The Jabbawockeez, an iconic American hip-hop dance crew, forged their legacy by winning the inaugural season of America’s Best Dance Crew in 2008. Established in 2003 in San Diego, California, by visionary dancers Kevin “KB” Brewer and Joe Larot, the crew embarked on a mission to redefine dance as both a rhythmic and artistic expression.
From the outset, Jabbawockeez aimed to strike a balance between dancing to the music and using movement as a profound form of artistic communication. By 2004, the crew expanded to include Phil “Swagger Boy” Tayag, Ben “B-Tek” Chung, Chris “Cristyle” Gatdula, Rynan “Kid Rainen” Paguio, and Jeff “Phi” Nguyen. In 2013, Tony “Transformer” Tran joined the crew, further enhancing their dynamic ensemble.
What sets Jabbawockeez apart is their collective ethos; there is no designated leader. Choreography, music selection, and design choices are all collaborative decisions made by the entire unit. This approach has led to groundbreaking performances that seamlessly blend innovation, precision, and an unmistakable sense of unity.
Beyond their triumph on America’s Best Dance Crew, the Jabbawockeez have become synonymous with cutting-edge hip-hop dance, captivating audiences around the world. With their iconic white masks and gloves, they continue to push the boundaries of artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the global dance scene.