Hip-hop dancing has always been an integral part of the hip-hop culture, with b-boys and b-girls showcasing their skills and creativity on dance floors all around the world. These dancers have played a significant role in shaping the evolution of hip-hop dance and have paved the way for future generations of dancers to follow in their footsteps.
We have carefully curated a list of the most influential and talented dancers in the history of breakdancing. , celebrating their unique styles, innovation, and contributions to the art form. From breakdancing battles to international competitions, these dancers have paved the way for future generations to continue pushing the boundaries of the art form.
SPY
Spy (Crazy Commandos)
B-boy Spy, from the Crazy Commandos Crew, dominated in the art breaking in the mid to late 1970’s. His understanding of the foundation allowed him to evolve and take moves from other b-boys and redesigned them to make them his own. At the same time, he was creating moves that would later be taken by others. But, many could never do it like Spy. Spy was recognized as the creator of moves that serve as major components to what is the foundation of breaking, such as the Six-Step Footwork, the CC Rock, Swipes, the Baby Freeze, and his Latino flavor of top rocking.
His arsenal of moves made it easy for his peers to refer to him as “The Man With A Thousand Moves”. According to Spy’s personal friend and peer, Trac 2 from Star Child La Rock. “Spy was a master illusionist”. With that being said, it is no wonder how Spy could do just about any move in both directions and make it seem as if each time he did them, they appeared to be different moves.
Spy’s partnership with the music showed that in order to rock the floor, you first had to let the music rock your soul. He was the absolute epitome of what a b-boy should be. His influence is such that it served as the blue-print for what has become what a b-boy or b-girl must learn in order to become one. Spy’s influence was the very reason why b-boys such as Crazy Legs and many others wanted to strive and become the best b-boy that they could be. Spy was an idol and a super hero to many b-boys and b-girls in this Hip Hop game before it ever became commercial. He was the first larger than life b-boy and is a true legend among his peers.
Ken Swift
Ken Swift (/ VII Gems)
Ken Swift (born Kenneth James Gabbert) is a B-boy and former Vice President of the Rock Steady Crew of which he was a long time member and key figure of, he is now President of the VII Gems Hip Hop movement in NYC. Widely known in the B-Boy world as “the Epitome of a B-Boy,” Ken Swift is credited as the bboy who innovated footwork, developing foundation. S.W.I.F.T.: Swift Wizard In Footwork Technique. Ken Swift is nearly universally considered by B-Boys to be the individual who has had the greatest influence on bboying. Ken Swift began B-Boying in 1978 at the age of twelve when he was inspired by dancers on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
Ken Swift has several film credits to his name, including “Style Wars”, the first hip-hop documentary, and the first hip-hop major motion picture, “Wild Style”. His most famous movie was 1983’s hit “Flashdance”, where his two-minute dance with several members of the Rock Steady Crew launched the Hip-Hop scene into national attention. Ken Swift also danced in the motion picture “Beat Street”.
Frosty Freeze
Frosty Freeze (Rock Steady Crew)
Wayne “Frosty Freeze” Frost ( – ), also known as The Freeze To Please, was an American old school hip hop b-boy known as a member of the second generation of the hip hop/breakdancing group, The Rock Steady Crew.
As a member of The Rock Steady Crew, he was known for his comedic, acrobatic and inventive style. His trademark move is known as, “The Suicide”, also known as “The Death Freeze Drop” (a move that he created accidentally by attempting a poorly executed backflip and landing on his back). His talents with The Rock Steady Crew were featured in movies such as Flashdance, Wild Style, Style Wars and The Freshest Kids and also appeared on the cover of The Village Voice in 1981. He was featured in early hip hop music videos such as Afrika Bambaataa and The Soulsonic Force’s “Planet Rock” and Malcolm McLaren‘s “Buffalo Gals”
In 2004, he along with several other members of The Rock Steady Crew were honored at the VH-1 Hip Hop Honors.
Frosty Freeze resided in New York City, regularly making appearances at many hip-hop events throughout the New York metropolitan area and elsewhere in the country. He was stricken with an undisclosed illness during early 2008, went on life support on , and died on .
Crazy Legs
Crazy Legs (Rock Steady Crew)
Crazy Legs (born Richard Colón on January 1, 1966) is a b-boy from the Bronx, New York City, USA. He featured in the earliest stories on hip hop dancing to appear in mainstream press, and as president of the Rock Steady Crew brought the form to London and Paris in 1983. Today he is also involved in community outreach, dance instruction and dance theater productions. His pioneering status is reflected in his appearances in fiction films and documentaries, old and new. Crazy Legs is the only original member remaining of the Rock Steady Crew, and is its current president.
Richard “Crazy Legs” Colón grew up in Morris Park in the Bronx, New York City, where he was introduced to “breaking” by his older brother when he was nine. He was an original member of the Rock Steady Crew after its foundation in 1979. Dance critic Sally Banes in an April 1981 piece on the form in the Village Voice quotes Crazy Legs listing the best dancers extant and documents his accidental invention of the “continuous back” move, in which the dancer spins on his upper back with the assitance of his elbow like a turtle move but spins once then again and so on each time repeating a spin 3 to 4 times calling it continuous back spins The next month saw the New York Times cover a three day conference on “Bronx folk culture”. “There is a system of apprentices: a ‘Lil’ Crazy Legs with Crazy Legs,” the Times reported, “Dance steps are performed solo to an accompaniment called rapping – chanting voice and percussion.”
His first film appearance was as himself in Charlie Ahearn‘s independent release Wild Style (1982), followed by his featuring in the early documentary on hip hop culture Style Wars (PBS, 1983). As a craze for all things hip hop took hold, the 16-year-old Crazy Legs, now President of the Rock Steady Crew, took hip hop dance to Paris and London as part of the New York City Rap Tour, with recording artists Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmixer D.ST, graffiti artists Fab 5 Freddie and Futura 2000, and the World Champion Fantastic Four Double Dutch Girls. Appearances in Hollywood films were another consequence: he was a street dancer (and also a heavily disguised body double for Jennifer Beals‘ final dance scenes) in the movie Flashdance (Paramount, 1983) and, as with Wild Style, played himself in the fiction film Beat Street (Orion, 1984).
In 1991 he danced in So! What Happens Now?, “probably the first hip-hop production on a mainstream dance stage in New York City,” according to the New York Times, which reflected that the production proved “street dance is an art as demanding and inventive as mainstream dance forms like ballet and jazz.” The following year came Concrete Jungle as part of a program at the Lincoln Center which the Times called “a turning point in the evolution of urban street dance,” the piece itself being “extraordinarily affecting”. The “jubilantly hyperactive” and “astonishing” Jam on the Groove debuted in 1995, and in 1999 Crazy Legs instructed dancers of the Urban Youth Theater for their show Minotaur.
His connection to hip hop culture outside of theater remains strong, with hosting of b-boy contests, appearances at live events, and staging of Rock Steady Crew Anniversaries. Documentaries continue to feature Crazy Legs: a look at contemporary hip hop called The Voice of a Nation (Goldcrest, 1993), Here Come the Drums (8mm, 1993), Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme (Bowery, 2000) and The Freshest Kids (QD3, 2003). He joined a host of hip hop personalities in providing voice-overs for the television comedy series Kung Faux (Dubtitled/Tommy Boy, 2003). He is also a character in the video game Def Jam Fight For NY (EA, 2004). In 2006 he was invited by the Smithsonian Institution to contribute to a collection for the National Museum of American History.
