too. much respect to the northern soul movement for keeping the fire burning.

[@palcanon6888]

THIS is what's exceptional about him, he uses his entire body as a figure of expression!

[@jindandy7826]

Why is this so satisfying to watch? I have to keep coming back & smile.

[@johndevereux596]

Dancer in the middle is a legend. Google his story

[@moodyblues1273]

Bobby Banas

[@mulemule]

Better yet (since he IS a legend in his industry), change "Dancer in the middle" to "Bobby Banas." 🙄

[@timeforthinkers7418]

Seems like no matter how many times I watch this video my eyes always revert to Bob Banas. Even when I am trying to watch the other dancers my eyes rove back to him. The other dancers are seemingly doing the same steps but he executes them in a way that is different & riveting. It is very hard to describe with words. The control he has just blows me away. Seems to me the person coming closest to Bobby 's execution of the choreography is the male dancer over Bobby's left shoulder or, from our perspective, to Bobby's right. I just do not get tired of watching this video. From some of the comments here some folks just don't "get it"!

[@trishexploring1508]

I have tried to watch the other dancer's too but I can't! Lol ya keep watching Bobby!

[@tracyarmstrong2953]

I’ve watched the others. The blond guy on the left is just doing the steps. A bit stiff and always with that pasted on smile. He was just doing his job. The guy on the right was giving it his all. Much more fluid than the blond and really put feeling into it, but you feel like you’re watching him perform a complicated choreography. (Which he was - but very well indeed). Bobby in the center doesn’t look like he’s performing. He doesn’t know the audience is there. He’s just moving to the music with utter emotion and abandon. That’s what makes it so special. The others are all performing for the audience. He’s just.... dancing! 🙂

[@BryanB0308]

Bobby is ALL IN !!! There is doubt he created the dance, and is going to do it to the MAX. Thanks, Bobby

[@SuzysRedStripes]

For me, it's him and the platinum blonde girl

[@jburma]

Robert Banas is the one out front - killin' it.

[@medusabrown420]

He was outstanding!!

[@williamhonnen2466]

Robert "Bobby" Banas is the dancer in front, he's 89 y/o now. He also choreographed this.

[@Ronin4614]

That is Gena Trikonis dancing upfront with Bobby. At screen right in the rear is Gus Trikonis. Bobby, Gena, and Gus are all veterans and have West Side Story, to name just one, in their CVs. This dance company was run by Peter Gennaro and are the Peter Gennaro Dancers, under contract to Judy Garland. Peter was away in NYC when this episode of the Judy Garland show came up. With Peter away, it fell to the very capable Bobby Banas to choreograph this number. The original number was shorter, run time of about 1:33, with Gus seen skipping off some at the end of the number. This video is edited to run in reverse to add some additional time. If you watch the blond dancer (I can't remember her name) at screen left, you can see the cut where the edit is made. Great dance number.

[@alanam9103]

Jim Perry tri

[@peterkent5153]

Gus is doing a really good job there.

[@hollyb6885]

Wow. Great info. Thx!!

[@barb-jm7990]

I think Gus is actually the better dancer, but Bobby is fun to watch. Bobby reminds me of the crazy kid at the school prom who lets loose. lol

[@olivervillanueva5781]

I can't stop watching this video damn I envy his dances moves. Priceless

[@rhondacorbett728]

Wish I could dance like that one more time!

[@trasiano]

Me too!

[@martabehr9976]

Me too..here i go again

[@risahall554]

If Robert Banas doesn't make you want to join in, you are dead. I am seriously addicted to this. It makes my day every morning. x

[@rootedsorrow]

Ditto!

[@joanhuber3894]

@@rootedsorrow Me too! Can't be too "down" once this video plays. Did anyone notice the girls were doing all those great moves in heels!!?? On live TV yet. That's talent, for sure.

[@GameOver-ei8ui]

Thats funny because I almost want to start learning the dance myself. lol

[@THEFAITHFULPALADIN]

The lead dancer is the Famous Bobby Banas, choreographer and dancer to numerous Broadway hits, musicals, songs and movies. The gentleman to his right if you're looking at the screen was also a renowned dancer who was dating a beautiful young aspiring actress named Goldi Hawn at the time.

[@susanwebster1734]

He was sensational!!

[@shadowpapito]

!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@trueorfalse6347]

Just can't keep my eyes off the guy in front. He dances like he means business.

[@dolphins3291]

I'm a young millennial and I swear I'm going to learn every step of this routine one day 🥺😆🙏🏾💃🏾🎊 (Retro-fashionista & dance enthusiast here, from Jamaica ☺💖)

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Please do. Note how Bobby dances better than the others, and what makes it better. He makes the audience feel, through his dance.

[@dolphins3291]

@@hxhdfjifzirstc894 Will do! 🙏🏾☺

[@Debutantealways]

He’s just too hot!! Totally off the chain! What a guy!

[@NudePostingConspiracyTheories]

Debutantealways yeah. He just gives me thrills. He’s like a shot in the arm. He’s not dancing- the dance is coming THROUGH him. He IS the dance. I’ll have what he’s having

[@NudePostingConspiracyTheories]

Debutantealways And, mate- thanks for that saying: “Off the chain”. I have never heard of that. (I’m in Australia). It’s grouse! Love it. I am gonna use THAT one