Boots on the Ground Movement Comes to Vineland
Boots on the Ground is a soul line dance sensation gaining widespread popularity, captivating dancers from coast to coast with smooth synchronized moves and community-driven spirit.
VINELAND — Entrepreneur Eugene Kelley Jr. and his family held their First Annual Boots on the Ground event on Saturday, May 10, 2025, as a pre-Mother's Day affair.
"It was a grown and sexy vibe," said Kelley. "A memorable time was had by all."
Boots on the Ground is a soul line dance sensation gaining widespread popularity, captivating dancers from coast to coast with smooth synchronized moves and community-driven spirit.
Choreographed by Tre Little and set to the upbeat track of the same name by 803Fresh, the 32-count, four-wall line dance has become a viral hit across social media platforms and is increasingly being featured at social gatherings, clubs, and community events. Its rising popularity has even sparked calls for the dance to be featured on major stages, including Beyoncé’s world tour.
Eugene organized the event with his sister Zyaire Kelley.
On Saturday, people came from all over New Jersey and beyond to celebrate with the Kelleys at Cloud No. 9 Event Venue on West Landis Avenue. They donned beautiful western wear from cowboy boots, to gambler and Aussie hats to traditional western brims.
"The people who came had a ball," Eugene said. "The crowd was good. They were engulfed in the event and there were no wall flowers. But we needed some more Black Cowboys."
Raymond Tyler
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The Kelleys included an open bar in the ticket price. They also arranged for food trucks to serve soul food and Mexican cuisine nearby.
"What an awesome experience! I had an Amazing time," Lita McNeil, who attended, wrote on Eugene's social media page after the event.
John Fuqua, agreed.
"A time was had last night," Fuqua said.
The Boots on the Ground dance was recently spotlighted on “Good Morning America” and has been embraced by groups like the Southeast Texas Steppers, reinforcing its cultural impact and appeal across generations.
Tutorials from Tre Little and other instructors on YouTube and TikTok have helped boost the dance’s visibility, making it easy for beginners and seasoned dancers alike to join the movement.
With its soulful roots and unifying rhythm, Boots on the Ground is more than a dance—it’s a growing cultural wave. As the energy builds, fans from Atlantic City to Vineland and beyond are picking up their fans, stepping to the beat, and proudly putting their own boots on the ground.
Eugene said the Kelleys' next Western themed event will be in the open air, although the first event was satisfying.
"The reception was great. We thought we were in Harder They Fall movie," Eugene said. "It was different."
Atlantic City Focus was in the building on Saturday night to capture the moments. Please enjoy our gallery from the Kelleys' First Annual Boots on the Ground Pre-Mother's Day affair.
Boots on the Ground. Photo Gallery Credit: Mark Tyler
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