Let us know if you attend the America's Best Dance Crew auditions!

Auditions for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7 start this weekend with stops in Chicago and Houston. If you go -- as an auditioner, friend, press, or on-looker -- let us know!

Send us your impressions, travel diary, photos, videos, whatever, SO LONG AS IT DOESN'T VIOLATE ANY OF THE MTV AUDITION CONTRACT RULES! You can post links here or email them to BloggingABDC@gmail.com. And, good luck to all auditioners!

Videos: Kolanie Mark's 2 crews vieing for ABDC: RNG at Monsters of Hip Hop; Phyzikal Graffi-T

Many of our most devoted readers are also extremely devoted to the work of Kolanie Marks, choreographer for RNG. He's bringing two groups to the America's Best Dance Crew auditions: RNG and Physikal Graffi-T. Here's recent work from both crews at the recent Monsters of Hip Hop 2012.  If ABDC audition judges liked both, which one do you think they should pick?

Video: JabbaWockeeZ rep Qualcomm at 2012 Consumer Electronics Show

The featured performers at the Qualcomm Keynote presentation at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show were Grover and JabbaWockeeZ. Alas, not together. But here's JabbaWockeeZ; click here for Grover.

Video: Roast Beast intro and sample freestyle -- auditioning crew with ABDC alum from Royal Flush - REVISED!

America's Best Dance Crew is welcoming returning crews for the ABDC Season 7 auditions, so we hope they give a serious second look to  new crews with leaders from prior ABDC seasons. Here's Roast Beast from Atlanta featuring  Tyrone 'Neyon' Foster, a member of ABDC5's Royal Flush Crew. They will be auditioning in Houston on January 15. We hope Roast Beast  has the stuff to make it to Season 7! From ROASTBEAST4 Youtube.

TiVO Alert: Nappytabs, ABDC alums on MOBBED tonight

It's Wednesday night, and another Mobbed is on Fox at 9pm ET/PT. I'm not sure what the plot is, but it again features Napoleon and Tabitha D'umo and some of the better dancers in the LA area. I'm not even sure which ABDC alums appear tonight (the clip is short) but this clip was featured on Fanny Pak's Facebook page. I can forgive Mobbed their theatricality and tendency to mortify people as long as they keep employing good dancers! Update: the show has members of Fanny Pak and Choreo Cookies

Video: Quick Crew | Next - The Weeknd

Here's the latest piece from Norway's amazing dancing trio, Quick. Don't forget to subscribe to their Youtube Channel and support their work!

Video: Nick DeMoura (feat. Ian Eastwood & Jun Quemado) - "Otis"

Fresh from Nick's Youtube Channel, here is the latest piece he has put together, featuring his fellow Skouts, Ian Eastwood and Jun Quemado:

Video: Mike Song dubstep choreo + freestyle - "Promises"

The latest from Mike Song (Kaba Modern Kinjas): a dance to "Promises" (Nero and. Skrillex) showing his dubstep choreo and some freestyle. From Mikeosong Channel

Second chance - Name the ABDC7 superstars contest

If you already entered our contest to predict the musical superstars for America's Best Dance Crew but are having second thoughts, you're in luck! And, if you haven't entered yet -- jump in. You can enter the second week of forecasts now till midnight January 12. The third round won't begin until the auditions are over since scoring will reflect info that might be released during the callbacks. Here are the rules -- just leave a comment below.

Video promo for ICONic Boyz Tour

ICONic Boyz (ABDC6 runners-up) are about to start a nine-city tour. Here's some of what you might expect to see. You can buy tickets here.

Videos: Recap of Juste Debout's 2012 Japan Prelims, from StepxStep Dance

StepXStep Dance is a relatively new website devoted to covering the dance world, with a focus on street hiphop. An example of the coverage you can find -- they've assembled videos from the 2012 Juste Deboute prelims held in Japan on January 5. Visit StepXStep Dance's post for an event description and many showcase and battle videos. A sample is this Judge's Showcase featuring Kei, Caleaf, Niako, and P-Lock

Video: Law (Poreotics) workshop - "That Girl"

Laurence 'Law' Devera of Poreotics (ABDC5 champions) recently taught a workshop at ORG. Video from PoreoticsHD Youtube. And they continue the fan of the month competitions at Poreotics.com -- January's challenge: record yourself dancing in the streets

Dancers and dance crews: opportunity to perform in a music video

We received this message from Li, a music video director in LA who is looking for some dancers for an upcoming music video: "I'm directing a music video for an up and coming singer, Meeghan Henry.The song is called "Crash a Party."  For the video, I'm looking for amazing bboys and dance teams to display their skills - crews and soloists alike...Our shoot date is Sunday, Jan. 22. We are shooting at the exclusive Exchange LA.

I'd love it if you guys could help our production find the best dancers and crews to battle it out in the video. As a former touring dancer, I'd always wanted to make a video that marries great camera work with great dancing.  Above all else, I want this video to be a celebration of all the performers we showcase. I want to invite the best of the best to come out and play with us and be creative for one day. And all footage will be available to crews for reel purposes. Here's a previous video from Li. If you're interested, email him at lilu.913@gmail.com

Videos: Instant Noodles at Full Force 17th Anniversary competition

Full Force Crew celebrated their 17th anniversary on January 7, 2012 with a competition in Las Vegas. Member of Instant Noodles (ABDC6) competed in 2x2 and group matches. Videos from Instantnoodlescrew Youtube

Video: Jaja (IaMmE) freestyle

The members of ABD6's IaMmE continue releasing solo and sub-group videos showing off the many talents of each of the members. Here's Jaja free-styling, from JAJAvankova Youtube.

