Kentucky Complicado
Rueda de Casino Figure
RuedaLevel: Advanced1 min read3 citations
Kentucky Complicado is a sophisticated, multi-part figure within the Rueda de Casino repertoire, recognized for its intricate structure and extended duration [1]. Rather than a singular movement, it functions as a composite sequence that links several distinct Casino figures into a cohesive performance [1]. The figure typically initiates with the rhythmic foundation of the 'Kentucky' move, subsequently transitioning through a series of established patterns including 'Exhibela', 'Setenta y Cinco', 'Enchufala Engancha', and 'Dile Que No con Coca Cola' [1]. The sequence often concludes with a 'back-to-back' positioning, 'Side Rocks', and a leader's 'Vuelta' before returning to the initial 'Kentucky' motif [1]. Because of this layered assembly, the figure is categorized as advanced, requiring participants to possess high proficiency in individual component figures and the ability to maintain timing across a prolonged, evolving sequence [2]. While the exact historical origin of the name remains debated, it is widely documented in the global Rueda community and was notably featured in educational materials published in Miami in 2005 [3]. The figure is versatile, adaptable for both large-group Rueda circles and one-on-one social dancing, provided both partners are familiar with the specific progression [3].
How it's danced
Lead and follow cues
CountOn1 (standard Rueda timing; breaks on 1 & 5)
Lead
Kentucky Complicado
Follow
Follow the leader through the sequence of Kentucky, Exhibela, Setenta y Cinco, Enchufala Engancha, and Dile Que No.
Song timing160-185 bpm
Learn first
Prerequisites
- Kentucky
- Exhibela
- Setenta y Cinco
- Enchufala Engancha
- Dile Que No
Watch out
Common mistakes
- Losing the Rueda pulse during the transition between sub-figures
- Under-rotating during the Setenta y Cinco phase
- Failing to maintain the back-to-back connection before the final exit
Don't confuse with
Easily confused moves
- Setenta Complicado (a distinct figure with different component steps)
Around the world
Other names
Global Rueda de Casino
Kentucky Complicado
References
How to cite this article
Choose a style and copy the citation.
Bailar Editorial Team. (2026). Kentucky Complicado. Bailar Biblioteca. Retrieved July 4, 2026, from https://getbailar.com/biblioteca/move/rueda-kentucky-complicado
Bailar Editorial Team. “Kentucky Complicado.” Bailar Biblioteca, 2026, getbailar.com/biblioteca/move/rueda-kentucky-complicado. Accessed 4 July 2026.
Bailar Editorial Team. “Kentucky Complicado.” Bailar Biblioteca. Accessed July 4, 2026. https://getbailar.com/biblioteca/move/rueda-kentucky-complicado.
@misc{bailar-move-rueda-kentucky-complicado, author = {{Bailar Editorial Team}}, title = {{Kentucky Complicado}}, year = {2026}, howpublished = {Bailar Biblioteca}, url = {https://getbailar.com/biblioteca/move/rueda-kentucky-complicado}, note = {Accessed: 2026-07-04} }
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