Alien~ Ness
Alien Ness (Mighty Zulu Kingz)
Luis Roberto Martinez Jr., AKA “Alien Ness,” is a b-boy who has earned widespread praise from today’s up-and-coming b-boys on an international level, all the while maintaining a funky old school style and staying true to the essence of hip-hop. Known for many years as “Kid Ness,” a nickname passed down to him by “Mr. Ness” of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five back in 1982, when he first started rockin’ the dance floor with his fancy footwork and complex aerial moves, most notably, his unearthly elbow spins. Almost immediately, his skills attracted the attention of Dance System 10. He began touring with them; and securing other shows in Japan, and for Carnival Cruise Lines.
Under the guidance of the late Scott La Rock and KRS One, Alien Ness was an original member of Boogie Down Productions. Shortly thereafter, in 1985, he was recruited as a member of the already established and world-renowned “New York City Breakers.” As the years passed on, the name “Kid Ness” faded away, and he was re-named “Alien Ness” by Afrika Bambaatta, the Godfather of hip-hop.
Alien Ness is a multimedia performer with numerous credits. He appeared in the movies “The Last Dragon” and “Krush Groove,” working alongside Run-DMC, Kurtis Blow, Fat Boys and Sheila E, and is also one of the key featured dancers in the upcoming film “ALL OUT WAR”. Performing in concerts over the last two decades, Alien Ness has rocked with artist that include, LL Cool J, Salt ‘n Pepa, Kool DJ Red Alert, Kurtis Blow, Tony Touch, Kid Rock, Cuba Gooding Jr., Public Enemy, Wu-Tang Clan, Black Eye Peas, and the God Father of Hip Hop himself Dj Afrika Bambaataa.
Inspired to give something back to his community, Ness has taught dance at community centers throughout New York, notably The Point C.D.C. in the South Bronx, and Henry Street Settlement on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. He has also taught teens in after school program in NYC schools in Queens. He has participated in charitable shows for the Cancer Society and the Wyclef Foundation in Miami Fl. As well as in NYC’s carnegie hall, and headlined three showcase benefits for the Blackout Children’s Fund, both as dancer and rapper. His insight and experience in the culture of hip-hop earned him invitations to lecture at Yale, Rutgers, New York University, San Francisco State University, Sacramento State University, Seattle’s “Experience Music Project”, and on BET Teen Summit, and has been a major contributor to countless published books on the history of Hip Hop and its dance culture, leading to the release of his own and highly anticipated book, THE ART OF BATTLE.” ,released by Throwdown Publications UK.
Bringing his skills to the stage, Alien Ness headlined at the Hip-Hop 3000 tour in Bologna, Italy, co-choreographed and co-starred in the theatrical dance fusion, The Art of Weightlessness which played in Philadelphia, New York City and Paris, France, as well as himself in “Echo Park: The Hip-Hop Musical,” which played at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Alien Ness’ superb expertise and honed craft has led him to also choreograph the half time show for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury Hip-Hop Squad and also participated as an instructor for a yearly dance camp which includes one week of intense training and choreography in Phoenix Az., aswell as in Seattle Wa.. Most rescently Ness has participated at the “STYLE IS KING” dance workshops in Switzerland. Ness has also had 2 succesful “Blueprint Workshop” tours throughout Australia, Asia and Europe, and continues to bring his unique teaching style which have honed some of the best b-boys, to dance schools all across the globe.
Mr. Wiggles
MR.WIGGLES
Mr. Wiggles (Rock Steady Crew/ Electric Boogaloos)
Popper/ Locker/ Bboy
Creator of threads, knee rock footwork, and spider man footwork.
Mr Wiggles is a South Bronx Puerto Rican born raised on HIP HOP since the early 70’s. Learned all his HIP HOP crafts in the harsh streets of the Bronx.
WRITING (graffiti), ROCKIN (vertical style dance done by many Latinos in the 70’s), BREAKIN/BBOYIN (involves Top Rock, Footwork and Freezes), MCin
(what is now known as RAP), POPPIN (robotic dance style created in Fresno CA.), LOCKIN (dance style created in LA made popular by Rerun on TV show What’s happening), BEAT MAKER (HIP HOP music producer)
Wiggles is a proud member of three major forces in HIP HOP and Funk Styles culture “Rock Steady Crew”, the “Electric Boogaloos” and “Zulu Nation”. Mr Wiggles started his career as a dancer by battling throughout the tuff streets of New York city, and eventually throughout the world. Wiggles built his reputation as a battler, and eventually took his skills to major stages all around the world
including Europe, South America, Asia, Middle East, Canada, and on the great stages of Broadway. Wiggles has also been credited with two important movies that helped established HIP HOP “Beat Street” and “Wild Style”. Wiggles is still learning his crafts till this day, and will remain a true student of the culture till the day he dies.
Kamel
Kamel (Boogie Brats)
Popper/Locker/Bboy
Kamel aka K-mel or Intrigue is credited as the pioneer who helped develop the dance to a whole new level. By using original foundation and his own unique style combined with raw freestyle movements. He contributed flips, flow, dancing to the beat and other forms of movements to make this art form more of a dance.
Tony The Pencil
Tony Penfold aka Tony the Pencil ( Second To None) UK
Tony well know for his head-spin has inspired many . Second to None was formed in 1985 by Steve Kerr, Paul Spencer, Terry Shaw and Tony the Pencil. It was made from members of the Bournemouth crews: “Shock City”, “South Style”, “Universal Rockers” and “The Masters” from Portsmouth and Southampton. Shortly after, they started a practice session at a club called, “Madison Joe’s” which became the centre of the hip hop universe on the South coast of England. Since the 1980’s STN never gave up breakin, no matter how much abuse they received from the fashion victims and larger louts.
Megas
Megas (Boogie Brats)
Megas aka Vengence ( founder of Boogie Brats ) is credited as the pioneer who innovated footwork. He also was known for combining power with footwork. He also introduced Origami Style, which is a threading style in bboying, that has greatly innovated footwork style what it is known as today. Innovator of threads, where he created future foundational moves known as wraps, loops, and weaves.
Jason Orange
Jason Orange ( Street Machine ) Manchester UK
Jason Orange was with Street Machine, the other great Manchester crew, before becoming a member of Take That, the famous pop act), taking to the circle with some impressive moves, following the introduction of Broken Glass by Benji Reid and Kermit.
SLIM THE ROBOT
Bill Williams “Slim The Robot ”
Slim was an Early Soul Train Dancer who was taught to Robot by Charles Robot. Slim went on to tour with the improvistional dancers known as the “Campbellock dancers” and was an Original Member of the “Original Lockers”. He reinovated the basic robot style into a quick karate style robot movement and was also known for introducing a colored light suit and flame throwing capabilities into his act.
