Who was Gregory Hines?

Gregory Hines did it all.  Actor, choreographer, singer, comedian, and dancer!  Gregory Hines was a tap dancer, who grew up dancing with his brother.  His career took off and he received several awards and nominations for his artistic talents.

Those who were lucky enough to watch Hines tap dance in concert, were in awe of the one man show.  He would tap dance on an amplified board, creating beats like a drummer in the band.  The other musicians would play call and response to his tap shoes.  At one point in the show, Hines would ask the audience, "Did you bring your tap shoes tonight?"  And the audience would wildly start clicking their tap shoes.  Everyone who brought their tap shoes was invited up on stage with Hines.  He would then pick out random people in the crowd and say, "Express yourself!"  The dancer would get a chance to dance via improvisation on stage.  It was a sight to see, and one that made the large auditorium feel small and connected.  

While he died of liver cancer at the young age of 57,  his legend will live on.  Here are a few videos for your enjoyment.  There are so many more if you like what you see.  Simply search for Gregory Hines on You Tube. 

Hines dancing with Steve Martin: 

Dancing in the film, White Nights:

Another great video of him dancing in the early 80s: