4th day of Crewmas: phone call wishes (living or dead) for We Are Heroes, Phunk Phenom, SGBM & more

The 4th day of Christmas present is 4 calling birds, so the 4th day of Crewmas covers the question: If you had one person to call -- living or dead -- who would it be and what would you talk about? Among the answerers: America's Best Dance Crew alums from We are Heroes, Rhythm City, and Phunk Phenomenon; Elektrolytes, SGBM, 5 Crew Dynasty, Ven 15, New Styles Crew, and PLAGUE. Among the choices: Bruce Lee, 'my cat', Albert Einstein, Jesus, family members, Michael Jackson, and various hotties. 

I applaud HouseofCrews for this ingenious and engaging series! If you missed the beginning of the series, click to watch: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3

Video: Teresa Espinosa (Beat Freaks) workshop - "Girls all Pause"

Teresa Espinosa of Beat Freaks (ABDC Season 3) teaches workshops throughout the year; here's a recent workshop using "Girls all Pause" from Kurupt (ft. Nate Dogg RIP). From Youtube.

NAOTV Episode 6: Bboy Venum

What is up BBDC? This week's episode highlights Bboy Venum of Skill Methodz crew. Not much explanation needed here about why it's dope. Venum's moves speak for themself.

To see more dope videos from this week, check out the playlist here or follow me after the jump.

---Other Dope Videos from This Week---

Mos Wanted Crew-WOD Hawaii 2011-I love this set. They first performed it at WOD Chicago and this time they bring it back much cleaner than before. But the main highlight for me here is Brian Puspos' solo. Great stuff.

"Trigger Fingers"-How could I not post this? Pacman and Moon are among the most brilliant duos to ever collaborate. What takes their already insane tutting to the next level is the way they incorporate the glass table. Amazing.

Top 5 Sets | OUTBREAK 7-StrifeTV compiled their top 5 sets from Outbreak 7 into this video. These dancers are all dope and have great stuff they bring to the table.

Yarus and Loony Boy-Yak Films does it again! This week, they presented us the incredible style known as Electro Dance. These two dancers impressed me with their amazing musicality as well as their intricate yet blazing fast arm threads and connects.

**If you have any submissions for NAOTV, please send them to my account here.**

That's it for this week's episode of NAOTV! Thanks for reading and watching! -NAO

3rd Day of Crewmas: What makes a chicken of Ringmasters, ReQuest, Rhythm City, Elektrolytes, & more

Instead of 3 French Hens, HouseofCrews Youtube brings us 'what makes you a chicken', where members of Ringmasters, ReQuest, Super Galactic Beat Masters, Phunk Phenomenon,  Plague, Elektrolytes, and Ven15 talk about their biggest fears. Before watching, try to guess who is afraid of: Spiders; dogs; wardrobe malfunctions!

Video: Brandon 747 and Emilio (IaMmE) - "Let's Go"

The latest from IaMmE members Brandon 747 and Emilio - dancing to "Let's Go" from Travis Barker (featuring Busta Rhymes). From showoff747 Youtube. Thanks for the link, Chris!

Video: ICONic Boyz dance at Apollo Theater

On December 10, 2011 ICONic Boyz (runners up for America's Best Dance Crew Season 6) danced at Apollo Stars of Tomorrow for an Amateur Night special.  As I recall, Jackson 5 connected with Motown after their Apollo Theater Amateur Night win-- can ICONic Boyz leverage an appearance at the Apollo into something greater?  From Apollotheater Youtube.

Exclusive interviews with John Chu and the LXD at the Steelo 444 Fundraiser

Chris Trondsen interviewed John Chu and LXD at the Steelo 444 fundraiser. John talks about his Scottish roots, how much he is moved by Steelo and the dance family, what's coming up for LXD, Chu's upcoming premium Youtube Channel, his favorite Justin Bieber song, and working on the GI Joe movie.  Madd Chadd robots it up, and the group members talk about how important Steelo is to the dance community, and how they rehearsed for the show. You can still help respect all these dancers by giving a donation to help Steelo at Steelo444.com

Video: 2nd day of Crewmas: Rhythm City, Phunk Phenomenon, Elektrolytes, In da Clutch - Crew romances?

For the second day of Crewmas, House of Crews stitches together interviews from Rhythm City, Phunk Phenomenon, Elektrolytes, and In da Clutch with some dance footage. The big questions: Who's dating within the crew, and who (from any crew) would make a good pair. Find out who they match up with Chachi (IaMmE), Brian Puspos (Architeks, SoReal Cru), Shorty (Beat Freaks), and Kassandra (Phunk Phenomenon).

Letter from Shane Sparks to Dance Community: his side of the story & his plans going forward

The Industry Voice has a letter from Shane Sparks, former America's Best Dance Crew judges who completed jail time for his sentence in having sex with a minor. The letter gives his side of the story and his plans for the future. Please keep an open mind, read the letter, and feel free to comment below:

To the dance industry, peers and fans,
 “Within the last few years of my life I have encountered many difficulties, all while being unable to freely speak and share my side of the story.  The truth of the matter is that when I was in my early twenties, over 17 years ago, I began seeing a young lady who I thought at the time was of age.  She was an employee at (a well known Los Angeles) dance studio, where I was a dance instructor.  My biggest regret and mistake was not making sure that she was over 18 when I began a physical relationship with her.  This young lady’s mother was fully aware and knew that her daughter and I were seeing one another, and consented to the relationship, while leading me to believe that her daughter was older. Nevertheless, I apologize to her and her daughter for any harm I may have caused them.

For a few years now, I’ve had to deal with the public humiliation and personal strife of being condemned by heinous and false accusations.  The case is now over and I was eventually charged and convicted of one count of having sexual relations with a minor, and my punishment was to engage in counseling, which I have already began, and I may have to complete four months in a private jail facility.

After my case was over, TMZ released an inaccurate story stating that there were six other ladies who had been assaulted by me which is completely false.  Statements by my attorney and the prosecuting attorney from the District Attorney’s Office will confirm how false and misleading TMZ’s story was.  I am disappointed and hurt that TMZ would report such a false story without first checking the facts, by contacting the District Attorney’s Office.