Hype 5-0: Hazmat's New Channel & Video

Josh 'Hazmat' Ulep has released his newest video on his brand new Youtube channel, HazmatHype. This is only part 1 of this series, so make sure to subscribe for more!

Video Flashback: Poreotics at Rock the Schhol Bells in 2008 -- another reason to give NOW!

Yesterday, we posted about a fundraiser for this year's Rock the School Bells. If you need more reason to give, the organizers want to remind you of great past performances. For the next 12 weeks (leading up to this year's event), Brian Crizaldo's Facebook page will feature a video from past RTSBs that introduced or popularized some of the best dancers around. The first offering: Poreotics at the 2008 Rock the School Bells. Watch the video here, subscribe to RTSB's Facebook page, and -- most important -- give!

Video: Flash mob for "It's about Time" movement - pro dancers need better working conditions and "Respect"

From the website for The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA): dancers and performers and other union leaders, members and supporters joined informational support rallies at Sony Music offices in Beverly Hills, New York City and Miami to show their solidarity for the upcoming negotiations on Jan. 11 and 12 between the Union and the major record labels, including Sony, UMG, Warner, EMI, Disney and most of their subsidiary labels. In Beverly Hills, dozens of members of the Los Angeles dancers’ community concluded their press conference and rally with a “flash mob” performance. The union wants to negotiate for safe, fair working conditions and health care for  dancers and performers who appear in music videos.

Pacific Rim filmed the flash mob in Los Angeles and talked to members of Beat Freaks (ABDC Season 3 runners-up) and other participants.

Video: Chris Martin & BreakEFX

In this first video, Chris Martin is joined by fellow BreakEFX members, Mikey Ruiz & Brandon Douglas, as they perform to "Lotus Flower Bomb":

This second video finds Chris Martin in Europe on the German Dance Workshop Tour, performing to "Ifuleave":

Video: Megan Lawson (Fanny Pak) - "Obsessed"

Matt Cady from ABDC2's Fanny Pak wrote a song for Megan Lawson. In return, she created this dance video. FromMeganguwre Youtube. I love Fanny Pak -- all together, solo, or in subgroups -- more please!

Video from The Takeover with Rhythm City

Rhythm City (ABDC Season 4) helped host The Takeover in December 2011. Here's a highlight video with performances from the crew, the Midas Touch, and DOMO. From HouseofCrews Youtube.

Help teens learn education and social skills through hip hop -- Rock the School Bells need you!

Rock The School Bells (RTSB) is a hip-hop educational youth conference based in the San Francisco Bay Area.  It includes workshops and performances to help students  develop skills and understanding for critical thinking, creativity, communication, and social activism and to encourage them to go for higher education. 

They're trying to raise funds for the next conference. Their target of $15,000 sounds high but is very doable with a little bit of support and some networking. As Brian Crizaldo wrote on RTSB's Facebook page: "You can either spend at least $10 in a movie theater, or you can donate at least $10 to an event that can empower the youth and helps provide scholarships for students majoring in the arts! Please help spread the word!" So please click here and give -- I already did.

NAOTV Episode 9: "Hooligans in SF"

Happy 2012 BBDC! We're starting off the new year in San Francisco, where Ellen Kim filmed her first ever concept video. I like the different settings, including a section where she's vibing out in the subway (or whatever you guys call it in San Fran). Check it out yo'selves!

And since the rest of this week's vids are reposts, if you want to see them, check the playlist here.

**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: Pacman & Millie (IaMmE) - "Exit Strategy"

The latest concept video from IaMmE's Phillip 'PacMan' Chbeeb and Emilio 'Millie' Dosal  is a winner. In "Exit Strategy", two friends have to figure out how to escape from a mysterious room.  From Pacman Youtube.

Video: Jason Croom (Swagger Crew) coaches hiphop on MTV MADE

Many of the teen subjects on MTV's MADE have learned to hiphop dance in order to improve their lives. On a recent episode, Jason Croom from Swagger Crew (ABDC Season 5) coaches Arjun, who yearns to be more than just a perfect student.

JC Chasez: saves a child's life on the beach!

People Magazine reports that America's Best Dance Crew judge JC Chasez "proved himself a hero on New Year's Day on a Miami beach when he saved the life of a 1-year-old girl after a helicopter flying too close to the ground sent an umbrella flying across the sand." The story also reports that JC was "sweet and humble" about his heroism. I've met JC, and  I can't imagine him being any other way. Way to go JC!

Which ABDC alum crews would you like to see return for Season 7?

According to a video from DanceOn Youtube, MTV is encouraging crews who have previously been on America's Best Dance Crew to audition again. This is not entirely new, since Team Millennia appeared in two seasons, and most of Status Quo (Season 1) reincarnated as Legendary Seven (Season 5), but it's a welcome development. Which crews would you like to see return for another shot?

Watch the full episode of MADE, with Beat Freak Bonita as dance coach

MTV's MADE recently aired an episode where Bonita (Beat Freaks) coached a girl in hip hop dance in order to win friends at her new school. The full episode is now available online:

Watch Ellen Kim's first concept video: "Hooligans in SF"

Choreographer/dancer Ellen Kim created her first concept video to display San Francisco and its style of dance, with Krystal Meraz (Academy of Villains), Cj 'Pharside' Jennings (ABDC's Supreme Soul, AOV), Pat Cruz  and Mike Fallorina ( both in The Company). I still wish Ellen Kim's earlier groups (Neverland, L0st Kids) had made it to ABDC! From ellenkimCHEEE Youtube.

TiVO Alert: Nappytabs, ABDC alums on MOBBED tonight

The next episode of Mobbed appears on Fox tonight (January 4, 2012) at 9pm ET/PT. If you're interested, click here for tonight's plot. It clearly features Napoleon and Tabitha D'umo as the choreographers, members of Fanny Pak as featured dancers, and I thought I spotted other ABDC alums in the mix.

