When did northern soul get so southern?

"Northern soul began as an underground music and dance movement in the early 1970s as a form of escapism for young people living in small industrial towns across the north."

"Captivated, Tom took it upon himself to learn the signature dance style: spinning, high air-kicking, and falling to the ground backwards before launching back upright."

"Whether it's at Bristol Northern Soul Club or south London's Rivoli Ballroom, all the biggest actors in this so-called northern revival are from south of Birmingham."

"Videos of young dancers frequently go viral. Photo features dazzle us with images of twentysomethings keeping the faith during new all-nighters."

Northern soul, a movement that began in the 1970s in northern England, is witnessing a resurgence among Gen-Z. Young enthusiasts, like Tom from Salford, are captivated by the dance style and obscure black American soul music. Despite its northern roots, many of the current northern soul scenes and events are organized by individuals from southern England. This shift raises questions about the authenticity and geographical identity of the movement as it evolves and attracts a new generation of dancers.

Read at www.theguardian.com