Deputy District Attorney: Alison A.W. Meyers wrote a legal statement proving that I was cleared of TMZ’s accusations stating that other minors came forward as victims.

“While the case was pending against Mr. Sparks, no other chargeable victims ever came forward to discuss with me any allegations of the defendant having (sexual encounters) with them when they were underage.” - DDA Alison A.W. Meyers

I am taking all the necessary steps to move towards a positive path and clear my name so I may be remembered as a man of faith, and a talented dancer/choreographer, and leave behind a legacy my loved one’s can be proud of.  I  can only hope that people will finally hear my side of the story and be forgiving instead of believing false accusations that the media highlights.  I would like to thank my family, friends, and supporters for standing by my side and providing me with their strength during this trying time in my life.  I love you all, and will be forever grateful.”
- Shane Sparks

Video: Dtrix, NigaHiga, Movement Lifestyle & B-boy Morris - "Christmas Swag"

More Christmas goodness from the dance community: D-trix (America's Best Dance Crew judge, Clown Prince) joins Ryan 'NigaHiga' with superb dancing from Movement Lifestyle and B-boy Morris for some "Christmas Swag". From TheDOMINICshow Youtube. Ho Ho Ho.

Exclusive interviews with Beat Freaks at the Steelo 444 Fundraiser

Chris Trondsen interviewed Beat Freaks at the Steelo 444 fundraiser. They talk about what Steelo helped them improve their dance, and their special performance for the night with guests added to the crew. Separately, he talked to Maryss, who shows off her new engagement ring and what what's coming up for Beat Freaks in 2012.

Video: First Day of CrewMas - Rhythm City, Plague, New Styles Crew

HouseofCrews Youtube is holding a 12 days of Crewmas extravaganza. First day: freestyle from members of Rhythm City (America's Best Dance Crew Season 4), Plague, and New Styles Crew. Join us over the next 11 days for the dance holiday countdown

Video: Members of Poreotics, Elektrolytes, Academy of Swag - Triple Threat Workshop

 A Triple Threat workshop was held in November 2011 that featured Can Nguyen from Poreotics, Jay Chris from Academy of Swag, and George Jones from the Elektrolytes. From INTERTWINEFilms Youtube.

Video: Arthur & Geo (Instant Noodles) compete at Outbreak 7

Arthur and Geo of Instant Noodles (ABDC Season 6) competed at Outbreak 7 in Orlando. This video from InstantNoodlesCrew Youtube.  I also recommend you watch StrifeTV's Top 5 sets from Outbreak 7.

Exclusive interview: Instant Noodles at Steelo 444 Fundraiser

Chris Trondsen interviewed Instant Noodles at the Steelo 444 Fundraiser. They talk about their background and love with Steelo, all the dancers coming out for the fundraiser, their careers after ABDC, how to reach them and their dedication to the Stanley Project. 

Exclusive interview: Super Cr3w at Steelo 444 benefit - Steelo, MUS.I.C. & ABDC

Chris Trondsen interviewed Super Cr3w on the red carpet for the Steelo 444 fundraiser. They talk about what Steelo meant to them, how their performance at the fundraiser is different from their usual show, and what it's like performing at MUS.I.C., and how they disappeared in their Ninja act on ABDC.

Video: WilldaBeast (Eclectic Gentlemen & friends - "Hustle Hard"

WilldaBeast (from ABDC's Eclectic Gentlemen), Prince J-Ron (FootworKINGz) and 9 other dancers "Hustle Hard". From FreestyleCulture TV Youtube.

Blowup contest final results - Poreotics wins poll & PerezOverride wins contest!

Almost 1500 votes were cast in our tie-breaker for the ABDC Blowup Contest. Poreotics Night at the Apollo won with 49% of the votes. Click here to see detailed results and rewatch the videos. Congratulations to PerezOverride for picking the video and getting people to support it!

We'll start a new contest in a week or so -- name the Superstars of America's Best Dance Crew Season 7. So please stay tuned!

Exclusive interview: Team iLuminate Steelo 444 benefit - their AGT experience

Chris Trondsen interviewed Team ILuminate at the Steelo 444 fundraiser. They talk about their support for Steelo, their experience on America's Got Talent, and what they'll do next.

Exclusive interview: JabbaWockeeZ red carpet at Steelo 444 benefit - look out for 2012!

Chris Trondsen interviewed JabbaWockeeZ at the Steelo 444 fundraiser. They talk about their experience with Steelo, their performance with Super Cr3w and others to form Superwockeez, and hints about what they're planning for 2012..

Video: Heavy Impact on Shake It Up

Heavy Impact Crew (ABDC Season 5) danced on the holiday episode of Shake It Up. You can watch the entire episode here. Here's a clip of Heavy Impact's performance. Thanks for the clip Hobbit!

Video: Chachi (IaMmE) teaches workshop

Chachi (member of ABDC6 champions IaMmE) taught workshops in Chicago in December 2011. This video captures some Chachi's solos and some top performances from the class. From streetdancesite Youtube. Thanks for the tip, Gail!

Videos: Movement Lifestyle contest - which are your favorites?

Movement Lifestyle held a contest looking for crews to join their upcoming tour. They received 22 entries, and most are creative and well-danced. Click here to watch them all. I can't pick an overall favorite for dance technique, but my pick for choreography is this entry from ATeamLV. Which ones are your favorites? UPDATE: Click here for your favorite to help them win free registration for the tour.

Tell us if you're planning to audition for ABDC Season 7 - LIST OF AUDITIONERS

We've started seeing posts on Facebook, Youtube, and Twitter about crews planning to audition for the next season of America's Best Dance Crew. If you want to announce it and show some videos, leave us a comment or email us at BloggingABDC@gmail.com. No rumors please!! We'll add it to our list here with any Facebook, Twitter, and video links.