Video: Rhythm City members: "Slight Work"

Alonzo 'Zo' Williams, Dominique 'Domo' Rosario, and Cochise 'Phramez' Quinones Jr from ABDC4's Rhythm City show that they've lost none of their swagger with this dance to Wale's "Slight Work". From CallmeZo1 Youtube.

HD video of Quest with LMFAO on ABC-TV New Year's Show

A few days ago, we posted some very grainy videos of LMFAO's appearance on ABC's New Year's Eve special, with Quest Crew (ABDC3) dancing backup. Greg sent a high-quality version as update -- Thanks!

Video: members FootworKINGz, Lady Boogalooz, Stylz Play free-style

FreestyleCultureTV Youtube shows off some amazing footwork from King Charles & Prince Jron (FootworKINGz, ABDC Season 6), Yoda Jones from Lady Boogalooz,, and Comfort Fedoke. 

Reminder: Please let us know if you're auditioning for ABDC or have an upcoming dance event

In 2012, we hope to provide a good base of centralized information about America's Best Dance Crew and about upcoming dance events. So, please leave a message or email us at BloggingBestDanceCrew@gmail.com:
- If you're planning to audition, let us know where your group is from, where you're auditioning, and give us links to Facebook, Youtube, twitter, and any videos you'd like to share
- For an event, give us a link with details on location, dates, and performers (if available) 

Videos: new season of Ireland's Got to Dance

Ireland's Got to Dance just started its new season, and videos are appearing online now. There are a number of hip hop groups in the mix so far, including Lil Hustlers, Erupt & Ffres, A Team, and Kazzum. But my favorite dance team so far is an edgy Riverdance group called Prodijig (ABDC audition judges -- don't get the wrong idea here! You can follow the show at Sky1.

Static Noyze concept videos for Cirque Dreams'

In 2012, members of Static Noyze (ABDC Season 5) will be performing in Cirque Dream's "Pop Goes the Rock". They created two concept videos for the show: an energetic but sweet dance rendition of Madonna's "Like a Prayer", and a sassy "Joe Tex". Schedule and tickets available here. Video from FlyingOrbProductions Youtube.

New contest: Name the Musical Superstars for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7

MTV announced that America's Best Dance Crew Season 7 will again be a "season of the superstar". Who are the musical superstars that will be featured this time? We don't know, but we want to know what you think.  So, here's a contest to let you forecast MTV's picks for the second "Season of the Superstars".  Prize: Tshirt (value up to $30) or $30 iTunes gift card/certificate.  RULES: 

• Pick up to 8 'superstar' performers.  If you pick more, I will only count the first 8 listed
• Two rounds in the contest: the first round of the Contest ends on January 12, 2012 before auditions begin, since MTV often uses the superstars for callbacks and that info will probably be publicized. The second round begins on February 1, 2012 and ends once MTV announces the Superstars (probably some time before  ABDC7 starts).  For the first round (before auditions): every correct pick is worth 2 points (for a possible total of 16 points). For the second round: every superstar used in auditions is worth 1 point, and all other picks are worth 2 points (for a possible total of 12 points).
• List your answers in the comments, or send your answers to ABDCContest@gmail.com. If you list in comments, please make sure you use a distinct name (not "guest" or just a first name).
• Please do not enter more than once a week!
• Please don't enter this if you work for MTV or Viacom
  
• The winner is the person who accurately picked the most superstars featured on ABDC Season 7. If there is a tie, the prize will go to the entry with the earliest entry
• The winner will be announced on this site after I am sure of the correct answer  

Good luck and start guessing!

Video: IammE in New York, with a preview of their next video "Exit Strategy"

Many readers have commented that IaMmE (the winner of last season's America's Best Dance Crew) don't work as a crew much, seeming to prefer working solo or in sub-groups with others. For those readers -- IaMmE released a New Year's greeting video, with some preview footage of their next video -- "Exit Strategy" -- to be released on January 6, 2012. From first appearances -- this one's going to go to the next level.

2011 BBDC Readers' Choice Awards: The Results Are IN!

All the polls are closed and the results are in! Here are the videos that you, the readers, picked as favorites from 2011:

Favorite Performance: StreetQuest-Collaboration 2011

Favorite Battle: Lil G vs. Roxrite-Red Bull BC One 2011

Favorite Video: ReQuest Dance Crew-ReLax

Thanks to everyone who voted! Happy New Year!

Video: Ian Eastwood, Kyle Hanagami, Chachi (IaMmE) - "Sexy and I know it"

Kyle Hanagami collaborated with Ian Eastwood choreographing "Sexy and I Know It" for a workshop at Debbie Reynolds Studios. Among those in attendance: Chachi (IaMmE) and Brandon Dumlao (So You Think You Can Dance). From KyleHanagami Youtube.

Videos: Quest Crew with LMFAO on ABDC's New Year's Eve show:

Quest Crew danced with LMFAO on ABC-TV's New Year's Eve show. There's no high-quality video available, but you can see them dancing with Party Rock Anthem, Sorry for Party Rocking, and Shots (below). Thanks for the links PerezOverride!

Yak Films: Countdown of top 5 Dance Videos of 2011

YakFilms has their own picks of the best dance videos for 2011, based on dance quality, video quality, and music choice. The first video links to the 5 choices as well as separate videos explaining the choices and introducing the artists:
5. Nonstop's "Dreamer/Dubstep"
4. Spike Jonze presents Lil Buck and YoYo Ma
3. Marvin Gofin's "Me, Myself, and I" from Woow Prod
2. "Be Individual" from Juba Films
1. Daniel Cloud Campos - "The Music Box"
Thanks for the tip, PerezOverride!

