SEATTLE — Get ready to witness the battles of a lifetime. Red Bull Lords of the Floor is coming back to Seattle after 23 years with a whole new lineup of some of the best 2-person crews across the globe.
“Red Bull Lords of the Floor is one of the most iconic breaking battles in history,” said B-Boy Jeromeskee. "It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”
More than 20 years ago, a trailblazing event in Seattle, Lords of the Floor, revolutionized competitive breakdancing. This story explores how breaking evolved from a fringe activity to an Olympic sport.
This time around, the event will feature 16 international duos who are either looking to take care of unfinished business or to make their mark on the global stage.
“This is going to be nostalgia, one for the history books,” said B-boy Orbitron Orb. “Who they're bringing back, and who's going to be new?”
Breaking traditionally centered on the crew, but as competitions helped broaden worldwide appeal, the combination art form/sport began to evolve toward two-on-two matchups and individual battles. In this respect, it mirrored hip-hop itself, which became more about solo acts than the group.
The original event in 2001 served as the blueprint for modern, competitive breaking, representing a seismic leap that transformed the sport from a fringe art into a global phenomenon.
The battle will be at the WAMU Theater on Saturday, April 6, at 7:00 p.m. Hosted by the globally renowned comedian Jo Koy, who hosted the original 2001 event.
“This is going to be the first time you'll see generations compete at a high level, and it's going to be a treat,” said B-Boy Jeromeskee from the Massive Monkees.
Sixteen teams of b-boys and b-girls will battle their way to the top, showcasing their foundation, originality and musicality to vie for the title, respect and international recognition as the art form enters a new era.
“When I saw it for the first time, it was just mind-blowing,” said Jerome, founder of Body Rock Breaking. “You can't describe it. “You can't watch it. You got to be there. It's so unique and profound.”
“People are excited about it, but wait until you see it,” said B-Boy Jeromeskee. “Kids are going to be so inspired. Adults are going to be so inspired. It's going to connect.”
Just be part of the movement. Breaking doesn't judge.
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