These crews have announced plans to audition for ABDC (new names added daily and placed in alphabetical order. And as of Dec. 15, we'll include the date the post was added so you can look for additions to the list)
NOTE: We've listed the crews that we've been told got callbacks, but the list is incomplete and should not be considered comprehensive

• 207 Kr3w 
• 2 Much Dance from Indianapolis - video  (added 1/16) CALLED BACK
•  4 Girls and a Guy, from Phila. (added 1/23) 
• 9-1 Pact, from France - video (added 1/29) CALLED BACK
• Academy of Swag - 2011 HHI  video (added 12/14) CALLED BACK
• Aerstix Side (added 1/18)
• Aftershock (added 1/23)
• Aiim Hiigh Crew (added 12/15) 
• All Natural High - video (added 1/27)
• All Star Crew from Puerto Rico
• Arm Candy (added 1/23) 
• Artistic Drift - video (added 1/29) CALLED BACK
  
• Avengerz Crew (added 1/15)
• Baby-Mation from Japan (added 1/15) CALLED BACK
• Band of Misfits (OK City) - Video (modified 12/21) 
• Bea$tly Phenom - (added 1/28)
• Beatbr8kers - video (added 1/16) 
• Beat Junkeez! - video, audition practice video (modified 1/20)
• Beta 010 -  video (added 1/14) 
• Blank Canvas - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Blazin Starz 
• Block Rockas - video (added 1/28)
• Body Poets - Facebook, Twitter,  Youtube - Video  another video (mod. 1/26) CALLED BACK
• Bootz Crew Youtube Channel - Video  (mod. 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Boyz of Poison (added 1/5)
• Chi-town's Finest Breakers - video (added 12/23) CALLED BACK
• Childz Play (added 1/23)
• Collizion  - Youtube channel, video,  more video (mod. 1/24) CALLED BACK
• Crazy Swag Crew (added 1/18) 
• Crush on Arrival CALLED BACK
• D Code (Canada) (added 1/22) CALLED BACK
• Da Emperoz - video (added 12/12)
• DBA (Triple Threat) - Video, photo from auditions  CALLED BACK
• DeadPool Crew (added 1/31)
• Deadliest Combination (added 1/13) 
• Detroit Danz Zone (DDZ) - video (added 1/31) CALLED BACK
• Devastation Dance Crew (DDC) - video (added 1/28)
• Diamond Kobras (added 12/16) 
• Diamonds in the Rough (note: not confirmed by crew)  video(added 1/13) 
• Diversity (added 1/23)
• Double UP crew - video (added 1/16) 
• DV8 (added 1/23)
• Dynamic Dynasty - video (added 12/12)
• Electrical Fusion
• Elektrolytes (US winners at Hip Hop International) - video  CALLED BACK
• Elemental from Georgia (added 1/23)
• Elevation - Youtube Channel, video,   post-audition video (modified 1/26) CALLED BACK 
• Emperorz (added 1/21)
• Emphamoz Empz (added 1/21) CALLED BACK
• Empire the Crew (formerly Urban Empire Kids) -video, audition video (mod. 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Endo FX Crew (added 12/30) 
• Epic Crew (added 1/31) CALLED BACK
• Fallen Angelz
• Fallen Kingz - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Fatally Unique - video from America's Got Talent (added 1/16) CALLED BACK
• Fever Crew (added 12/28)
• Finesse Crew - Youtube Channel
• FireQueenz 
• Flavahz - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Flirt Dancers -  video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Floorteenth Street - video  (added 1/31)
• Fly High Crew (added 1/23) 
• Fortissimo Crew (added 1/25)
• Full Force Dance Company - video from HHI - news story (mod. 1/18)
• Fully Focused - video (added 1/23)
• Funk Beyond Control (FBC) - video from HHI (2nd place Varsity) (added 1/24) CALLED BACK
• Funkdation Crew, auditioning in Houston - video (added 1/14) CALLED BACK
• Fynul Destination - Video 
• G Crew (added 12/17)
• Generation X, auditioned in NY - video (added 1/22) CALLED BACK
• Ghost Crew, auditioned in Houston (1/15)
• GX Dance Crew from TX - video (added 12/22)
• Goodfellas Crew - new video (mod. 1/23) CALLED BACK
• GOP Girls - Video
• GX Crew (Houston)  (added 12/24)
• HeartBeatz 
• Heart Stopperz (added 2/1)
• Heart TriX Squad
• ICONic Girlz- video (added 12/23) CALLED BACK
• Illmatic Force (from NJ) - video (added 12/17) 
• Illmatik Phlow - video  CALLED BACK (revised 1/1) 
• Imperial Dynasty, from NJ (added 1/21) 
• Instant Bun from Australia - video from finals of Australia's Got Talent (added 1/29) CALLED BACK
• Irratik, from Canada - video (modified 1/23) CALLED BACK
• Iron Bred Kidz - video (added 1/17)
• Jungle Boogie (alum from ABDC5) (added 1/16)CALLED BACK
• In Da Clutch - video (added 1/16)
• Katalyst Dance Movement - Video 
• KG Dynasty - video (modified 1/25) 
• khz crew 
• Kid Kingdom (added 1/29)
• Kid Rhythm (added 1/23)
• Kingdom Crew - audition video (modified 1/10)
• Knucklehead Zoo - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Kre8v (Chicago auditions) - (added 1/13) 
• Krush on Arrival from LA (added 1/24)
• Legacy All-stars (added 1/18)
• Lil Phunk - video (modified 1/23) CALLED BACK
• Little Ones (added 1/23)
• M.B.C. - video (added 12/25)
• Marvel Inc. - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Massive Movement (added 1/16)
• Melodic Nocturne Dance Tribe - video (added 1/11) 
• Metamorphoz from France  - video (added 1/23) CALLED BACK
• MID Crew 
• Miniotics - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• Misfits (added 1/28)
• MixitUp Crew from Louisiana, auditioned in Houston (added 1/15)
• Mixtape Crew from Puerto Rico (added 12/22) CALLED BACK
• Mix'd Elements 2.0 - video (added 12/23) CALLED BACK
• MOMZ N Da Hood - video (added 12/12)
• Monster Squad - video (modified 1/19)
• Muse Dance Crew (added 2/5)
• MVP7 - audition video (added 1/28)
• Natural State (added 1/29)
• Neon (added 1/29)
• Nkognito (in Chicago) - video (added 12/17)
•  Nu Groove from Vancouver (added 1/23) CALLED BACK
• Oasis (added 1/23) 
• Persona Dance Crew, Facebook,  audition video (added 1/31)
• Physical Poets - video (added 1/31)
• Plague (British crew, winners of Hip Hop International - Video (added 1/24)
• Point Blank - video dance reel (added 1/8) 
• Praise Team from Canada - video (added 1/24)
• Precious Kidz (added 1/23)
• Preconceived Notion from Austin, TX - video (added 1/11) CALLED BACK
• Prototype (added 1/23)
• Puzzle Peace Crew - video (added 1/5) 
• RNG - Latest concept video, Youtube channel  CALLED BACK
• Roast Beast Facebook ,Youtube (founded by Neyon:Royal Flush ABDC5) (mod. 12/26) CALLED BACK
• Robot Legacy (added 12/15)
• RockStarz (added 12/15) 
• Rockwell Family - video (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• R'sin (added 1/15)
• S.H.M.O.B Squad- Youtube, video (mod 1/31) CALLED BACK
• Show Off Dolls (added 1/29) CALLED BACK
• Skittleheadz 2012 (added 1/11) CALLED BACK
• Skool Rascals (members of Acad. of Hype, Acad. of Villains, Swagg, + others (added 1/28) CALLED BACK
• S.O.S. (Surviving on Sound)  - video and crew trailer video (modified 1/5) CALLED BACK
• So Random Impact (NJ) (added 12/17) 
• STACKed 
• Stepboys (one of Dtrix's ex-crews) (added 1/28)  CALLED BACK
• Stereo Beat Crew  from Puerto Rico- Video (mod. 2/6) CALLED BACK
• Stereo Junkies - Facebook, Twitter,  video (mod. 1/20) CALLED BACK
• Stereography Crew (added 12/20) 
• Street Kingdom (ABDC6 alum) - video (added 1/29) CALLED BACK
• Stryke Force - video (added 1/20) CALLED BACK
• Suede Laces Crew (Orlando) (Added 12/16) CALLED BACK
• Supreme Flow (added 12/28)
• Supreme Team (added 1/31)
• Swagg Crew (added 1/28)
• Swagger Gurlz
• Swag Sistas (added 12/17)
• T Squad (added 1/31)
• The Midas Touch (aka TMT) - video (added 1/23) CALLED BACK  
• Third Dimension (added 1/31)
• T.O.Y.S. (Turn on Your Soul) - auditioning in NY - video  & video & more video (mod. 1/3)
• TrafficJam Krew  - video (modified 1/20)
• Transformers (added 1/23)
• Ultra Freaks (added 12/29)
• Unique Freaks (added 12/15)
• United Beats (added 1/23) 
• Urban Academy (added 1/28)
• Urban Dance Alliance - video (added 1/23) CALLED BACK
• Urban Image Dance Crew (from TX) - video (added 1/2)
• V.H.I.T.L Crew (Village Hidden in the Lightning) - video of some members (added 12/26)
• ViZion - Facebook, Twitter - video (mod. 1/28)
• Wild Style (added 1/16) CALLED BACK
• Wrecking Clowns crew from Billings, MT - news video (added 1/12) 
• WRT - video (added 1/23) CALLED BACK
• Young Justice Crew - Youtube Channel  (added 12/16)
• Young Motion (added 12/15)
• Young Swag Kids (added 12/15)