2011 BBDC Readers' Choice Awards: Favorite Video

Here it is! The final poll of this year's BBDC Readers' Choice Awards. You guys voted, and here are your top four nominees for Favorite Video of 2011:

ReQuest Dance Crew-ReLax

World Order-2012

Unleash Your Fingers

Pumped Up Kicks | Dubstep

poll by twiigs.com

The poll will be open for 24 hours. Results from each poll will be posted tomorrow.

Video: J Blaze (feat. Brian Puspos & Ian Eastwood) - "Swag"

It looks like Johnny "J Blaze" Erasme decided to close out the year with a bang. Straight from his official Youtube Channel, here is his latest video featuring his fellow Kub Skouts, Ian Eastwood & Brian Puspos, as well as Katie Kabili & Amanda Grind:

Vote in DanceOn's Best Dance Video of 2011 poll -- some intriguing choices!

DanceOn is running a poll for best dance video of 2011. The choices are eclectic and the videos' links are a good way to catch any of these highly-viewed/viral videos you missed:  The Muppets - "I've Got Everything That I Need", Big Freedia - "Y'all Get Back Now", Nathan Barnatt - "No Bones" -- an odd instructional video, Sean Bankhead - "Who Run the World", Something Borrowed - "Push It", Non Stop - "Pumped Up Kicks", Footloose Line Dance - "Fake ID",Todrick Hall - "The Bieber",Lady Gaga - HBO Presents "The Monster Ball Tour", Aish.com - "Rosh Hashanah Rock Anthem". Voting ends January 10, 2012

Video: Alien and the Ghetto -- a must watch

Here's some incredible dancing from MOTIONPICTURERHYTHM Youtube: Alien and the Ghetto@ETHEREALSTORY. Found this at Hip Hop International's Facebook page -- do yourself and them a favor and like them today!

2011 BBDC Readers' Choice Awards-Favorite Battle

Your nominations for Favorite Battle are now in. Here are your top 4 battles from 2011:

Roxy vs. Macca-Outbreak 7

UK & Aldo vs. Les Twins-Juste Debout 2011

Lil G vs. Roxrite-Red Bull BC One 2011

Neguin & Al One vs. Morris & James-World B-boy Classic 2011

poll by twiigs.com

Now, in the comments below, I am reopening nominations for Favorite Video. The rules are the same as yesterday, with the added rule that once a video has qualified, none of the dancers in that video may appear in any of the other top 4 nominations for Favorite Video.

So far, only one video has qualified, and that is ReQuest Dance Crew-ReLax.

Nominations close once 3 more videos have qualified or at 1 PM EST.

(World Order-2012-qualified 9:44 PM)

(Unleash Your Fingers-qualified 11:54 PM)

(Pumped Up Kicks|Dubstep-qualified 1:50 AM)

EDIT: The nominations process is officially closed.

NAOTV Episode 8: A Look Back at 2011

With 2012 right around the corner, I decided to use this episode to take a look back at 2011. Let's start with what was probably the most viral dance video of 2011, if not ever: Pumped Up Kicks|Dubstep by Remote Kontrol's Marquese "Nonstop" Scott.

Nonstop is a very talented dancer and the amount of attention this video received was well deserved.

Now let's move onto what I thought were the best things in the hip hop dance community from the past year.

Best Choreographer: Shaun Evaristo-Shaun has had an amazing 2011, which included choreographing a performance for So You Think You Can Dance and the grand opening of the ML Studio.

Best Crew/Company: Choreo Cookies-Once again, the Cookies dominated the competition scene, winning the majority of the competitions they entered.

Best Competition: Body Rock 2011-The level of talent at this competition gets higher and higher every year. 2011 was no exception.The top 3 performances were among my favorite performances from this year.

Best Battler: El Nino-This kid tore up the place, notching big wins at WBC and the US qualifier for Red Bull BC One.

Queens of Swag: Parris Goebel & Rie Hata-Just watch the video. Ridiculous.

Best Choreography Video: Vinh Nguyen "Break Ya Neck"-The crazy closer to SGBM's Body Rock performance combined with a look into the mind of a choreographer makes an amazing video.

Best Choreography: Lyle Beniga "Bait"-I seriously can't stop watching this...help?

Best Commercial: Unleash Your Fingers-Amazing finger tuts and amazing graphics. I want that phone. Big ups to JayFunky.

Best YouTube Channel: YAKfilms-From their dance tutorials, to their coverage of major dance events, to their web series Yak Like Ya Know, to their well produced dance videos, Yak Films offers nearly everything a dance fan would ever want all in one channel.

Best ABDC Performance: Jabbawockeez "Devastating Stereo"-Since this IS a blog about ABDC, I felt compelled to include this category. This performance showcased Jabba at their finest.

Video: Chachi teaches workshop --and ICONic Boyz participate -- at ICON Dance Complex

Chachi Gonzales (member of America's Best Dance Crew 6 champions IaMmE) taught a workshop at ICON Dance Complex on December 29, 2011. This video from RhythmAddictsTV Youtube shows a brief interview with her, her demo of the steps for "Should Have Kissed You", and participants including ABDC6's ICONic Boyz.

Video: Instant Noodles in Jennifer Chung's "Your Year and Happiness"

Instant Noodles (ABDC Season 6) dance in Jennifer Chung's new mixtape video of "Your Year" and "Happiness", two songs on her latest CD. An appropriate mix for the beginning of 2012!  From JenniferJChung Youtube.

Freestyle Culture TV: Go-to site for innovative dance videos

 Freestyle Culture is a company "committed to showcasing the talent and lifestyle in niche cultures." I recently started watching their FreestyleCultureTV Youtube Channel and am impressed at the many featured dancers and choreographers. Here's one of the latest -- "The Motto".