Rubberband
Rubberband (Rockwell Association)
Rubberband – Oldschool B-Boy from the from where it all started in the 1970’s DaBronx! Number one breakdance Crew, but the truth is all where number one who shared in the love of the Hip Hop world of Dance, DJ, Rap, Graffiti and MC! For me it all started in areas like 182st Belmont Ave, 180 and Crotona Ave. and Aurther Ave. With Crews like TBB, TDK, STARCHID LA ROCK, CC CREW, And our crew of ROCKWELL ASSOCIATION, AKA RWA then later on with Rocksteady Crew who carried B-boying to another level in the 1980’s
Storm
Storm (Battle Squad)
‘Storm’ started dancing as a little child, but seriously cought on to the dances Bboying, Popping and Locking at the age of 14. His first tours he did for “Bravo Breakdancesensation 84”. Soon after that, the big fashion ‘Breakdance’ died out. Nevertheless, he didn’t stop studying styles, got connected with other Bboys and stayed creative and productive throughout the unfashionable ages until this date.
By 1991 his group “the Battle Squad” was one of the leading bboygroups worldwide and thanx to them and others, the art of Bboying is so alive and strong these days.
In 1991 and 1992 him and his crew Battle Squad won the “international Battle of the year”.
Because of the struggle in times when Bboying was out of fashion, he decided to establish HipHopculture in the theatreworld.
From 1992 on he danced with a New Yorker dance Company called ‘Ghettoriginal’. he performed shows in Washingtons ‘Kennedy Center’ and in NYCities ‘Lincolncenter’. While living in NYC he got his feeling for “Funk” back by working out with “Mr Wiggles” and “Adesola” at rehearsals and on off days. So he started studying the dancestyles popping and locking.
During the same period he was hosting the HipHop Magazine ‘Freestyle’ on the german TV channel Viva.
Briefly after quitting the job in early 1996, he decided to form a dancecompany in his hometown Berlin, which was called the ‘Storm and Jazzy Project’. With two choreographies they toured many different theatres around the world.
In times he wasnï¿´t dancing, he wrote on the book ‘From Swipe to Storm’ which came out in january 2000 and is telling the story of “Breaking” in Germany. It was only published in german language.
Nowadays Storm also choreographs and directs for different theatres and institutions all over the world. He also choreographed for the opening ceremonies of the “Expo 2000” in hannover and the “FIFA soccerworldcup 2006 in Germany”. He is a legendary bboy especially accredited for his foundational technique movements that helped develop this dance, covering all bases in foundation: footwork, power, freezes, transitions utilizing movements, variations, and combinations within the dance.
King Uprock
King Uprock (Dynasty Rockers)
Ralph Casanova a True Pioneer in Hip Hop History (King Uprock)(R.C.) Dynasty Rockers Name, Ralph Casanova, a.k.a. King Uprock is a 36 year old veteran of the Uprock Dance. He is currently Rocking to the best of his abilities and in top form, with so much Love for the dance. Born in the “Boogie down”, Bronx, moved to Brooklyn at the age of 5 years. While growing up in Brooklyn he watched Gangsters UpRocking and was interested at the age of 10.
Uprock began in the year 1968 by the late Rubber Band man and Apache. These two guys were gangsters taking this dance to a higher and positive level. Dynasty Rockers were the first to flash letters on sweat shirts and jackets in 1973. Manny Figueroa, Eddie Figueroa, Danny Boy and Carlos Rivera were the first Dynasty members. Watching these legends along with other pioneers like Lil Dave of the “Lil Dave Rockers” and Rocky Nelson from “MTC”, and Papo & Junior of the “Dynamic Spinners”. It was amazing to see many moves in this dance.
Gabin Nuissier
Gabin Nuissier (Aktuel Force)
Founded in Paris in 1984, Aktuel Force is one of the first break dance companies in Europe. Led by dancer Gabin Nuissier, he was a must for many French dancers, such as Ibrahim, Salah, Bintou Dembélé and even the rapper Kool Shen Supreme NTM group.
POE ONE
Edmundo aka Poe One (Rock So Fresh/ Style Elements Crew/ Mighty Zulu Kingz)
Puerto Rican born Poe One lives in Los Angeles and is a member of Rock So Fresh, Zulu Kingz, and Style Elements crew. Poe is active as dancer, teacher, judge and also as event promoter in his country and all over the world. He has been member of the jury at several big international events such as the Battle of the Year or the Red Bull BC ONE 2005. Poe is well known for his excellent teaching skillz so he is also travelling the world holding dancing masterclasses and workshops.
STEVE KERR
Steve Kerr (Second to None) UK
Second to None was formed in 1985 by Steve Kerr, Paul Spencer, Terry Shaw and Tony the Pencil. It was made from members of the Bournemouth crews: “Shock City”, “South Style”, “Universal Rockers” and “The Masters” from Portsmouth and Southampton. Shortly after, they started a practice session at a club called, “Madison Joe’s” which became the centre of the hip hop universe on the South coast of England. Since the 1980’s STN never gave up breakin, no matter how much abuse they received from the fashion victims and larger louts.
SWIFT ROCK
Swift Rock (Battle Squad)
Boris “Swift Rock” Leptin. Founder of the B-Boy Crew “Battle Squad”.
He started breaking in 1983 with the influence of as mentioned by him “here‘s a couple of people I want to mention who played a major part in all of this: In the beginnin‘ the Rock Steady Crew (from the SixStep to Headspin I got from Crazy Legs) But only watched him on TV. He has the nicest Six Step I know. Then Prince Ken Swift in Wildstyle, how he is on the PVC in the Park doin‘ Poprocks and the footwork and the footwork in the whole Movie inspired and rocked me. NYCity Breakers for powermoves (the ones who stand out Pex, Little Lep, Ice-Ice) and the Dynamic Rockers. Later on it was Maurizio, Emilio from Italy, I got to know them back in 1986 that‘s how they became members of the “Battle Squad”. Brian from Manchester Street Machine (England) he became my Mentor for Top-Rock and footwork. Also Paulo, he was in 1985 doing Flair Airtwists and Flair Stand still in the Air without touching ground and changed directions. He has a Handycap in his leg, that‘s why he specialized more in Powermoves. He moved everything away. I always think about it when I was injured on my leg, to hold my leg still and just practice wolf, turtles, flairs, 90s were I don‘t have to bend my knee. Orko I‘ve seen on the Olympics on TV and tried to turn like himÉ Like Little Alex from New York City Breakers at the Reagan-Appearance in white. Around 1988 the French like Aktuel Force or Paris City Breakers their elegant style of dancing, and how they did their Steps in a total different manner. That influenced me. The Swiss, Frank whom he and I brought this crew to Live in 1989 or Zed who‘s down with the Spartanic Rockers. His Steps were wicked. The Throw Down Rockers from Sweden Second 2 None from England. The man who made it all possible who showed us around and introduced us to the people, and dragged you to every practice spot in NY to show them that B-Boys in Europe are present, was Quickstep. He never really quit to dance, and damn you could tell. Elbowtracks and Donuts just nice. And of course Storm, we always pushed and inspired each other. Swift Rock is a pioneer to this dance because he is known for footwork and power movements.
