Break Dancing requires a lot of skill, discipline, hard-work and physical strength.
Unfortunately, this style of dance is under-rated and under-appreciated in South Africa. Unlike in Europe and the States, break-dancing in South Africa is mostly a subculture. It is almost impossible for b-boys to make a living out of their talent or even to be recognised for their skills.
We at Melodi wanted to hear from a b-boy in South Africa who could teach us a little bit about this young, urban art.
Check out our interview with experienced B-Boy Genoridge Taylor.
1. How did you get into break-dancing?
I jumped over my friends fence one afternoon late July 2000 cracked my spinal cord straight or so it felt... Freakiest thing I ever felt with my own body. Then I watched the movie "Only The Strong" early September 2000, took my breath away when I saw how they capoeira. I then asked my brother(Prototype) to see if he can find me instructions over the internet. Exactly on the 22 November 2000 he brought me notes he downloaded. That is day it became a commitment. Studied the notes day in, day out. No teachers or other B-boys were around that time... So I had to work out every move myself. Our crew only started late 2002.
2. How do you feel about the break-dancing community in South Africa?
The community is large yet very underground. I feel bboy in South Africa has many hurdles but has all the ability. As long as one keeps ones mind to it, all is possible.
3. Who are you favourite b-boys?
I don't have a favorite. If I had one I would be bias for all bboys are great. My favorite bboy is the one that never gives up and always pushes on !!!
4. Why do you think break-dancing is not as big in S.A. as it is in the States?
I think it is much greater just not that commercialised. The states is a marketing harbour. That would be the main reason.
5. Are you a member of a b-boy crew?
Yes... My crew's name is 'Tha Anonymis'
6. What has been your best performance to date?
There have been many but my most potent experience ever breakin was in 2006/7 Macufe when BVK(brasse vannie kaap) performed at Clive Solomon Stadium in heidedal, when MR fats called me and another of my crew members named 'Stretch 1' up on stage to share sum of that light...It was of the hook! People screaming, crowd energy...2 local bboys on stage with the creators of the game in S.A...It showed me how much I have grown as a bboy and how much I need to still grow.
7. What struggles have you faced as a b-boy?
Getting a circle going... People look at you funny at first. But like my uncle told me on my 21st birthday ..." If u play Hip Hop over and over they will start to accept then they will like" ... Persistance creates motivation... Acceptance was my greatest struggle.
8. Do you break-dance for fun or are you dancing as a professional?
I breakdance for myself and havin fun with it. I would not call myself proffesional but I will call myself experienced.
10. Not many women break-dance, why do you think that is and how do you feel about it?
It is becuase a woman spinning on her arm or head is not generally accepted. It is looked on as crazy. And woman are put-off by this, I remember when I started it was hard, it is even harder for a woman I think. For there are more barriers to break being a woman ... And discouragement happens if there was any hope in a specific woman becoming a B-girl...
11. What advice would you give to someone who wants to learn how to break-dance?
Be real. Be true. If this path you choose to take, power you will accumulate. Never give up. always try and stay fresh. Always visualise then you will be able to accomplish, for your vision will become real....
12. What resources are there available to young people in South Africa who are starting out as b-boys?
The internet is the greatest source, videos and teachings. I started off alone. And schooled myself. All I had was notes and my mind. Everything else had to be worked out like mathematics.... Bloemfontein is still rising. The cape and Gauteng have workshops and clubs and opportunity is everywhere....
*If you have enjoyed reading Geno's interview, and want to get in touch with him, drop us a note at melodimelodie@yahoo.com*
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