2011 BBDC Readers' Choice Awards-Favorite Performance

Your votes from the preliminary round are in, and here are your top four nominees for Favorite Performance (admittedly, I had to use some creative license when interpreting your votes):

StreetQuest at Collaboration 2011

The Royal Family-HHI 2011

Poreotics 1st Performance-Urban Dance Showcase 2011

Jinjo Crew Showcase-R16 Korea 2011
========================================

poll by twiigs.com

Now, in the comments below, I am reopening nominations for tomorrow's poll, which will be Favorite Battle of 2011. The two battles that have made it to tomorrow's poll are:

Roxy vs. Macca-Outbreak 7

UK & Aldo vs. Les Twins-Juste Debout 2011

(Lil G vs Roxrite-Red Bull BC One 2011-qualified 12:47 EST)

You can now submit up to three new nominations for favorite battle. Once a battle has been nominated three times, it automatically receives a spot on tomorrow's poll. Nominations close whenever two more new battles qualify or at noon EST tomorrow.

Video: Unmasked JabbaWockeeZ dance on "Ima Get It"

Phil 'SB' Tayag (member of America's Best Dance Crew's  JabbaWockeeeZ and a member of KNGDM) issued the music video “I’ma Get It” off the KNGDM’s Goodbye mixtape, assisted by the Bangerz Nick Ngo. JabbaWockeeZ - unmasked -- are the dancers on the video. From thewockeez Youtube, via ChannelAPA.  Thanks for the tip, PerezOverride!

Video: Next Level Squad flexing in New York Subways

Yak Films has a powerful video of Next Level Squad dancing in the New York subways. It's gone viral, probably because the mainstream has a queasy fascination for this dance style.

TiVo Alert: IaMmE on MTV's New Years's Eve show

America's Best Dance Crew Season 6 winners IaMmE have been added to the line-up for MTV's "NYE in NYC" show to air on December 31 (of course). They'll join Demi Lovato, Tyler Posey and the 'house' DJ team of Sunnery James and Ryan Marciano.

Video: Lando Wilkins (Boxcuttuhz) choreo w/ ABDC alums, Ian Eastwood, Jun Quemado & more

Lando Wilkins (Boxcuttuhz, Mos Wanted Crew, Movement Lifestyle) choreographed and dances with "random talented dancers" including Ian Eastwood, Jun Quemado, Joesar Alva (ABDC's Boogie Bots), Pharside Jennings (ABDC2's Supreme Soul, Academy of Villains), Mami Kanemitsu (ABDC's We are Heroes), Aye Hasegawa (Boxcuttuhz), Amanda Grind, Krystal Meraz (Academy of Villains), Knicole Haggins, Terence Dickson (The LXD, and Jonathan Rabon. 

This is the first in a series of videos where dancers will create performances within a day -- rehearsing one day/night and filming the next day to see what can be accomplished in "the heat of the moment". From LandoWilkins Youtube.

Video: Roxy vs. Macca at Outbreak 7 - bgirl battle

Bgirl battles don't often get the attention they deserve. This battle between Roxy vs. Macca was recommended by reader Dance: "Bgirl Roxy is the new bgirl that everyone is talking about. She is setting a new standard for bgirls with her strength... Macca is great also and is definitely a rising star in the breaking world. Macca has won many competitions in the past few years. This video is from Outbreak 7 in Orlando Florida December 10-11...At the end Alieness from Zulu Kings comes out and mops the floor due to all of that sweat and dopeness that Roxy left on the floor haha." Thanks Dance!

Casting Promo video for ABDC7

The promotional casting video for America's Best Dance Crew is striking, even though it focuses on visual arts as much as dancing.  I can't wait to see the ABDC promo from IaMmE! Thanks for the tip, PerezOverride!

Video: DJ Earworm's United State of Pop 2011 - World Go Boom

DJ Earworm just released his 2011 mashup with audios and videos from Adele, Black Eyed Peas, Bruno Mars, Britney Spears, Cee Lo Green,  Enrique Eglesias, Foster the People, Jennifer Lopez, Jeremih, Katy Perry (more KP than I would have expected!), Lady Gaga, LMFAO, Lupe Fiasco, Maroon 5, One Republic, Pink, Pit Bull and Rihanna. As ever, a masterful work that captured many of the better dance moves from hit videos of the year.

ABDC mailbox; Nappytabs pregnancy!, update on Steve Terada (Quest's) injury

- 2012 is shaping up to be a major year for Napoleon and Tabitha D'umo (choreographers for America's Best Dance Crew and So You Think You Can Dance). They are busy as choreographers for Fox's MOBBED -- here's a preview clip for the January 4 episode that includes Nappytabs and ABDC alums including Glenda Morales (Fanny Pak). And, they've announced that Tabitha is pregnant. Congratulations to both of you!

- Steve Terada of Quest Crew (ABDC3 winners) was injured while working on the movie "Planet Bboy". In this video, he talks about his accident and recovery. We hope it goes smoothly and that you'll be 100% better soon!

Video: Homegrown (from SoReal Studio): "The Glory"

Andrew Baterina and Jackie Lautchang (two members of ABDC2's SoReal Cru) along with Rian Beriones and Trenton Tabak (other members of SoReal Studio) choreographed "The Glory" for Homegrown, the adult team from SoReal Studio. I hope this group plans to audition for the ABDC7! From SorealStudioTV Youtube.

The 2011 BBDC Readers' Choice Awards: Nominate your favorite videos from 2011!

Hi there BBDC readers! With 2011 winding to a close, it's time to announce the first annual BloggingBestDanceCrew Readers' Choice Awards!