NEXT ONE
Maurizio aka Next 1 (Rock Steady Crew/ VII Gems)
Widely considered a Bboy legend, The NextOne a.k.a. The Dreamer (born Maurizio Cannavò) is a Hip Hop pioneer in Italy. Not only has he been dancing as a Bboy for over 30 years but he is also a world renowned DJ and music producer. In the B-Boy world, NextOne is credited for the creation of many dance moves such as “Power Footworks” and “Space Flow.” In the 90’s he became a member of the legendary “Rock Steady Crew” and toured with the first HipHop Musical world tour entitled “Jam On The Groove.” To this day, his contributions and dedication for the art form is widely recognized and respected worldwide.
NextOne is a serious record collector with an extensive collection that boasts over 20,000 original vinyl records. He has also produced beats for many different artists and musicians as well as performed & collaborated with legends such as: Rakim, Gangstarr, Guru’s Jazzmatazz, Afrika Bambaataa & Kool Dj Herc, Donald Dee, Grand Master Caz (Cold Crush Brothers), Grand Mixer DST, ?uest Love, Rahzel & Scratch (the Roots), Common, Tony Touch & Cocoa Brovaz, Das Efx, Maseo (De la Soul), Alliance Etnik, Mc Solar, Smooth da Hustler & Nexx Level Click, Group Home, Chief Rocker Busy Bee, Ali Shaheed Muhammad (ATCQ), Erick Sermon and many others.
Due to his contributions to these art forms his name has had credits in many books and documentaries and he continues to be invited to numerous Music and Bboy events to judge competitions, participate in panel discussions, hold workshops, and DJ for events.
SKEETER RABBIT
Skeeter Rabbit – Stephen Mark Nicholas
Skeeter Rabbit 1960-2006 was a street and hip-hop dancer. He was teamed with ballet dancer Ann Marie DeAngelo in a 1989 Sesame Street segment (directed and choreographed by Toni Basil) where they perform a dance routine, but the frame freezes whenever the word STOP comes on. (First: Episode 2600)
A specialist in the dancing styles of popping and boogaloo, Nicholas was a member of the influential street dance crew the Electric Boogaloos. He was part of the dance troupe on David Bowie‘s 1987 Glass Spider Tour and in the video for Bowie’s song “Time Will Crawl” (both with Basil as choreographer). Skeeter also worked in music videos with Thomas Dolby, Talking Heads, Madonna, Usher, Michael Jackson, and Chaka Khan.
BETA RAWK
Bgirl Beta Rawk (Ground Zero Crew)
BETA RAWKZ is a notorious award winning b-girl. The “Blue Enigma that Transcends All” started breaking when she was only 11 years old and competed internationally with the crew Ground Zero before joining the legendary Miami Street Masters as the only female member. Her dancing technique and ability remain unmatchable by her peers. She is unmistakable on the floor, combining rhythm, gentle athletic power and speed into fluid and intricate movements. Quiet in disposition, charismatic in presence and intimidating at sight, Beta is a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor. She has won countless individual competitions, toured and trained internationally and is frequently requested to judge at events. She hosted her first event in Miami called “Masters IN ACTION” and is working to empower women through Hip Hop as a member of the Collective 7. She is featured in “All The Ladies Say” documentary directed by B-Girl Rokafella. Beta is a teaching artist for the P.A.T.H. (Preserving Archiving and Teaching HipHop) program in Miami.
KEVIN MORRIS
Kevin Morris (Borken Glass)
Kevin Morris, the urban scene of breakdancing and its newer incarnation, streetdancing, is in his bones.
1980s US-influenced fusion of rap and hip-hop music, graffiti, and the new moves of breakdancing, Kevin and the Broken Glass Street Crew, saw their passion lead them to become top talents.
The then-13-year-old and four of his mates all went to Wilbraham High School – now Chorlton High – and formed their crew after listening to the likes of Shalamar and Malcolm McLaren.
Kevin, 40, a grandad of one and dad-of-five to three girls and two boys, aged from 23 to four, who now lives in Streford, said: “We used to have a laugh practising our moves dancing on the Nell Lane estate and going to what we called the ‘top road’, on the corner of Mauldeth Road and Barlow Moor Road.
“In those days you had to do it yourself. You had to get a piece of linoleum, find a street corner and practise. We just started doing it – there was no one to teach us.
“We used to have dance battles. It was one of the things we did to sort out the men from the boys – but there was no fighting, just dancing.
ASIA ONE
Nancy “Asia One” Yu
Nancy “Asia One” Yu is one of the best-known and most-respected b-girls in the world, the founder and CEO of the annual B-Boy Summit event, a member of Fame City Graffiti Crew, President of the Mighty Zulu Kweenz Crew and founder of No Easy Props, a non-profit with the mission to preserve Hip-Hop culture and provide education and entertainment to communities of all ages throughout the world. She appears extensively in commercials, television shows, and films. Asia One holds a double B.A. in Art and Social Engagement, Multiculturalism & Activism from Metropolitan State University of Denver. Her main interest and purpose is to bring diverse groups of people together to create discourse and social change, using the vehicle of Hip-Hop.
THE BONE
Tyrone ‘The Bone’ Proctor
Tyrone ‘The Bone’ Proctor belong to the first generation of Waackers that came out in L.A. in the early’s 70’s. He was a member of the ‘Outrageous Waack Dancers’ with Jeffrey Daniel, Jody Watley, Sharon Hill, Cleveland Moses Jr,and Kirt Washington. Tyrone is one of the last of the pioneers who named this dance style.
Tyrone: ‘Waacking came from the gay community in the early’s 70’s on the West Coast and it evolved from what the gay community was doing all along. At this time no one could imagine that this dance would be so popular as it is today. The dance was mainly danced by The Black and Spanish Community. It evolved from two things, Drag Queens performing, and Still Pictures and Musicals of old Females Stars from the 1920’s to the 60’s icons like: Greta Garbo’s, Rita Haywards and Marilyn Monroe to name a few.
LIL’CESAR
Cesar Rivas – Lil Cesar
Lil’ Cesar born in El Salvador and moved to the west coast from a young age is one of the most influential names in Hip-Hop. In 1984 he brought together the Air Force Crew an offshoot from one of the early West Coast Breakdance Crews known as The Shake City Rockers. Known throughout the world for his dance skills and his non-stop efforts in keeping Hip-Hop along with all its elements alive in the minds of the people. Lady A.i. speaks to the man himself.
Omar “RoxRite” Delgado Macias (born April 6, 1982) is a competitive b-boy from Windsor, California. As of March 2018, he has won 100 titles including the UK B-Boy Championships (2005),R16 (2009),Red Bull BC One and Freestyle Session (2009, 2013, and 2014). RoxRite was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and raised in Windsor, California. His family moved to the United States when he was six years old, but he wasn’t introduced to breaking until he was 12. Although he was born in Mexico, RoxRite represents the U.S. in competition because the U.S. is where he was raised and where he learned breaking. He won his first international b-boy title in France in 2003.
His style of b-boying led to the name ‘Roxrite,’ a term referring to how he always rocked right (i.e. danced the right way). Roxrite is one of three dancers from the US to have claimed the Red Bull BC One title.
RoxRite appeared in a documentary about breaking called Turn It Loose (2010)[12] and in two seasons of the Red Bull-produced online reality series Break’n Reality (2012 and 2014).In 2013, he was on the selection committee for the B-Boy Scholarship Fund sponsored by TheBBoySpot.com. In 2015, he co-directed an online series with b-boy Ali “Lilou” Ramdani called Crew Code.He is a member of four b-boy crews: Renegades, Squadron, Break Disciples, and Red Bull BC One All-Stars.
