Dancehall is not just a dance, it’s a culture!
Dancehall Battle NYC brought out a few of dancehall’s finest dancers and choreographers who were ready to set it off. The 2 day event put on by Art of Legohn featured a set of dance workshops and battles that brought out all lovers of dancehall.
The Workshops
Attendees learned choreography from Korie Genius, Pyrotech Unruly, and Yaminah Legohn.
They all brought their own unique touch using songs like Language by Voicemail and Trini Dem Girls by Nicki Minaj.
Korie, Pyrotech Unruly and Yaminah gave short history lessons on the origins of dancehall and particular moves like Squappers by Supreme Blazers.
Dancehall has traveled far beyond its home in Jamaica. As a result, it has global influence. So, it is great to see choreographers share the history of dancehall culture in the middle of a class. We don’t see this very often.
Each choreographer had a short freestyle section at the end of their pieces. This brought out each dancer’s individual style and take on dancehall moves.
The Battles
Over 80 people came to see individuals and duos bring the vibes and show off their best. DJ Yanks provided the sounds they were shellin down to while TwinCity TV captured the epic battles that were about to go down.
2v2 battles were the first to go and featured dancers from Ravers Clavers, Danca Family, One Nation, and YPree Dancers. Duos used moves traveling across many years of the dance style including new school.
After the winner was declared, the 1v1 battles were ready to go. A whopping 19 competitors faced the judges and each other. The 1v1 battles tested the knowledge of dancehall moves from the era the songs were in. For instance, competitors could have great energy but fail to incorporate as many era moves as possible. In short, they can lose.
Credit: Milan Miller 
Credit: Milan Miller 
Credit: Milan Miller 
Credit: Milan Miller
Winner Takes All
There was stiff competition between the last two competitors. After two rounds of ties, the clear winner emerged. Jevon Fletcher, shown on the left, became the 2019 Champion of Dancehall Battle NYC.
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