How this works:

1. Nominations-Nominate your favorite dance videos from 2011. There are three different categories that videos can be a part of: favorite performance, favorite battle, and favorite video. These categories will be explained in more detail below. You can nominate one video for each category per IP address. You have until midnight on Thursday, December 29 to nominate your favorite videos. The videos can feature any kind of dancing from any crew or solo performer. The dancers do not need to have appeared on ABDC. The 4 most nominated videos for each category will be included in each poll.

2. Voting-Starting at 6 PM on Thursday, December 29, a poll will be posted daily. Each poll will have the top 4 nominees for each category. Each poll will be open for 24 hours.

3. Results-Results from each poll will be posted at 6 PM on Sunday, January 1, 2011.

Categories:

Favorite Performance: Any performance by a crew or soloist at any dance event or on any television show. The performance can be competition or exhibition.

Favorite Battle: Any battle between two or more crews or solo dancers.

Favorite Video: Any dance video recorded outside of a show or competition. Can be a music video, choreography video, class video, concept video, etc.

There you have it! Let's begin the nomination process below. Remember, you have until 12:00 AM this Thursday to nominate your favorite videos.

WARNING: Any user who attempts to make multiple nominations from the same IP address while changing their username will have all his/her nominations removed. Repeat offenders may be banned.

Locations for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7 auditions

ABDCCasting.com revealed the audition locations for the next season of America's Best Dance Crew:
-Chicago: January 13, 2012 - Superior Stret, 2744 W.Superior Street
-Houston: January 15, 2012 - SoReal Dance Studios, 6108 S. Rice, Suite 104
-New York: January 21, 2012 - SIR Studios, 520 W, 25th St. 
- Los Angeles: January 28, 2012 - CenterStaging, 3407 Winona Ave, Burbank

Chachi (IaMmE) video promoting Just Dance 3

Chachi Gonzales from IaMmE created a video for the Just Dance 3 game from Ubisoft. The company should put this in TV -- Chachi makes it look so fun and easy that it would be a best seller! From chachi0123 Youtube.

Concept video from Mami (We Are Heroes) - "Promise"

Mami Kanemitsu (member of ABDC4 champions We are Heroes) co-choreographs and co-stars in a new concept video with G Madison called "Promise". I particularly like the split screened choreo. From mamikworld Youtube.

Video: Brandon '747' Harrell (IaMmE) - "Thinking about You"

Even more work this week from members of IaMmE (ABDC6 winners): Brandon '747' Harrell  choreographs and solos to JR Aquino's "Thinking about You". From showoff747 Youtube. Thanks for the tip Chris!

Hype 5-0 TV Presents: Christmas Dubstep Freestyle

Aloha! Hype is undergoing some serious changes as they gear up for 2012, and one of them includes new member, AJ Pak aka Headache.

The Hype has been placing and winning at WOD Hawaii and LA, but they don't plan on stopping there. Check out this amazing freestyle from Headache, in this short Christmas themed sample:

Video: Keone Madrid - Compilation

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone! Today we have a special present from Keone Madrid (Choreo Cookies). He posted a video to his official Youtube Channel of FIVE pieces he's taught recently. Enjoy!

Video: Dumbo (Poreotics) and IaMmE member collaboration - "Say My Name"

Though we haven't seen many recent videos from the full IaMmE crew, subsets of the ABDC6 champions have been busy performing with other dancers. The latest: Dumbo (from ABDC5 champion crew Poreotics) dances with IaMmE's Pacman, Emilio, and Brandon (with a Chachi cameo!) From PoreoticsHD Youtube. Thanks for the tip, Greg!

Video: How Poreotics celebrate Christmas

Continuing with our Christmas programming (we need a Yule log dance!): Poreotics show how they celebrate the holidays. Dumbo was missing -- probably because he was dancing with IaMmE (see today's video!)

Christmas dance video from Quick Crew

Quick Crew created a light and magical routine for the holidays. I think it's a classic. Be sure to click on the snowflake on the Youtube toolbar.  From TheQuickStyle Youtube.

Twelfth Day of Crewmas: Merry Christmas greetings from ICONic Boyz, ReQuest, Phunk Phenom, Ringmasters & more

For the last day of Crewmas, HouseofCrews assembled holiday wishes from all the crews that participated in their Days of Crewmas video series: ICONic Boyz, ReQuest Crew, Phunk Phenomenon, Ringmasters, Rhythm City, Elektrolytes, SGBM,  ICONic Girlz, PLAGUE, Ven15, In Da Clutch, 5 Crew Dynasty, and New Styles Krew. Happy Holidays to House of Crews for creating this series and to all our readers.

Video: How Santa Funk'd up Christmas

One more holiday video: FunkdUpTV Youtube filmed Santa Claus (aka  Sal "Doc Lock" of Groovmekanex and Fresh Dynamix) popping and locking all around San Francisco. Thanks to the folks at Funk'd Up for keeping 2011  full of dance.

Video: Kyle Hanagami & Friends - "Moondance"

Kyle Hanagami is back with smooth moves, performing "Moondance, along with Brandon Dumlao (So You think You Can Dance), Koharu Sugawara, Tanner Clark, and Alessandro Steri. From kylehanagami Youtube.

11th day of Crewmas: 2011 best crew lists from ICONic Boyz, Elektrolytes, and other top crrews

The 11th day of Crewmas asked top dancers from ICONic Boyz, ICONic Girlz, Elektrolytes, Rhythm City, SGBM, In da Clutch, Ven15, 5 Crew Dynasty, and PLAGUE to name their favorite dancers of the year. The nominations (with some photos and film clips) include: ReQuest Crew, Skill Methodz, Vagabonds Crew, U-Min, Chris Brown, Buddha Stretch, IaMmE, New Styles Krew, Choreo Cookies, and Mischief Makers. Go to HouseofCrews Youtube for all the days of Crewmas

NAOTV Episode 7: Holiday Edition

Happy Holidays BBDC! This week's episode is choc full of holiday themed videos. But all of those are after the jump because it would be blasphemy to not feature Lyle Beniga's choreography to "Bait" this week.

