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James Titus Godbolt (October 2, 1927 – May 16, 2008), known professionally as Jimmy Slyde and also as the "King of Slides", was an American tap dancer known for his innovative tap style mixed with jazz.
May 17, 2008 · Jimmy Slyde, one of the last great tap dancers of the big-band era, whose smooth moves carried him from swing and bebop to Broadway and the movies, died early on Friday at his home in...
- Claudia La Rocco
Jul 31, 2018 · Cotton Club Gala 1977 TV Netherlands.Jimmy Slyde dances to "Here's That Rainy Day"
- 3 min
- 36.3K
- Tap Dancing on Record
Learn about Jimmy Slyde, a tap dancer who became famous for his sliding technique and his improvisational style. Read about his life, career, and legacy at Jacob's Pillow Dance Interactive.
Dr. James T. Godbolt, Jr., a.k.a. Jimmy Slyde, whose musicality and elegance thrilled audiences from Japan to Europe, South America and elsewhere, and whose generosity and wisdom inspired generations of dancers over a career spanning six decades, died peacefully at his home in Hanson, Massachusetts on Friday, May 16, 2008.
There is no mistaking Jimmy Slyde's signature move—that cool, smooth, seemingly effortless slide across the floor from which he took his name. Over an impressive career spanning more than six decades, legendary tap dancer Slyde, also known as the "King of Slides," became synonymous with the style of dance known as rhythm tap.
Godbolt took the stage name "Jimmy Slyde." As their reputation grew, they received invitations to perform in the shows the big bands were developing and taking on the road. Godbolt worked with Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and other great bandleaders of the era.
