The championships culminated an entire weekend of events honoring and exhibiting the art form of hip hop dance. The annual event is sponsored by
Hip Hop International - a subsidiary of
Sports Fitness International - a group that created and popularized sports aerobics and turned its sights to hip hop. The purpose of the weekend is to showcase the artistry; creativity and dedication by hip hop performers throughout the world.
right Comedian
Chris Spencer, original host of VIBE’s late night talk show, hosted the championships, and music was provided by LA’s own
Felli Fel, a DJ from hip hop radio station
Power 106. Some of the most notable choreographers in the game also volunteered as judges– they included,
Dave Scott - choreographer for the likes of
Jennifer Lopez, Usher and
Ashanti - Luther Brown - who works with such artists as
Alicia Keys, Mario and
Brandy -
Patricia Soave, Mr. Beat, Margherita Vasselli, Dennis Danehy and
Miriam Jeukens.
The teams were broken down into three divisions: The junior division was comprised of 7 to 11 year olds. The winning team was the crew
Mini Shock from the USA. The second division was the Varsity Division of 12 to 17 year olds. The winner was
Future Shock, another group from the USA. The final division was the Adults, 18 and over. The competition was steep in this round, with the win going to the
Philippine All Stars. Each winner was awarded a gold medal, not to mention bragging rights in their home country.
Most importantly, the competition showed just how far hip hop has spread and affected popular culture. Kids from Italy, who couldn’t speak a bit of English bumped and danced along to the words of
Fat Man Scoop in their routines.
To learn more about Hip Hop International or to participate in their events go to:
Hip Hop International.
Have a news tip?
Email us.
Read more vibe.com news headlines.
home