You can never go wrong with a Movement Lifestyle artist. Now onward to the Christmas/Chanukah/Kwanzaa/whatever other holidays people celebrate spirit! (and other, not exactly holiday related videos)

As usual, you can watch the playlist here or follow me after the jump.

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

Quick-Christmas Concept 2-Let's get the holiday ball rolling by heading to Norway for Quick Crew's Christmas video. Normally, music box routines are performed by popping crews. Here, Quick puts their own unique spin on it with their unique style.

Mike Song, Phillip "Pacman" Chbeeb, and Di "Moon" Zhang-"Christmas Jiggy"- This was a very fun collaboration among three very talented ABDC alumni. Nothing says Christmas quite like pajamas, Santa hats, and dancing to Mariah Carey songs.

Dumbo n Chloe Christmas Freestyles-This was a great year for kid dancers getting exposure. Here we have Dumbo and his 11 year old student Chloe Enriquez freestyling to dubstep. For only training in popping for 6 months, this girl is pretty good.

Unveiled-Pacman's holiday present to his fans includes his signature style of choreography and I.aM.mE's trademarked Brain Banging. Performing alongside him are fellow crew members Millie and Jaja.

Jaja Vankova-"Promise"-Someone just made the naughty list! Jaja flaunts her sexy side in this video. Her rnb choreo is just as good, if not better than, as what we're used to seeing from her. Throw in some comic relief from 747 and her own mother, and you get a great video.

Faboo & Valentina by Tomson-Great production combined with great dancing is the best way for a dance video to get views. This video has just that. Really dope stuff.

Les Twins @ Tunay Ink Dance Studio-Les Twins and Yak Films. Need I say more?

**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

10th day of Crewmas: Stunt Demos & explanations from Ringmasters, Elektrolytes, Plague, 5 Crew Dynasty

I was hoping that the 10th of Christmas gift of Lords A-leaping would translate into some Crewmas stunt explanation. House of Crews did a really nice job on this one with both visuals and explanations for: Elektrolyte's Tower, Ringmasters' jumps, Plagues's crash dive, and 5 Crew Dynasty's Incredible Hulk. As they say: Don't try this at home. If you missed any of the previous Crewmas videos, you can catch them at HouseofCrews Youtube.

Video: Pacman, Jaja & Emilio (IaMmE) - "Unveiled"

Here's another video designed as a Christmas present for fans: Phillip 'Pacman' Chbeeb choreographs and dances with IaMmE crewmates Džajna "Jaja" Vaňková and Emilio "Millie" Dosal. This mini-brainbang is called "Unveiled". From Pacman Youtube.

Video: Megan (Fanny Pak) on "Ils Dansent"

From the Megan Lawson Vimeo description: "A shortened version of Ils Dansent episode 7 featuring the choreography of Megan Lawson.Ils Dansent is a Montreal based documentary series chronicling the journey of 10 young male dancers. This program allows viewers to see the creative process of both teacher and student in the world of dance."

Video: Static Noyze's new footage - the road from auditions to rehearsals to ABDC

Static Noyze (America's Best Dance Crew Season 5) just released a video showing a lot of new footage that should be interesting to their fans and to crews considering auditioning for the show. It includes clips from their final audition routine vs. different versions of the routine for ABDC's 'regional' show (answering the question of how routines change to take advantage of camera angles), and other rehearsal and backstage footage. From StaticNoyze6TV Youtube.

9th day of Crewmas= ladies dancing: ReQuest, We Are Heroes, Ven15

Since today's Christmas present is 9 Ladies Dancing, it's no surprise that the Crewmas focus today is on ladies of dance: ReQuest Crew, We are Heroes, and Ven15. The video from HouseofCrews shows older performance footage. The discussion: goals as a girl group and advice for women aspiring to become dancers.

Video from Poreotics 4 year anniversary: dancing, plus interview with Poreotics, Instant Noodles, Moon (IaMmE) & more

Chris Trondsen covered Poreotics' 4 year anniversary party on December 19, 2011 for PacificRimVideoPress. Scenes of the ABDC5 winners dancing are interspersed among interviews with the crew and their friends -- Pac Modern, Instant Noodles, Moon from IaMmE, Toybox, Movement Lifestyle, and others.

Video: Pacman, Moon, & Mike Song - "Christmas Jiggy"

Phillip 'Pacman' Chbeeb and Di 'Moon' Zhang (members of IaMmE) join up with Mike Song (Kaba Modern, Kinjaz) for some "Christmas Jiggy". Love the Christmas PJs, Santa hats, awesome dancing, and a camera angle that makes them look slightly elf-ish. From MikeoSong Youtube.

Video: GOP Dance LA-Style workshop

GOP and their dance family (including 787 Crew) have been pushing the hip hop dance community forward in Puerto Rico for years. Here's a recent example: an LA-style workshop class. From GOPDANCE Youtube

8th Day of Crewmas: fitness confessions from ReQuest, Phunk Phenomenon, Rhythm City & more

No 8 maids a-milking for the 8th day of Crewmas. Instead, HouseofCrews Youtube presents a discussion on milk and other fitness and diet tips/confessions from ABDC alums from ReQuest Crew, We Are Heroes, Phunk Phenomenon, and Rhythm City, as well as members of SGBM, New Styles Crew and other dance groups.