Video: Interview with Moon & Emilio (IaMmE), Jet Li & Dumbo (Poreotics)

Chris Trondsen interviews Moon  and Emilio (IaMmE) and Jet Li and Dumbo (Poreotics) at the Steelo 44 Fundraiser. They talk about the possibility of an IaMmE/Poreotics collaboration, their admiration for Steelo, their busy tour schedules, Step 4 taping, and other video and public appearances. and how to follow them on Twitter.  

Video: Collab between 2 Choreo Cookies and SGBM members - "Tightrope"

Chris Martin (Choreo Cookies) and Yukio Nakamura (Super Galactic Beat Manipulators) team up to dance Janelle Monae's "Tightrope". From YNCAYNJP Youtube.

DirtfaceX's review on Steelo 444 Fundraiser, w/ red carpet interview video of dozens of hiphop dance stars!

On December 6, 2011, the friends and family of Richard “Steelo” Vazquez held a historical fundraiser in support for their loved one in need. Steelo had suffered from a ruptured brain aneurysm back in June, and miraculously endured a total of three hemorrhages. This unprecedented night brought together some of the biggest names in dance featuring performances by The SUPERwockeez, The Beat Freaks, Team iLuminate, The LXD, B-boy Cloud, Twitch, and many others. All proceeds from the show went to the Vazquez family to aid in their medical bills. I was fortunate enough to attend this amazing show, and I must say... it was truly a once in a lifetime event. CLICK HERE to read more about my experiences at the show including some of great talents I met, and reviews of the performances. 

This video has clips of red carpet interviews with dozens of dancers (including many from ABDC) who came out to perform or attend the fundraiser, including JabbaWockeeZ, Super Cr3w, Beat Freaks, the LXD, Team iLuminate, Instant Noodles, Nigel Lithgoe, John Chu, and Affion Crockett.


If you want to learn more about Steelo and keep updated on his condition- including a soon to be released documentary shot during the event- visit Steelo444.com

Video: Pacman and Moon (IaMmE) tut-battle it out

Phillip 'Pacman' Chbeeb and Di 'Moon' Zhang (from America's Best Dance Crew Season 6 winners IaMmE) are back with another brain-banger - "Trigger Fingers". From Pacman Youtube.

NAOTV Episode 5-Meet The Bootz Crew

What up y'all? This week's episode features The Bootz Crew, which is composed of Sarah Margozzi, Danielle Carreon, Ysabelle "Lil Bigz" Capitule, Natalie Krikland, and Miguelina Manriquez. The group will be one of many auditioners for the seventh season of ABDC. Here is their submission for mL's theTOUR Video Contest, choreographed by Nicole Kirkland.

To see more dope videos from this week, check out the playlist here (in case you missed them, since they have been posted on the site already.)

**If you have any submissions for NAOTV, please send them to my account here.**

That's it for this week's episode of NAOTV! Thanks for reading and watching! -NAO

Vote in our Blowup Tie-breaker: favorite ABDC alum video from BEFORE their ABDC Season

Three people -- Jai, JabbaJake, and PerezOverride -- tied for first place in our ABDC Blowup contest. To break the tie, we threw down the following challenge to them:  send your favorite video of an ABDC crew member (dancing alone or with any group) from BEFORE their ABDC season. 

