Overview
Gregory Hines (February 14, 1946 – August 9, 2003) was an American singer, dancer and actor. Born in New York City, he became one of the most visible proponents of rhythm tap during the late 20th century, bringing the form to Broadway, film and television audiences.
Early life and career beginnings
Hines began performing as a child with his brother, developing a natural sense of timing and improvisation that would define his style. He worked steadily in nightclubs and on stage before breaking through in musical revues that brought tap back into popular theater. His training emphasized musicality and spontaneity over rigid choreography.
Stage, film and television
Hines had a wide-ranging career on Broadway and in movies and television. He appeared in stage revues and plays, and moved into major films where his dance skills complemented dramatic roles.
- Notable films include The Cotton Club, White Nights and Tap.
- He led television projects and also guest-starred across popular series.
Style and influence
Hines championed "rhythm tap," stressing syncopation and percussive sound rather than ornamental steps. He mentored younger dancers and helped launch the career of several tap artists; his advocacy played a key role in the tap revival of the 1980s and 1990s.
Legacy and death
Regarded as both a consummate entertainer and an ambassador for tap, Hines left a lasting influence on American dance and popular culture. He continued performing and teaching until his illness; he died of liver cancer in 2003. For more on his life and work see resources on performance history and biographies (singer, dancer, actor).
Further reading and archival materials may be found via theatrical and film collections or curated online repositories (movies, television, Broadway). His career remains a reference point for those studying American musical performance and tap technique.