The B-Side

You definitely learn a whole lot when you first start entering the “battle” scene. it is a completely  different atmosphere and environment compared to choreography team competitions or freestyle performances and dance showcases.  the video above was one of my earlier experiences from the annual freestyle battle at the Tapas house club. i actually won a few pre-lim rounds and made it to the top 5. not bad, but looking back at that night, i still had a lot to improve upon. i’m currently in training mode again and i need to continue the streak…so who knows, maybe i’ll jump back in the circle sooner or later. if you have never experienced a bboy jam, a house, freestyle or funks battle, i highly suggest you watch them LIVE as opposed to catching them on youtube. the talent is in your face and if you appreciate good music and real Hip Hop, then you should have no problem enjoying these events regardless if you are a spectator or a beginner. this scene is so raw and interactive, you can sweat just as much as the competitors on the floor.

my personal advice based on my experiences, to any aspiring freestyle dancers considering entering the battle scene:

• know your music. start studying and getting familiar with old school hip hop, funk songs, house beats & breakbeats. the more you know, the more you can “freak the beat” during a battle, execute moves that go with the lyrics and gain that skill of musicality. the simplest of moves that fit the music wows the crowd just as much as unleashing crazy tricks.
• be your own competitor. never settle for less. regardless if you win a few battles – there will always be someone you have never met yet in the circle or someone preparing to take over your title. 
• know your limits. during a battle, your adrenaline is rushing and sometimes, one’s mind thinks they can do anything on the floor. this is a no-no. safety first and practice any power-related techniques before revealing in the circle. you may end up hurting yourself in the end – both physically and mentally.
• accept growth. whether you have a good battle or a bad one, continue to stay hungry and challenge yourself. all dancers will face failure and humiliation – this is important as it will test your true passions for dance, and is ultimately a rewarding learning experience. take the extra step to discover your true abilities, skills, secret weapons and hidden talents.
• get to know your opponents. if you come across the same foe a few times, study their tactics and strategize in case you meet them in the circle once or twice. attend local jams and identify potential competition. being a spectator is a good way to learn how other competitors carry out their business on the dance floor.
• stay INSPIRED. watch other styles that you’re not familiar with. you might end up incorporating something from that style into your own motives. be inspired by your competition. they are the ones who will also push you to becoming a better dancer.
• keep TRAINING. always be a student and try to learn something new every time you practice. know your hip hop fundamentals. this is key when it comes to lockin’, poppin’, breakin’, even wackin’ and house styles – it’s a big plus on the judges, crowd and your credibility if you prove you have knowledge on the foundation and history. so do your homework!
• most importantly – RESPECT. music and dance should always be based on positivity and the love for hip hop, regardless of the tension that unleashes during a battle. things can get heated, but at the end of the day, you should realize you have more things in common with your opponents than you think. 

Watch out for the 12th annual FREESTYLE SESSION coming in August. Lot’s of dope crews will be representing and fighting to earn some bragging rights.