Now it's your turn to decide: Vote in this survey for your favorite of the three (shown just below the survey). The survey closes at midnight Monday December 12.

poll by twiigs.com

----------------------------------------------------------------
Here are the choices (shown in chronological order):
Option A: Kevin Brewer (JabbaWockeez member) Freestyle from November 2005
 
Option B: Poreotics Night at the Apollo, from April 2008

Option C: ReQuest "Haters" from November 2010
 

Recent videos from The Rockwell Family

The Rockwell Family (winners of 2011 World of Dance New York) are a crew to watch for, and I hope they're auditioning for the next ABDC season. Here's two recent videos of 2011 performances that show their skill and range.

New video from Beat Ya Feet Kings

Not a lot of information available about this video, but I think it shows the full Beat Ya Feet Kings family in a workshop. They still have the energy and originality that got them a spot on ABDC. From joseafootz Youtube.

Video: Trenton Tabak choreography out of SoReal Studios (with a SoReal alum)

Trenton Tabak is a 17-year old dancer and choreographer out of SoReal Studios and a director for Homegrown, a crew out of that Studio. This video shows some of his choreography and includes Jackie Lautchang, an alum of ABDC2's SoReal Cru.  I continue to be impressed by some of the talent emerging from the Houston studio and hope Tabak and others audition for next season's show! From Youtube.

Video: Chris Brown and Bboy battle in Hollywood

From TMZ: Chris Brown and his dance crew took the stage at Beacher's Madhouse in Hollywood in December 2011, staging an impromptu battle.

Video: Mark (Architeks) & Kyle (Riot Squad) - "Lingerie"

From Soundbox Studio in Houston, Mark Fucanan of Architeks choreographed these smooth moves, danced with Kyle Buenconsejo of Riot Squad. Hoping to see more major talent come out of the Houston auditions for ABDC next month! FromCatchmeiFuCanan Youtube.

Videos: The Bridge Competition 2011 - Instant Noodles, Choreo Cookies & some winners

At the 2011 Bridge Competition held on December 3, the winners were: 1st place - GRV; 2nd place - Barkada Modern; 3rd place - Common Ground.  We haven't found video yet for GRV, but here's the Instant Noodles performance. Click here to watch the work from Choreo Cookies, Barkada Modern, and Common Ground (no video found yet for GRV's performance here). 

Video: IaMmE members dancing on the Queen Mary

We're on a boat -- specifically the Queen Mary -- with Moon, Emilio, Jaja and 747 (ABDC6 winners). From WORLDOFDANCETOUR Youtube

Video: Vinh Nguyen - "Lotus Flower Bomb"

Here's the newest video from the Youtube Channel of Vinh Nguyen, director of SGBM and cast member of Jabbawockeez' Mus.I.C. show. Check it out:

Answer to ABDC Blowup Week 8 and a challenge tie-breaker announcement

Thanks to all of you who entered our last week of the Return of the ABDC Blowup Contest. The mystery crew was Jungle Boogie. The clue: "Crank that Soulja Boy" alluded to cranking, their signature dance style. Here's the original blowup:

Here's the full photo, from the Lil Wayne Challenge:

Three people -- Jai, JabbaJake, and PerezOverride -- are tied for first place. Their tie-breaker: send ABDCContest@gmail.com your favorite video of an ABDC crew member (dancing alone or with any group) from BEFORE their ABDC season. Please send it by midnight December 8. I'll post all three on December 9, and let people vote for their favorites. The top vote getter wins the prize.

More Prelude EC videos:The winning crews - Concept Artists, Midas Touch, UFP

The three top crews competing at Prelude EC on December 3, 2011 were: Winners - Concept Artists; 2nd place - Midas Touch; 3rd place - UFP. I hope all these crews are auditioning for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7 -- we need the East Coast represented! Videos from RhythmAddictsTV Youtube. Click here to watch the winning performances from Midas Touch and UFP.

Prelude EC videos: Exhibition performances by Static Noyze, Phunk Phenomenon, ICONic Boyz & Girls

Prelude EC was held on December 3, 2011 in New Jersey. Some of the exhibition highlights -- a performance by Static Noyze (including members of  the ABDC crew) and a collabo between members of ABDC6's Phunk Phenomenon and ICONic Boyz along with ICONic Girlsz). Thanks for the links Emo!

More on ABDC7 auditions: crew size, crew member ages, audition routine specs

We received many questions on the America's Best Dance Crew Season 7 auditions. As posted earlier, there auditions will be held in January 2012 in Houston, Chicago, New York and Los Angeles (specific locations to be announced soon) and you can sign up at abdccasting.com. Some info from the FAQs on that site:

• ALL ages are invited to audition -- no minimum age
• Crews should have 5-7 members. If you want to audition with more,contact 1-855-777-ABDC or abdc@mtv.com
• Audition routines should be no longer than 1:30
• You can dance to any type of music
• If you are picked for a call-back, you may be given a challenge or need to come up with a new routine on short notice

Video: Nikodemus (Machine Gone Funk) popping

Nikodemus (member of Machine Gone Funk) goes solo in this video, demonstrating both classic and original popping with an admirable clean style. From Nikodemus Youtube

Video: RNG & CollectiveUTH Seattle - "Butterflies"

Some of our readers have been very excited by RNG and rooting for them to be chosen for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7. Here's a RNG collaboration with CollectiveUth Seattle. What do you think? You can see more of their work at RNGDancers Youtube.

Video: Jun Quemado (feat. Ian Eastwood) - "Half Time"

Here's the newest upload from Jun Quemado's official Youtube Channel. The video was taken from Jun & Ian's workshop in Chicago. Check it out:

Watch "Mobbed" dance segments here with members of Fanny Pak, AIM, Blueprint Cru, SYTYCD, Femme 5

"Mobbed" is a Fox series that is co-directed and choreographed by Napoleon and Tabitha D'umo. It features very emotional plots of people trying to dramatize major life events (marriage proposals, pregnancy announcements, reveal of birth parentage) via flash mobs, as well as exposition on how to use flash mobs to make the occasion even more fraught with emotion and drama. Many of you will want to skip past the tears and staged drama (not to mention the ads) to get straight to the dancing. You're in luck, we watch it all for you!