B-Boy Moy
Moises “B-boy Moy” Rivas, is a legend in the world of breakdancing. He most recently helped to bring breakdancing to the 2024 Olympics as a competing sport. Before breakdancing hits the world stage, B-boy Moy has partnered with Monster Energy on the Dream Circles series to bring awareness to the art form.
Growing up in Houston, Texas, Moy made a name for himself with the Havikoro Crew in the late 90s and early 2000s. In addition to being active in dancing, Moy is the founder and owner of the Break Free school in Houston that helps kids develop their social and physical skills through different elements of hip hop culture.
In Buenos Aires, the ARMs will play a key role in supporting and mentoring the nearly 4,000 young athletes participating at the Games. All ARMs were selected by the International Federations in the 32 sports that appear on the YOG programme in Buenos Aires. Joining Moy as an ARM for breaking will be B-Girl AT from Finland.
“For the last few months, I have been traveling around the world, either competing, showcasing or most importantly educating,” says Moy. “I’ve had the opportunity to educate and bring awareness about the YOG during some of my workshops and panels.”
During the YOG, Moy and AT, together with their fellow ARMs from other sports, will be accessible to the athletes in the Youth Olympic Village and during a series of educational activities and workshops. These activities will focus on areas such as skills development, career advice, how to lead healthy lifestyles and the Olympic values.
The ARMs will also be available for informal chats in a specially created lounge that will be open to all participants. Fans of the YOG will have the opportunity to put their questions directly to the ARMs during informal chat sessions on the Olympic Channel and wider social media platforms.
B-boy Moy is looking forward to interacting with the young athletes in Buenos Aires: “During the YOG, I would like to be involved in as much as possible,” he says. “Any platform given to me that allows me to share my story and insights will greatly be appreciated.”
In Buenos Aires, the ARMs will spend time in the four parks, engaging with local youth through various Learn & Share activities and participating in sport initiation sessions for the public. Moy and AT will hold breaking initiation sessions in the Urban Park, close to the competition venue. In addition, the duo has decided to give workshops to local children at a community centre in Bueno Aires, providing them with the opportunity to dance with international b-boys and b-girls.
Moy and AT will also serve as judges during what will be the first ever breaking competitions at an Olympic event. “As a judge, I’m always looking for solid and well-rounded dancers – dancers that can connect to the music, show a great sense of passion and personality, while executing the dynamics of their rounds (solos). I don’t expect anything but the best from everyone,” he says with a smile.
It will be Moy’s first time in the Argentinian capital and he says he is looking forward to “an overall great experience with the people and culture.”
Mr. Wave
Nicknamed Mr. Wave, Tony Draughon Wesley was born and raised in the Bronx NY in 1965.
As a child, Tony spent years searching for his “place in life”. After sincere searches for who he was, Tony found himself through the art of dance and was inspired by a true legend— the late Michael Jackson. Jackson’s performance of his dance The Robot inspired Tony to pursue his passion and gifting in dance. As he began to pursue his strengths, the culture and his neighborhood lent themselves to his development.
As he progressed, this new style of dance—b-boying and breakdance— began to create his now well known title of Mr. Wave. He assumed this name because he created the illusion that his body parts were waving—this was unlike anything anyone had ever seen!
As he began to add his personal twist to dance, Tony became known around the community – at that time as Dr. Electric because of his seemingly electrifying body movements. Inspired by the music of the times, in 1983 his movements offered him the opportunity to become a member of a NYC B-Boy group; The New York City Breakers. The well known dancer, Kid Nice fell in love with Tony’s unique style of dance and suggested he perform at a national, televised event—the 1983 CBS Kennedy Center Honors.
That year, dance legend Katherine Dunham as well as Frank Sinatra in addition to other creative luminaries, directed the event. This was only the beginning for Mr. Wave, later he was asked to dance at the White House and was even recognized by Bob Hope who proclaimed, “Mr. Wave couldn’t possibly have a single bone in his body.”
Mr. Wave’s innovative style of dance and ability to withstand the test of time has cemented him as a living legend of dance. In 2014 Mr. Wave kicked off his “I Never Left” campaign that led him to provide dance instruction and motivational sessions in Paris and Amsterdam. That campaign was the start of his re-branding as a motivational speaker and entrepreneur.
Recognizing the impact that sharing his story and struggles had on his young audiences; Wave, wanting to give back to his community and particularly the youngest of the same, launched the I Am That Kid Foundation, a platform by which dance classes, motivational seminars could impact the lives of the next generation of hip hop.
Lilou
Ali Ramdani (born 18 April 1984), better known by his stage name Lilou, is an Algerian-French b-boy breakdancer. He is part of the French crew Pockemon Crew and the all-star team LEGION X. Since the beginning of his career in 1999, he has won many international prizes, both with his crew and as a solo dancer. He has had a black belt in Kung Fu since he was sixteen. He practices Islam and can speak Algerian Arabic, French and English.
Ali “Lilou” Ramdani
B-boy Lilou sitting on the judging panel for the Red Bull BC One Baltic tournament in Riga, Latvia on May 14, 2011
Being one of the only three b-boys to have won Red Bull BC One twice. Winner of the first edition of Undisputed.
Lilou was the winner of the b-boy competition Red Bull BC One in 2005 and 2009. He is one of the only four competitors to have won the Red Bull BC One twice, the other three being Hong 10, Victor and Menno. He also won Battle of the Year in 2003 with Pockemon Crew. In 2005, Lilou won the Chief Rocka award at the UK Bboy Championships. The following year, he was part of the Pockemon team that won the Crews competition at the UK Bboy Championships. In 2006, Lilou was featured in the game B-Boy, released by FreeStyleGames. In 2008, Lilou took part in Chemical Brothers’ music video “Midnight Madness”. He also appears in the film StreetDance 2. In 2012, he joined Madonna’s MDNA Tour as a dancer and choreographer. In 2014, he became the winner of Undisputed. In doing so, he became the world champion b-boy in 2014. He lists Michael Jackson, Zinedine Zidane, Muhammad Ali, and Jamiroquai as influences.
Hong 10
Kim Hong-Yul (born 1984), better known by his stage name Hong 10, is a Korean b-boy. He is part of the Korean crew Flow XL (formally known as Drifterz), 7Commandoz worldwide and represents the Red Bull BC One All Stars.
