Kim Bowie, a legend in the Chicago Stepping community, gained his wings on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The announcement on Saturday sent a shockwave through our community. Videos, photos, posts, and interviews flooded social media to celebrate a man well loved by many and to acknowledge a life well lived. The story of his life through posts centered around a man who cherished lifelong friendships; deeply loved his wife, Pat, and prioritized family; and a selfless friend who was there for others. Videos captured over time framed his passion and commitment for this dance and the five decades Kim Bowie dedicated to Chicago Stepping.
Kim Bowie, a true “Lowend Legend” from Chicago’s South Side, began his journey in 1968 at just 11 years old, learning to bop. He competed in major contests like the World’s Largest and was one of the coldest on the wood. But his impact extended far beyond contests and the dance itself—photos with friends and their sentiments reflect the many lives he touched. Without a doubt, Kim Bowie has left an indelible mark on the history, progression, and community of Chicago Stepping.
5 Things I Will Remember About Kim Bowie
When I talk to new steppers about the Legend, Kim Bowie and what I know about him, this is what I’d say:
- When I visited Chicago, I usually saw Kim Bowie at Visions on Wednesdays at The Davneys United We Step. He was energetic and walked with purpose and a pep in his step. I could feel his presence. He didn’t move very far on the set without hugging and greeting several people and he always stopped to say hello to me.
- Always coordinated, I can’t remember seeing him without a hat or ball cap. His ball cap always matched his kicks. And when he was full out stepper sharp, he was well dressed, clean, and his shoes were always extra shiny.
- I danced with Kim Bowie many times when I saw him but not every time, because sometimes I wanted to stand back and watch him. Sometimes I was dancing with someone and then I’d see him approach the sidelines, he’d tap in and dance with me. That’s how our dances started. He did that a lot on the set.
- A few years ago, I approached Kim Bowie for an interview, drawn by his commanding presence that defied his small frame. He never cared about the size of his dance partner—he’d take any hand and put on a show. When we danced, our height difference disappeared, and it felt like we’d been partners for years—but nothing compared to the magic of watching him dance with his wife, Pat.
- His dance style was unmistakable and made him unforgettable on the set. His signature moves – quick tap-taps on his partner’s wrists, a dramatic backwards fall into their arms, a sudden dart across the floor before returning, the rapid kicks, and the squeeze. Most of his moves echoed the illusions and elements of the Originals. He was great at man-on-man. He competed in the Masters in 2021 staying true to his style. Kim Bowie was an entertainer.
The Calls and My Last Dance with Kim Bowie
I spoke to Kim Bowie twice on the phone. The first call started as a three way with Lloyd Johnson and then he had to go. Each time, our calls ran for close to three hours. We shared and debated about man-on-man, how it changed, and what it was not. He shared history about East of the Ryan before it became East of the Ryan and sets he hosted there. His interview with Cami was always a hot topic to address dancing with no count.
We never did a formal interview, but I learned so much about Chicago Stepping and this dance culture from him in our conversations. He is one of the first people who made me realize when I have his attention, this is the interview – nothing formal, just talking. Thank you Kim Bowie for all you’ve imparted to me and for the dances. My last dance with him was on February 2, 2025 at the R Lounge at DJ Cross’ Sunday night set. I will not forget Kim Bowie and those hands. My condolences to all his family and friends.