Video: Steelo's Christmas party (including Beat Freaks and Groovaloos)

The dance community came out to support Steelo's recovery and his family at the recent Steelo 444 fundraiser (read about it here). This new video provides an update on Steelo -- as you can see, he's made major progress since the aneurysm that sidelined his dancing career. The video also includes members of Beat Freaks and Groovaloos at this holiday party.

Here's hoping for continued progress for Steelo in the new year! While the fundraiser was a great success, additional contributions will be helpful in supporting Steelo until he's fully recovered. For more information (and for information about the video of the Steelo 444 event once it's available) go to Steelo444.com. Thanks for the tip, Joanie and Greg!

Tivo Alert: Bonita (Beat Freaks) on MADE tonight

Bonita, a member of Beat Freaks, is the coach on the episode of MTV's MADE that airs December 21, 2011. Check your local listings. Here's a preview:

MTV Shows

Video: Vibes Juniors Competition: Congratulations IDK!

The First Vibes Juniors Competition was held December 17, 2011. First place went to IDK, second place to TM Jr. and Third place to The Organization. Congratulations and hope you audition for America's Best Dance Crew Season 7! Thanks for the links Xerpent!

7th day of Crewmas: hidden talents of ReQuest, ICONic Boyz, Phunk Phenomenon, We Are Heroes

For the seventh day of Crewmas, the HouseofCrews couldn't come up with any swans a-swimming, so they asked crews about their other talents. ReQuest Crew, ICONic Boyz, Phunk Phenomenon, We are Heroes, Ringmasters, SGBM, and others. There's a lot of singers, as well as some strippers, rappers, knitters, jugglers, and an on-command farter (guess which crew!)

Video: Chachi (IamMe) workshop at Planet Funk

Chachi (member of ABDC6 champions IaMmE) taught a workshop at Planet Funk in Houston on December 17, 2011. I find it inspiring how she finds time to help out the next generation of dancers, in addition to the rest of her crazy schedule. From ShawnWellingDance Youtube.

Poreotics talk about ABDC judges, fights, and ideal girls on Threesome Nightly

Poreotics did a long interview with ThreeSome Nightly in December 2011. They answered questions from the fans and from moderators including: their ideal girls, the most rewarding part about performing, why they almost never perform without shades, why they'd like to collaborate with Black Eyed Peas,their biggest influences,  their craziest fight, and what they think about the judges on America's Best Dance Crew. Here's part of the interview; click here to see the sections on ideal girls, biggest influences, and shoutouts to fans. Thanks for the tip, PerezOverride!

Video: JabbaWockeeZ in the 2011 Hollywood Christmas Parade

JabbaWockeeZ danced at the 2011 Hollywood Christmas Parade, which aired on the Hallmark Movie Channel. The performance is a good indication of why their Las Vegas show MUS.I.C continues to attract large audiences.

6th day of Crewmas: How ReQuest, Ringmasters, We Are Heroes, SGBM relax

Halfway through the 12 days of Crewmas from HouseofCrews Youtube. Instead of 6 geese a-laying, we've got dancers laying around. ABDC alums from ReQuest Crew, Ringmasters, We Are Heroes, as well as members from Super Galactic Beat Manipulators, 5 Crew Dynasty, In Da Clutch, PLAGUE, and New Styles Crew talk about how they kick back. Here's the previous 5 days of Crewmas videos: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5

Video: Massive Monkees rehearse for Mezzo Lunatico

Massive Monkees (ABDC Season 4) are still very active in their hometown of Seattle. Here's video from a rehearsal from at for Mezzo Lunatico at Teatro Zinzanni. From Teatro Zinzanni Youtube.

Video: Philippine Allstars at Pinoy Funkin Styles Concert

Here's a new performance from one of the top international crews -- Philippine Allstars. From bgirlbeatch Youtube.

5th day of Crewmas: all about boy groups - ICONic Boyz, Ringmasters, Elektrolytes

No golden rings for the Fifth Day of Crewmas. Instead -- the golden boys: all-boy crews. There are interviews with performance footage for Elektrolytes, ICONic Boyz, Ringmasters, and 5 Crew Dynasty. If you missed the first 4 days of Crewmas from Youtube, click here to watch: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3,   Day 4

Video: Dtrix tutorial on how to air flare

Got some extra time during your holiday break? Learn to air flare from Domininc 'Dtrix' Sandoval (America's Best Dance Crew judge, member of ABDC3's Quest Crew, So You Think You Can Dance all-star, & Youtube Family member). From VincaniTV Youtube which has a good series of videos teaching basic bboy moves.

Video: Machine Gone Funk at J.U.I.C.E Hip Hop Festival

Machine Gone Funk danced at J.U.I.C.E (Justice by Uniting in Creative Energy) Hip Hop Festival  in September 2011. From BionicSupreme Youtube. Thanks for the tip Brian!

Video: Lyle Beniga choreographs all-stars for "Bait"

Lyle Beniga (Movement Lifestyle) tapped the talents of Shaun Evaristo, Lando Wilkins, Ellen Kim, Ian Eastwood, Bam Martin, JP Goldstein, Johnny Erasme,Devin Jamieson,Joesar Alva, Mykell Wilson,Amanda Grind, Mike Fal,Jeka Kalotkin,Jason Magsuc, Vinh Nguyen and Marvin Millora for this new video from MovementLifestyle Youtube. Thanks for the link,  Gary!

Video: Choreometry -- interesting new dance group

Choreometry Dance Crew (from Biloxi, MS and Mobile, AL) came to our attention through an ABDC alum. They are not sure whether they will be auditioning for the next season of America's Best Dance Crew, but are focused on developing their skills and their audience. Here's the submission for the Movement Lifestyle competition; you can see more of their work at ChoreometryDanceCrew Youtube. What do you think?