The name Hong10 comes from using a Korean language homonym and an English language pun. The second syllable of his name, Yul (but the name had been misspelled as ‘Yeol’) , has the same pronunciation as the Korean pronunciation for the number ten. Therefore, pronouncing the phrase Hong10 in Korean will be the same pronunciation as his real name, Hong-Yul. However, this nickname Hong10 was in the crew Expression (with which he won the Battle of the Year title in 2002) and is currently in a crew called Drifterz and a project team named Project Soul and Project Korea while he also performs as a solo dancer. Recently he and his good friend Bboy Differ founded a crew called 7Commandoz with the world-renowned bboys Ronnie, Differ, Skim, Wing, Dyzee and Phil Wizard. Its former member, Bboy Menno, left the crew. The crew members are known for their originality and futuristic style. Hong10 is one of Red Bull All Stars since 2010.[4]
Hong10 had represented Jinjo Crew with fellow 7Commandoz members [5] Skim and Wing in several competitions, such as the UK B-Boy Championships 2009, Battle of the Year (2010, 2018), and R-16 Korea in both 2011 and 2012. Hong10 and Jinjo members are very close. They share the same studio and he takes a part in performance with Jinjo but Hong10 is not the member of Jinjo . [6]
Moves
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Some of his signature moves include the spinning airchair, switching halos, handcuff mills to headspin drills, chair flares, and his signature freeze the Hong10 Freeze [7] Hong10 is also known as The king of Halo freeze [8] because of his many Hong10 (halo) freeze variations.
History
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He first became a well-known bboy during 2002 when he exploded onto the scene being part of the Korean crews that won the then two most prestigious dance competitions in the world – Battle of the Year International and the UK B-Boy Championships. He has also done well in many individual competitions, as a red bull BC one all star winning in 2006, São Paulo Brazil and took the title in 2013 in his hometown, Seoul (South Korea).[9][10] At the same time he is sometimes referred to as the famous ‘runner up’, having been a finalist at many competitions including three times at the UK B-boy Championships. In recent years, Hong10 has served in the Korean Army right after the prestigious RedBull BC One Moscow 2011. And at the Battle bled he lost against Bboy Finger ( France ) Although his army time restricted his time to go overseas to competitions, time to time, he acted as a judge for many local tournaments and sometimes even compete if they are within South Korea. After completed his military service he came back to the bboy scene, won the Red Bull BC One title in 2013.
B-Girl Terra
B-Girl Terra, born on October 27, 2007, in England under the Scorpio star sign, showed a prodigious talent in breakdancing from a very young age. By the time she was one and a half years old, she was already able to hold a handstand, and she began breakdancing at the tender age of two. Her father, recognizing her potential early on, began teaching her dance choreography, crafting the foundation for what would soon become a remarkable career in breakdancing.
Breakthrough and Achievements:
Terra’s breakdancing skills quickly catapulted her into the limelight. In 2012, at just six years old, she won the Unvisti Baby Battle, an international competition that marked the beginning of her journey to stardom. Her exceptional performance continued, earning her widespread recognition at the 2013 Chelles Battle Pro. By this time, her unique abilities had captivated audiences globally, establishing her as a formidable competitor in the breakdance community.
Professional Associations and Recognition:
Further solidifying her place in the dance world, Terra became a member of the SoulMavericks, a dance crew, in 2013. This affiliation provided her with further opportunities to showcase her skills and collaborate with other talented dancers. Terra’s talent also garnered media attention beyond the dance community; in 2015, she demonstrated her breakdancing on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, linking her to the broader spectrum of entertainment and exposing her to a wider audience.
Personal Life and Influence:
Despite her global accomplishments, Terra remains connected to her roots in England. Supported by her family, especially her father, who has been instrumental in her training and career, Terra has also excelled in multiple UK-based competitions. Her journey from a dancing toddler to a teenage sensation continues to inspire many, illustrating the profound impact of nurturing talent from a young age. Terra’s story is not just about breakdancing prowess but also about familial support and personal dedication, which have been key to her success.
Taisuke
Taisuke Nonaka was born in Sasebo city, Japan. Known as B-Boy Taisuke in the breaking scene, he now lives in the city of Kawasaki and is a member of The Floorriorz crew and Red Bull BC One All Stars.
Taisuke started breaking in 1998 at the age of seven years old. At the time, he had already been dancing for a year, but was inspired to start breaking when a friend showed him some windmills. Surprised and impressed by seeing the power move, Taisuke decided to also take up breaking and hasn’t looked back since.
Taisuke is always calm, cool and collected whenever he steps onto the dance floor, before unleashing the explosively, rhythmic style that he has developed and become famous for.
When creating his moves, Taisuke always tries to invent things he doesn’t see other breakers doing, and trains hard to make difficult moves look effortless and easy. Two signature moves that Taisuke is known for is one he calls Def Air, and another involving him back flipping into a one-handed freeze. Def Air (also known as a ‘critical’ in breaking) is a move that starts like a flare, but where Taisuke uses his hands to propel his whole body into a horizontal 180-degree spin, he hits the move multiple times by exploding into another spin as soon as he catches his body on his hands again.
His back-flip-to-one-hand freeze is a display of how Taisuke makes things look effortless, somersaulting backwards and catching his body easily, as if time slows down for him, in the one-handed freeze known in breaking as an ‘air baby’.
Taisuke has been fearlessly competing against the best breakers on the planet since he was a kid, and has a long list of solo and crew battle wins that include the 2011 R-16 solo championship in Seoul, South Korea; Battle of the Year World Finals with his crew, The Floorriorz, in 2015, 2016 and 2017; and also winning the 2019 and 2020 crew battle at BBIC, in Bucheon City, South Korea. Taisuke is also proud of achieving runner-up at the 2008 and 2014 Red Bull BC One World Finals.
With years of experience on the international breaking scene now under his belt, Taisuke is working to help support the scene in his home country of Japan, wanting to create more opportunities for Japanese B-Boys and B-Girls. He is also a director of a general incorporated association called Urban Sport and Culture Community, through which he organises events.
Being a B-Boy has been Taisuke’s lifestyle from the minute he first started breaking, and his passion for the dance has always driven him to achieve more things in his life. Breaking has also instilled in Taisuke the mindset of always being a student and knowing that if he wants to manifest something in his future, just like achieving something in breaking, it’s about putting in 100 percent effort towards that goal. Taisuke is also still driven to one day win the Red Bull BC One World Finals.
Mounir
Mounir from the Vagabonds crew is the Red Bull BC One Champion of 2012. Up to the present day, he’s the only B-Boy that won the whole competition by winning a regional cypher, a regional final and then the world final.
Mounir is part of the French crew Vagabonds who won Battle of the Year three times and runs the project HWE, which is all about conditioning, coaching and breaking.
Ronnie
Ronnie grew up in Guam, copying MTV dance moves. In 1993, he moved to California where his cousins taught him about breaking, hip-hop culture, and the foundations of the dance.
Ronnie credits his brother and B-Boy Ivan for his start in breaking. Ivan mentored Ronnie when he moved to Las Vegas to train with Full Force. Today, Ronnie is still a member of Full Force, Full Force Crew, Super Cr3w, and the Red Bull BC One All Stars.
With Super Cr3w, Ronnie won the 2008 season of “America’s Best Dance Crew.” The win brought Ronnie and his crew massive mainstream recognition, and since then, Super Cr3w has performed at major events, including at the White House in 2010. Ronnie is also one of the first breakers to get a major sponsorship deal, continually building a multi-layered career as a competitive b-boy and dancer.
With his signature threads and freezes, Ronnie won the 2007 Red Bull BC One World Final in South Africa, a monumental win that was also documented in Turn it Loose. In 2000, Ronnie and Full Force won the Las Vegas Concrete Soul competition, defeating the legendary Texas Havikoro crew. Ronnie also won the 2016 UK B-Boy Championships crew battle with Red Bull BC One All Stars – a big moment for him after years of wanting to compete at the event.
