The Four Step Brothers

The Four Step Brothers were an African-American dance group. The group started out as a trio in 1925, with the original members, Maceo Anderson, Al Williams and Red Walker.[1] Although their original name was the Step Brothers, because that was also the name of another famous young tap dancing quartet, they subsequently changed their name to "The Three Step Brothers."[2] In 1927, after accepting a new member, Sherman Robinson, they became The Four Step Brothers. Dubbed "The Eight Feet of Rhythm," the group soon traveled with Duke Ellington.[1] While starring with the "Brothers," Anderson also appeared at the Hoofers Club and worked part-time as a newsboy.[2]

The quartet was the first black act to perform at Radio City Music Hall, the first to appear at the Chez Paree Club in Chicago and the first to break television's color bar.[3]

  1. ^ a b Dunning, Jennifer (July 14, 2001). "Maceo Anderson, 90, Tap Dancer, Is Dead". The New York Times. Retrieved September 13, 2018.
  2. ^ a b Four Step Brothers [biography]. Retrieved September 13, 2018. {{cite book}}: |website= ignored (help)
  3. ^ Segal, Lewis. "Maceo Anderson; Tap Dancer Who Broke Color Line". Los Angeles Times. No. July 17, 2001. Retrieved September 14, 2018.