The latest episode involved an 'accomplice' named Ion trying to make up to 'marks' (also his daughter and wife) for abandoning them with a flash mob apology. Really. The professional dancers include alums of America's Best Dance Crew: most members of Fanny Pak, plus members of Blueprint Cru, Femme 5, and Artistry in Motion. There are also alums from So You Think You Can Dance including Neil Haskell, Jason Glover and Lauren Gotlieb. So, if you want the full episode, click here. Here are the two full dance sequences.

Video: Parris (ReQuest) & Rie Hata choreo workshop with S**t Kingz

A rare collaboration: Parris (ABDC6 ReQuest) and Rie Hata held a workshop in Japan for BoogieZone and the Beat Box Street Dance Studio. Among the dancers: S**t Kingz. From BGPOPA Youtube.

NAOTV Episode 4: Astro Breaks the Universe

Is that Michael Jackson...bboying? Nope! It's B-boy Astro, as he stars in the latest production of JuBa Films: "Da Capo". His bboy skills mixed with the filmmaking genius of JuBa results in one of the most beautiful dance videos of the year. See for yourself:

BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE! As usual, it was another great week in dance. Check out these dope videos below (or in the playlist here).

---Other Dope Videos from This Week---

David Truong-"Slow Dance"-The David half of Houston's famous Truongs is back again, with a video of his choreo to Keri Hilson's "Slow Dance". He shows us a different side of his choreographing abilities by dancing to a slow jam. Dope stuff.

Mike Song-"Lights (Shook Remix)"-Mike Song never disappoints with his choreography, and this video is no exception. Another song with a slower tempo (guess this was a slow jam kinda week). Joining him are fellow KM6 members Yuri Tag and Cindy Minowa.

World Of Dance Chicago-Sikat-It's always impressive when a crew is really clean and really high energy at the same time. These guys definitely deserved first place at WOD Chicago. They have been drawing a lot of comparisons to GRV, which is a great honor.

Red Bull BC One-Neguin vs Roxrite-How could I not include a video from Red Bull this week? In one of the closest battles of the night, eventual champion Roxrite knocked out 2010 champion Neguin in the semifinals. Roxrite's clean, controlled style and incredible freezes really contrast with Neguin's explosiveness and aerial prowess.

**If you have any submissions for NAOTV, please send them to my account here.**

That's it for this week's episode of NAOTV! Thanks for reading and watching! - NAO

Video: Poreotics' latest show at ElecTRONica

Poreotics (ABDC5 winners) performed again at Disney's ElecTRONica over the Thanksgiving weekend. Here's their latest show, from SoCalDork Youtube.

Video: Tight Eyez (Street Kingdom) in video for Fresh Press Clothing

Tight Eyez (member of  ABDC's Street Kingdom and the creator of krumping) solos in this video promoting Fresh Press Clothing.

Here's the ABDC7 audition schedule!

Season 7 of America's Best Dance Crew will have auditions in 4 cities:
-Chicago, IL: January 13, 2012
-Houston, TX: January 15, 2012
-New York, NY: January 21, with callbacks on January 22, 2012
-Los Angeles, CA: January 28, with callbacks on January 29, 2012


Signup information will be available soon at ABDCCasting.com.  Are you planning to audition this time?

Video: Mike Song, Yuri Tag & Cindy Minowa (Kaba Modern) - "Lights (Shook remix)"

Mike Song choreographs "Lights (Shook Remix)" and dances with Yuri Tag and Cindy Minowa (fellow members of Kaba Modern Legacy).

Video: Chuck (Instant Noodles) & Wildabeast (Eclectic Gentlemen) in Monster Energy Drink Ad

America's Best Dance Crew alums Chuck Maa (Instant Noodles) and Wildebeast Adams (Eclectic Gentlemen) are among the dancers in the new ad for Monster Energy Drink. You can follow Steven Butler, the ad's director/choreographer on Twitter @sjb3000.

Video: Boyz Unlimited - winners of World Supremacy Battlegrounds 2011 Open Division

World Supremacy Battlegrounds is one of the world's largest hip hop dance competitions, held this year in Sydney in November 2011. This year's winner of the Open Division is Boyz Unlimited from the Philippines. Video from iamdennisyin Youtube. Thanks for the tip, PerezOverride!

Video: Rino Nakasone (Beat Freaks) dances with Leehom Wang

Rino Nakasone (alum from ABDC3's Beat Freaks) continues to branch out in new directions. Here she's dancing with Leehom Wang in Taipei.

Video: Taekwondo Shuffle in Korea -- a must-watch

This dancing and taekwondo exhibition leaves me speechless. Thanks for the link, Xerpent!

ABDC Casting office Hotline now open!

The dates and locations for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7 casting have still not been released, but there's a casting office phone line that's just been posted: 1-855-777-ABDC. And the official website -- ABDCCasting.com -- promises that the details will be available shortly. Stay tuned and start practicing!

UPDATE: This is not official, but Art (a commenter here) states that there is a Houston audition on January 15. We'll verify that when we can, but this matches some of the other info we've also  unofficially heard. Thanks Art -- if others have already signed up for auditions, please leave a comment below.

Enter Return of the ABDC Blowups Week 8 now!

Time for the last of our RETURN OF THE ABDC Blowups.  We're bringing back some of our favorite images -- but you'll have to look CLOSELY! In this contest, we've blown up parts of photos from ABDC Seasons 1-6. All images can be found somewhere on MTV.com. Your task: Name that crew. Also -- even if you don't know the answer --let us know if you have a great idea for the tie-breaker!
 
Rules: This contest will go on for several weeks, and the person with the highest cumulative number of answers will win a Tshirt, iTunes certificate or other merchandise of his/her choice, worth up to $30. If there is a tie, we will randomly choose the winner. To make it a little harder, we are disabling the comments for the contest posts. Send your answer to abdccontest@gmail.com; we will NOT confirm whether you have the right answer. Please do not post your answer in on this site or elsewhere -- we want to keep this fair.   Answers for this week's puzzle must be received by midnight December 3,  2011.

This week's clue: "Crank that Soulja Boy!"