Ronnie has put his heart and soul into dance. He’s the co-owner of Distrct Arts, his dance studio in Las Vegas, where he’s driven to continue building for the next generation of dancers. He organizes events and over the years, has put on qualification battles for the UK B-Boy Championships, R16 in South Korea, Battle of the Year, and Freestyle Sessions in California. Ronnie also wants to have longevity as a competitive B-Boy, break boundaries and set even more standards in breaking.
Thesis
Thias Kem Lopez aka THESIS began B-Boying 9 years ago at the young age of 8. He reflects, “Hip Hop is the first thing I can remember. Introduced at a very young age, I saw it as a break from all the bullshit in life. Even then, I saw freedom in it and I took it cause it just made sense to me.”
While not every parent is encouraging when a child’s unique ambition is to become a professional B-Boy, THESIS is grateful to have major support from his mother and stepfather. He admits, “Without them I really wouldn’t be where I’m at today.” When he was 9, his mother gave him the name “THESIS”. He explains, “Thesis = proving a point…Do the math!” He doesn’t really like math…
Since 2005, he has been taking titles everywhere from his birthplace in TUCSON, AZ to The Netherlands to his hometown of Seattle, WA. THESIS appears on battle DVDs such as B-Boy Ho-Down 2006 and IBE 2008 and he, along with his crew TheM Team, are sponsored by clothing company Mash Hall.
While he works full time as a B-Boy, THESIS enjoys critical writing and is interested in learning to DJ but has never really taken the time to learn. Very experimental with movement, he has also been a house dancer for a long time and dancing as well as Capoiera in an effort to incorporate them into his B-Boying and complete his style.
On the battlefield, THESIS explains, being well rounded and using that quality wisely, are important ingredients to win. Maintaining his stamina and having fun when battling is essential for him. He describes his battle strategy as, “Just play your own game and win it.” He focuses on not allowing his opponents to try to defeat him psychologically (He’s taking sociology next quarter).
El Nino
Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, with Dominican and Puerto Rican roots, Alexander Raimon Diaz, aka El Nino, is a member of Floor Lords and Squadron crew.
He started dancing in 1996 and took his B-Boy name from the 1997-98 El Niño worldwide weather event. But his crew and family were the ones who got him started in breaking, with most of the men in his family being B-Boys.
El Nino’s two main mentors and teachers were B-Boy Leanskee and B-Boy Float, and he describes his breaking style as being well rounded, explosive and revolving around consistent flow.
El Nino is proud of winning the 2002 Red Bull Lords of the Floor competition, being the 2013 Freestyle Session solo champion and winning the 2018 BIS competition. He’s also competed at two Red Bull BC One World Finals, in 2011 and 2015.
“Once a B-Boy, always a B-Boy,” says El Nino, who’s also working towards being a hip-hop professor at a university.
Wing
Born and raised in South Korea, HeonWoo Kim aka B-Boy Wing, is a member of Jinjo crew, 7 Commandoz and Red Bull BC One All Stars.
One of the most successful South Korean B-Boys on the international scene, Wing started breaking in 1999, when he was 11 years old, following in his older brother, B-Boy Skim’s, footsteps, who was already breaking at the time. Wing learned from Skim, and his brother has always been a big influence in his life.
With a fluid, intricate flow to his style, Wing strives to be artistically creative when creating his breaking moves and combinations, having worked hard for years to be able to display his breaking with clean, flawless precision.
Two signature moves that Wing is known for are his ‘Wing-mill,’ and 2000 (two thousand). His ‘Wing-mill’ is his originally-created variation on the power move of windmills, where he does the move while tucked in a ball shape, and holding both his feet.
A 2000 is a breaking move that involves spinning upside down on one hand, while in a straight pencil shape, with the second hand supporting the spinning hand’s wrist. Wing is known worldwide for his superhuman ability to execute his 2000 with unbelievable, explosive speed, and to always hit a high number of upside down, spinning rotations when he does it.
His name represents the fact that he is a high-flying B-Boy who’s light on his feet, Wing seems to always have endless stamina when battling, and he steps into every competition with an air of stoic confidence. No stranger to putting his hard-earned breaking skills to the test, he has competed against the best in the world, at all the biggest competitions on the scene, coming away with multiple championship titles over the years.
Wing’s proudest two victories are winning the 2008 Red Bull BC One World Finals in Paris, France, and winning the 2018 Battle of the Year World Finals with his crew, Jinjo, in Montpellier, France. His long list of extensive competition wins also includes victories at the 2012 UK B-Boy Championships in London, England, 2017 Silverback Championships in Philadelphia, USA, and also winning the 2011, 2015 and 2018 Freestyle Sessions competition in Los Angeles, USA, each time with one of his three different crews.
Wing also has years of experience as a professional performer, having created and performed showcases with Jinjo crew all around the world, including at the International hip-hop festival Breakin Convention in London, England.
Over his years of breaking, Wing has travelled the world and gained knowledge from some of the greatest breakers on the planet. He loves breaking and hip-hop culture, and through it has built a lifestyle and career that has given him national recognition in his home country of South Korea. Always motivated and excited to embrace all the new challenges that breaking brings to him, and with no plans of slowing down, Wing wants to continue evolving within his dance career, and to keep on setting new, higher goals to work towards.
Victor
Victor Montalvo, also known as B-Boy Victor, a Mexican American breaker from Florida, was introduced to the art of breaking by his father and uncle at the young age of six.
His love for the dance form flourished over the years, with the help of the late B-Boy legend Mex One. “MexOne was mentoring me for three months,” Victor says. “He made me believe in myself. He was the main person that really subconsciously put it in my head without me knowing.
He really brought that side out of me. Even after his passing, I still use what he told me till this day.”
Proud of his Mexican roots and Florida home, B-Boy Victor has achieved a lot but keeps striving for more. After winning his first Red Bull BC One World Championship in 2015 – a win Victor describes as his “most important,” he gave his winning belt to his dad – a pioneer in Mexico’s breaking scene.
“I did it for my family. I had a lot of doubts in my mind. My dad was like, ‘I always wanted to be a champion. Come on, you got this.’ After winning it, he was so proud of me. He called me crying. He’s like, ‘Man, I’m so proud’.”
To Victor, style and personality are what matter the most in breaking – his blend of old school moves and new styles. He currently trains to improve his explosiveness and energy for future battles, but believes the soul of breaking isn’t in physical power – it’s in creativity and individuality.
A core member of Squadron crew, MF Kidz, and the Red Bull BC One All Stars, Victor has already earned his bid as a Team USA competitor in 2024, another accolade to add to his notable achievements including being a two-time Red Bull BC One World Champion (2015 and 2022) and the Undisputed World B-Boy Series winner (2015 and 2017).
Kid David
David Shreibman known as “Kid david” started bboying in 2000 after being inspired by the movie Breakin’. Kid david soon took classes offered at a dance studio where his mother taught ballet. With a Ballet and Jazz dancer as a Mom and once professional Pantomime as a Dad, it was hard for David to deny this passion. Dedicated to the art, he left the classes and began practicing on his own.
Only two years later in 2003 Kid david entered the “competitive” scene, winning many regional competitions. His regional reputation grew rapidly as he became recognized as one of the top up and comers in the Bay Area.
