Line Dance with Maddy B

Interviewing Maddy B 

For more than 35 years, the rhythmic beats of line dancing have been the soundtrack to a journey of passion, resilience, and community for one remarkable woman. A leader in the art of movement, she has not only mastered the craft but has also built a legacy of teaching, collaboration, and empowerment. In this exclusive interview, she shares her story—one of dedication, branding, and the power of dance in bringing people together.

Stepping Into the Spotlight

It all started with classic favorites like the Electric Slide and the Casper Slide. Her passion for line dancing quickly evolved into something greater—an opportunity to teach, inspire, and lead. Having danced alongside notable figures such as Charlie Green, she has carried her expertise to venues across the U.S., leaving her imprint on the community one step at a time.

“I started teaching at the University of Chicago,” she recalls. “From there, it grew into something much bigger than I ever expected. What started as a simple love for dance transformed into a mission to empower and uplift. Now, I make it a point to create a welcoming space where anyone can learn and feel the joy of dance. My goal is to make sure every person, no matter their background or skill level, can feel confident and have fun while learning.”

Building a Brand and a Movement

More than just a dancer, she has embraced the power of branding to foster unity among her students. Thanks to an idea sparked by her daughter, branded T-shirts have become a staple of her classes, giving dancers a sense of identity and belonging. The shirts not only serve as a symbol of pride but also create a visual representation of the community she has cultivated.

“Branding is about more than just a logo,” she explains. “It’s about building a community where people feel connected and proud to be part of something bigger. When my students wear our T-shirts, they aren’t just dancers—they’re family. It gives them a sense of belonging and commitment to the craft.”

From Fear to Center Stage

One defining moment in her journey was embracing the viral dance ‘Pretty Girls Walk Like This’ by Nikki Smooth. Initially hesitant, she found the courage to perform it in front of large audiences, reinforcing the idea that growth comes from stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.

“That dance brought so much energy to my classes,” she says. “It reminded me that fear should never hold us back. I was nervous at first, but once I stepped on stage and felt the crowd’s energy, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be. Overcoming that fear allowed me to inspire my students to push past their own insecurities and truly enjoy the moment.”

A National Presence

Her influence stretches far beyond her home base, reaching cities across the country—from New York to Detroit, Ohio to California, and Atlanta to Las Vegas, Indianapolis, and Minnesota. She doesn’t just teach a line dance class; she delivers a full-fledged Line Dance Xperience. Through her nationwide journey, she has brought her expertise to major events like GDI and the Expo for Today’s Black Woman, collaborating with diverse groups and introducing fresh dance styles to new communities. She has seen firsthand how dance bridges cultures, fosters connections, and uplifts spirits.

As the demand for her classes continues to grow, more people are discovering the immense joy and health benefits of line dancing.

“Everywhere she goes, people share stories of how dancing has transformed their lives—whether by boosting confidence, improving physical health, or providing a much-needed escape from stress. That’s the reason she does this.”

The Community, The Challenges, The Triumphs

No journey comes without its challenges. As she has grown in popularity, she has faced both admiration and criticism, particularly within the line dance and stepping communities. Despite occasional backlash—such as being asked to replace another instructor—she remains steadfast in her mission to create a space where black women support one another.

“There will always be obstacles,” she reflects. “But the key is to focus on the people who show up, who want to learn, and who want to be part of something positive. At the end of the day, my purpose is to teach and uplift. That’s what truly matters.”

Her financial success, particularly in Atlanta, is a testament to the power of persistence. Students not only pay for lessons but also express gratitude through tips, which she generously shares with those who contribute to the experience—DJs, barmaids, and fellow instructors. She believes in uplifting everyone who plays a role in the success of her classes.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone grow into a confident dancer because of the environment we’ve built together. The joy in their faces, the friendships formed, and the community we’ve built—that’s the real reward.”

A Celebration of Black History and Culture

Looking ahead, she is preparing for an upcoming Black History event, a celebration of culture, rhythm, and heritage. Participants will don African-themed attire, dancing to the beats of black artists who have shaped music history. The event aims to not only celebrate dance but also educate and honor the roots of the music and movements that have shaped the African American experience.

“This event is about honoring our roots,” she shares. “It’s about showing how dance connects us to our past while moving us forward. We will be celebrating the legacy of our ancestors while creating new traditions of our own. It’s not just about dancing—it’s about storytelling, connection, and pride.”

What’s Next?

With no signs of slowing down, she continues to expand her reach, bringing line dancing to new audiences and developing fresh choreography. As she finalizes her next set of classes and teaching locations, one thing remains certain—her legacy in the line dance community is only getting stronger.

“I’m here to teach, to inspire, and to make sure everyone who walks into my class leaves feeling better than when they came in,” she says with a smile. “Dancing isn’t just about movement—it’s about transformation. It’s about showing up for yourself and stepping into joy.”

And with that, she takes the next step—one dance move at a time.