World of Dance Chicago: Congratulations Sikat!

Some exciting on-stage and workshop videos are being posted from the 2011 World of Dance Chicago. First focus: competition winners. First prize went to Sikat, second place to Design, and third place to Po.Go Crew. Congratulations -- hope all of you go out for the next season of America's Best Dance Crew! Videos from jacksonlian Youtube. Click here to watch the videos for Design and Po.Go.

The answer to Return of the ABDC Blowup Week 7: Fanny Pak (+ asking for tiebreaker ideas!)

Fanny Pak was the mystery crew in  Week 7 of our Return of the ABDC Blowup Contest. The clue: "Long before Instant Noodles hit the ABDC stage, this crew wanted to be Top Ramen." America's Best Dance Crew changed the name to Fanny Pak, mostly likely because of trademark issues with the Ramen company. (This was Google-searchable, for those readers who started watching ABDC after Season 2.)  And, the photo showed some distinctive glasses:

Here's the full photo, from the first episode of Season 2:

We had 26 entries, and most were correct. Three people are still tied for first. I'll run the final photo tomorrow. If you have ideas for a fun tie-breaker that I can run for this contest (preferably one that can be judged by readers!), please leave a comment below.

Videos: Waackfest 2011 - Voguing Basics and Top 15 Showcase

FunkdupTV Youtube posted a playlist from the Waackfest 2011 held in Los Angeles this month. My favorites from the collection: this 1 on 1 Top 15 Showcase

and this history and demo of the Voguing basics

Videos: JabbaWockeeZ promo and performance at KPOP Masters

JabbaWockeeZ created a new video of dancing and promotion for the KPOP Master show in Las Vegas. And, as ever, fans likeYoseobiebaby Youtube videoed their performance at the event.

Congratulations Roxrite --- 2011 Winner of Red Bull BC One (video)

The final battle for this year's Red Bull BC One was fought between USA's Roxrite and Venezuela's Lil G. Congratulations Roxrite!

Video: Phillip 'Pacman' Chbeeb Solo at I.aM.Phunk'tion

One more video from I.aM.Phunk'tion: HouseofCrews has a close-up of the solo from Phillip 'Pacman' Chbeeb (IaMmE):

B-boy network: Prime site for dance videos (incl. Super Cr3w, Massive Monkees, Phunk Phenomenon)

One of my favorite sites for finding dance videos has been the BBoyNetwork Youtube Channel. Some 2011 interviews and excerpts relevant to fans of America's Best Dance Crew: 
- The full 7 to Smoke Competition at Urban Movement Philadelphia, won by Bebo (Phunk Phenomenon):


- An overview of Massive Monkees Day:

- Ronnie (Super Cr3w) talking and dancing for a Redbull BC One Allstar Workshop:

NAOTV Episode 3: "Like Mike"

Who's bad? Apparently Bboy Cloud is. In this episode of NAOTV, we're highlighting Cloud's latest film "Like Mike". His tribute to Michael Jackson has some comical results and offers a message for all dancers to hear. Check it out for yourself:

Now don't leave just yet! This was another great week in dance and there are many more videos to watch below (or you can click on this playlist here.)

---Other Dope Videos from This Week---

Rhythmic Damage VI-Beast Coast vs Mighty Zulu Kings-While Battle of the Year was getting a lot of attention last weekend, there were still other jams going on around the world, like Rhythmic Damage VI in Philadelphia. The most intense battle of the night had to be this one, which was filmed by our very own Ninjaboi. After a tiebreak, Mighty Zulu Kings takes a close victory.

BOTY 1 on 1-El Nino vs Vicious Vic-It's Drake vs Bruno Mars! (Again!) In their first meeting, El Nino beat Vicious Victor in the finals of the US Red Bull BC One qualifier to win a spot at the Red Bull BC One competition in Moscow this weekend. Here in the BOTY 1 on 1 semifinals, Victor was out for blood as he sought revenge. He successfully evened up the score in what might become one of bboying's next big rivalries.

Ian Eastwood-"Wanna Be Good"-Ian Eastwood taught this piece at the Pride Workshops this past weekend. He performs the choreo so effortlessly, making it look easy. This is probably one of the best pieces I've seen from him lately. This is also another video filmed by a member of the BBDC community, this time by reader BSG.

Kujo-"Dance to Your Own Music"-This inspirational video was very beautifully shot by StrifeTV. Kujo (Ill-Abilities) stars in this video showcasing his bboy skills. He was born completely deaf in his right ear and has lost most of the hearing in his left ear. And yet he still figures out a way to dance without being able to hear the music. He is amazing and a true inspiration to dancers everywhere.

**If you have any submissions for NAOTV, please send them to my account here.**

That's it for this week's episode of NAOTV! Thanks for reading and watching! -NAO

Video: Jekajane (The Company) - I Just Wanna Love Ya

Jekajane is back with another amazing piece of choreography. This time, assisted by the dancers Ian Eastwood, Pat Cruz, Mike Fal, Shingo, Jun Quemado, and Bionic (Supreme Soul), Jeka was able to film this amazing one-shot video! Subscribe for her other pieces [Here]. Check it out:

Video: Holland Krump Event

While krumping originated in the United States (thanks in large part to Street Kingdom's Tight Eyez), it's been picked up worldwide. Here's a worthy example from the Netherlands:

Mos Wanted Mondays: Jawn Ha & Jun Quemado

Here are two new posts from the "Mos Wanted Mondays" workshop series, hosted every Monday at the Quest Learning Center. These newest videos feature Mos Wanted's very own Jun Quemado & Jawn Ha. Happy Holidays!

Jawn Ha:

Jun Quemado:

Video: Ian Eastwood and Jun Quemado at Pride 4

RhythmAddictsTV uploaded a video of Ian Eastwood and Jun Quemado's showcase at Pride 4. Ian performed his piece to "Love Crimes", followed by Jun performing the choreography from Mos Wanted Crew's "Set It Off" video. They closed out their showcase by performing together to Nasri's "Halftime".

Happy Thanksgiving to all -even the lemurs!

I couldn't find any good Thanksgiving dance videos, but still wanted to wish Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, even the ones who don't celebrate the holiday. To each his own!

