JabbaWockeez: America’s Best Dance Crew
Ever heard of the dance floor masters in white masks and gloves? Well, they call themselves the JabbaWockeeZ, a name they penned from Lewis Carroll’s poem, “Jabberwocky”, which is about a fantastical monster.
This all-male hip-hop crew earned its popularity with the reality dance competition America’s Best Dance Crew in 2008. Due to their hard-earned and well-earned win, the group since then appeared on various commercials and music videos, international tours and performed side-by-side famous celebrities such as NBA’s Shaquille O’Neal, New Kids on The Block. The group also did a cameo appearance in the film Step Up2 The Streets, however, the scene was deleted during the final cut. They also made an appearance in America’s Next Top Model episode “Dance with Me”.
The group from San Diego originally comprised of Gary “Gee One” Kendall, Randy “DJ Wish One” Bernal, Kevin “KB” Brewer, Phil “Swaggerboy” Tayag, and Joe “Emajoenation” Larot. Later on, they added two more members, Chris “Cristyle” Gatdula and Rynan “Kid Rainen” Paguio. This 7-member dance crew first started performing in 2003. The group then added four extra members namely, Jeff “Phi” Nguyen, Ben “B-Tek” Chung, Saso “Saso Fresh” Jimenez and Eddie “Eddiestyles” Guttierez. Unfortunately, the group’s mentor figure, Gary Kendall died of pneumonia and meningitis complications on December 14, 2007.
If you’re still wondering why the group chose to wear masks, it’s because they want each of their performance to be free from any social or ethnical barriers. In addition, it will free the audience from distractions. Their visual signature aims to highlight their dance moves and style.
Today, the group continues to enjoy worldwide fame. They have their own website and clothing line including the famous white masks which customers can purchase via their online store.