With forward momentum In 2007 Kid David stepped on to the international scene Blowing up instantly. Since then he has won, judged and participated in the most prestigous events World Wide. In 2010 Kid David made his move to Hollywood where he reached success very fast. From the LXD, Oscars and TED talks, to Chris Brown and Justin Bieber Kid David has done it all .
Today, Kid david is known for his original style and outstanding musicality. He has a strong foundation based on footwork, glides, freezes and overall finesse. Recognized as one of the most innovative and inspiring Dacners in the world , Kid david continues to prove his skill where ever he goes.
Menno
Menno van Gorp is one of the most accomplished, competitive B-Boys on the breaking scene, having won almost every major solo title there is.
Known on the worldwide breaking scene simply as Menno, he was born and raised in the city of Tilburg in the Netherlands and now lives in Rotterdam. He started breaking in 2001, when he was around the age of 12 years old. At that time in his life breaking was extremely popular among the youth in his hometown, and Menno also had two older cousins that he looked up to, who were both also breaking. With the dance and culture going on all around him, Menno took up the art form as well and has built a career for himself that has surpassed anything he ever imagined he would achieve through the dance of breaking.
A member of Hustle Kidz crew, Def Dogz, and Red Bull BC One All Stars, Menno grew up inspired by famous B-Boys, such as Lego from the USA, Maurizio from Italy, Swift Rock from Germany, and Karim Barouche from France, as well as also finding inspiration from the legendary American crews Skill Methodz and Havikoro.
Menno is respected worldwide for creating one of the most original styles on the breaking scene. This he developed from his unique approach to the dance, in which he always strives to dig deeper into original ways of movement. Through this mindset Menno has created and refined a fluid transitional style of breaking, where he seamlessly flows from one move to the next, and utilises a lot of back rocks (floor moves on his back).
Menno’s unique style has earned him his incredibly long, and impressive, list of solo championship titles.
Menno’s many victories include winning the 2007 UK B-Boy championships in London, England, which he won again for the second time in 2013. Also, in the same year of 2013, he won the solo competitions at Battle of the Year in Germany, and the Unbreakable championships in Belgium. He is also the 2015 R16 solo champion, which he won in Seoul, South Korea, and the 2019 WDSF World Breaking championship, which he won in China. But out of all his solo wins, Mennon is most proud of being a three-time Red Bull BC One World Final champion. He won the prestigious competition for the first time in 2014 in Paris, France, then again in 2017, when it was held in his home country of the Netherlands, in the city of Amsterdam, and for the third time in 2019 in Mumbai, India.
In 2023 he won the WDSF European Continental Championship, in Almeria Spain. Currently he is part of the breakers who are competing for the last spots for Paris’s big moment, later this year.
With an epic career that has seen him rise to the top of the breaking scene through the display of his original style and approach to the dance, Menno is now working to give back to his country, and wants to help bring the international world of breaking to his city.
Breaking and hip-hop have had a massively positive impact and influence on every aspect of Menno’s life, from the friends he has down to the clothes he wears. The dance has given him everything and has also instilled in him a gratitude that now motivates him to help build and progress the dance community he is a part of.
Issei
A member of Foundnation Crew, Issei started breaking at the age of six after a friend took him to an event at a dance studio, in which he still trains today.
Even thought his parents wanted him to quit dancing when he reached secondary school, Issei continued to pursue a career as a B-Boy, and has since won a long list of titles all over the world.
His many wins include being the 2016 Red Bull BC One World Finals Champion, the 2012 and 2013 R16 Solo B-Boy winner, the 2013 IBE Super Solo Battle winner, 2015 Freestyle Session Japan winner, and the 2017 Silverback Open winner.
Issei has a playful yet high-energy power moves-based style. He always expresses the music in a way that makes everything he does look effortless.
Issei loves that he can connect with new people from around the world through his dance, even when they don’t speak the same language as he does. It’s through breaking that he finds he can best express himself and claims that he’s no genius and wasn’t born with a strong physique, but believes that practising can make anyone the best B-Boy in the world.
Pocket
Bboy Pocket was born in South Korea. His father died in an arson incident. He learned to head spin at the age of 5. He is known for his fast power move which is said to be the fastest in the world. Moreover, he had been called a helicopter or a blender due to his fast spin movement.
He appeared in Korean TV shows such as ‘Showdown’ and ‘Street Man Fighter’. He was just 14 when he appeared in IBE Team Battle in 2009 and is the youngest member of Seoul Skillz.
His hobbies include Futsal and watching live broadcasts and games. He has a twitch account where he broadcasts League of Legends. He prefers bright colored shoes when he is breaking. His MBTI is ENFJ and he does not like to eat coriander.His notable moves include the strip windmill where he takes his shirt off during windmill.
– He also has a freeze technique where he covers his head with both arms and brakes after a headspin.
– He uses a technique of tumbling and immediately linking it to a power move where he hook one foot on the of a large t-shirt and switch feet to perform a power move.
– Air track move with one hand &two hands.
Signature Skill & Opposite Movement Training:
Pocket kicks off his impressive routine with a smooth and graceful Windmill Headspin Slow Halo, spinning in mesmerizing motion for a solid 10 seconds. Transitioning seamlessly, he moves into a flawless Headstand, displaying perfect balance and control. Without missing a beat, he effortlessly transitions into the challenging One Headstand and 1990’s Headstand, showcasing his versatility and skill.
Building up the energy, Pocket launches into an impressive Airflare, executing the intricate movements with precision and flair. He flawlessly transitions into the Windmill Backspin, followed by the captivating Opposite Windmill Backspin. Pocket embarks on the Double Hand Airflare, defying gravity with his lightning-fast rotations. Showcasing his agility, he seamlessly transitions into the Halo. He then effortlessly executes the Opposite Halo and Opposite Windmill Halo.
Pocket proceeds to showcase his unique freezes, he revisits the Windmill Headspin Slow Halo. He seamlessly flows into the Windmill Halo, Opposite Windmill Halo, and Opposite Halo. Pocket unleashes the explosive Flare 1990, combining power and precision in a breathtaking display. Without missing a beat, he transitions into the Opposite Windmill Halo and Opposite Airflare, leaving the audience in awe of his control and finesse
These top B-Boys and B-Girls have not only mastered the foundational movements of breakdancing but have also innovated and pushed the art form to new heights. Their dedication to their craft and their ability to combine creativity and athleticism have earned them recognition and respect from their peers and fans around the world.
Each dancer on this list has a unique style and approach to breaking, bringing their own personality and flair to their performances. Whether it’s the power moves of Crazy Legs, the intricate footwork of B-Girl Terra, or the smooth transitions of Storm, each dancer has left a lasting impression on the hip hop community.
Through their hard work and dedication, these B-Boys and B-Girls have become iconic figures in the world of breakdancing, inspiring generations of dancers to strive for excellence and creativity. Their passion for the art form is evident in every move they make, capturing the attention of audiences and judges alike with their skill and artistry.
As we continue to celebrate and elevate the culture of hip hop, we must recognize and honor the contributions of these top 20 B-Boys and B-Girls of all time. Their talent and dedication have helped shape the art form of breakdancing and have inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams of becoming world-class dancers.