Videos: MOBBED dance scene

Napoleon and Tabitha D'umo, B-boys galore (including Legacy from So You Think You Can Dance), and Fanny Pak (America's Best Dance Crew Season 2) were prominent in the November 23, 2011 episode of MOBBED on Fox. I can't link the entire episode for a week, but here are some clips from the preparation and finale

Video: Robotboys Dubstep Tribute

Robotboys won Denmark's World of Talent competition in 2008, and have received international acclaim ever since, with productions like this Dubstep Tribute. Thanks for the tip, BSG!

Video: Boston Reppin'

WORLDOFDANCETOUR recently uploaded a video of Phunk Phenomenon's Jaja and Devin dancing to Drake's "The Motto".

More on Redbull BC One: Lilou (two time champion) dancing and talking about dance

On November 26, the b-boy elite will come together in Moscow to battle for the world's most coveted individual prize ---the Red Bull BC One Championship belt. The event will be webcast live on Red Bull TV (http://www.redbull.tv/Redbulltv), Saturday, November 26, at 8am Pacific/ 11am Eastern.

To gear up for this epic battle, here's an interview with Lilou, the only b-boy who has won the Red Bull BC One title twice, explaining what breakdancing means to him and what it takes to win Red Bull BC One.

News from ABDC6 alums: ReQuest, IaMmE's Moon, Instant Noodles

- Dance Informa talked to ReQuest about ABDC including what it was like to be the only international crew, how the show changed them, their favorite crews from the show, and who on in ReQuest really has red hair

- Asia Pacific Arts interviews Moon from IaMmE after he spoke at a panel called "The ABCs of ABDC" (about Asian Americans and dance). Moon talks about inspirations, brain banging, memorable moments on America's Best Dance Crew, and the impact of ABDC on his career.

-BBoy Network talked to Instant Noodles about their inspirations and how they started dancing.

Video: Movement Lifestyle Tour - "theTour"

It looks like the mL tour is finalized and the locations are locked!

Chicago: February 3-5 2012

Washington DC: February 10-12 2012

Orlando: February 25-26 2012

Houston: March 2-4 2012

Los Angeles: March 23-25 2012

Register now! Just visit The Movement Lifestyle Website!

Enter Return of the ABDC Blowups Week 7 now!

 Back for week 7 of our RETURN OF THE ABDC Blowups.  We're bringing back some of our favorite images -- but you'll have to look CLOSELY! In this contest, we've blown up parts of photos from ABDC Seasons 1-6. All images can be found somewhere on MTV.com. Your task: Name that crew.
 

Rules: This contest will go on for several weeks, and the person with the highest cumulative number of answers will win a Tshirt, iTunes certificate or other merchandise of his/her choice, worth up to $30. If there is a tie, we will randomly choose the winner. To make it a little harder, we are disabling the comments for the contest posts. Send your answer to abdccontest@gmail.com; we will NOT confirm whether you have the right answer. Please do not post your answer in on this site or elsewhere -- we want to keep this fair. If I find that you've posted the answer online, you are permanently disqualified from the contest and banned from all comments. Answers for this week's puzzle must be received by midnight November 26,  2011.

This week's clue is a trivia question: Long before Instant Noodles hit the ABDC stage, this crew wanted to be Top Ramen.

Video: Instant Noodles on the East Coast - performance compilation

Instant Noodles (ABDC6) recently completed a series of performances on the East Coast and created a highlights video. From their instantnoodlescrew Youtube Channel:

Videos from Pride 4 Competition - Congratulations UFP!

Pride 4 Competition was held at Rutgers University on November 19, 2011. The winners were: 1st Place: UFP, 2nd Place: RAPS Dance Troupe; 3rd Place: Project D. Here's UFP's dance from Vinco Youtube.  Thanks for the tip and links, BSG!

Click here to watch the performances from RAPS Dance Troup and Project D.

The answer to Return of the ABDC Blowup Week 6: ICONic

Thanks to everyone who entered Week 6 of our ABDC Blowup Contest. ICONic from ABDC Season 1 was our mystery crew.  Here is the blowup:

 The clue ("no boyz allowed") refers to ICONic Boyz, the Americas' Best Dance Crew under-age group managed by GEO, a member of ICONic.   Here is the original photo, from the Season 1 finale:

We had 30 entries this week, with all of them correct. While there is still a three-way tie - Jai, JabbaJake, and PerezOverride -- several other people are just a little behind. Week 6 of the contest will be posted tomorrow.   Click here for the contest rules.

Video: Maxt Out - Congratulations to Inside the Box (with help from Poreotix, KM Legacy, Choreo Cookies & More)!

At the 2011 Maxt Out, first place in the Major Choreo division was taken by Inside the Box. In that division, a choreographer is able to showcase their work (a full set/routine) with whoever they'd like, so Toy Box decided to round up Inside The Box and a lot of other dancers that he's close to with from different teams and crews, including Breed, Poreotics, Choreo Cookies, Common Ground, Kaba Modern, Team Millennia, The Ivy League, CADC, Pac Modern, Culture Shock LA, Mischief Makers, KM Legacy, Prime D and more. Video from toybox Youtube. You can follow Toy Box on Twitter at @box_toy.

Barkada took first place in the Major Crew division (mostly for collegiate crews). Video from dsouthrotation Youtube.

Video: ICONic Boyz perform at The Grove

ICONic Boyz took the stage at The Grove in Los Angeles in November 2011, introduced by ABDC MC Mario Lopez. 

Video: LMFAO, Quest, Bieber & many more at American Music Awards finale

LMFAO and guest performers (including Quest and Justin Bieber) brought the crowd to its feet as the finale to the 2011 American Music Awards.

Video: Dumbo (Poreotics) with Diamonds in the Rough

Dumbo from Poreotics (ABDC5 winners) performed with Vancouver's Diamonds in the Rough. I wouldn't mind seeing this girl group audition for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7! From PoreoticsHD Youtube.

Video: 2011 Braun Battle of the Year highlights: Congratulations Vagabonds!

At the 2011 Braun Battle of the Year, the Finale came down to Battle Born  (United States)  and Vagabonds (France), with Vagabonds taking the title.  Here are highlights from the event from canalstreetofficiel Youtube: