WASHINGTON — Washington, D.C. is the heart of American politics, but it is so much more than that. Embedded in D.C. culture is go-go music, and you can't have go-go music without Beat Ya Feet. There's a resurgence of this style of dance, thanks to one D.C. native.
John Pearson III, aka Crazylegz is on a mission to teach, motivate, and inspire people, not just here in the DMV, but worldwide.
Beat Ya Feet is all about that bounce beat, rapid footwork, and go-go music -- and just like go-go music is the official sound of the city, Beat Ya Feet is the staple dance of Washington, D.C.
The Beat Ya Feet dance style started emerged from Anacostia in the late '90s by Marvin “Slush” Taylor -- influencing a younger generation.
"It was just culture. It was just something that’s embedded in D.C. culture. So all the kids were just dancing and there was so much dancing around that you felt left out if you didn’t dance," Crazylegz said.
Crazylegz developed the talent and passion for Beat Ya Feet — becoming one of the pioneers pushing this style of dance from the streets in the nation’s capital and making it international.
"We’re getting a lot of requests to be trained around the world. I have ambassadors in six different countries. They’ve been personally trained and we license the dance out now. A Beat Ya Feet curriculum," Crazylegz explained.
The dance has evolved over time, but has never lost the essence.
The popularity of this style of dance has even influenced the Washington Commanders.
"I sent 10 or 15 dancers over to be a part of the dance team. That’s when Beat Ya Feet was introduced, and now since then it’s been a great part of the entertainment dance team, representing for the culture and the Commanders," Crazylegz said.
It’s that dedication and hometown support that’s being recognized by the city he loves, with a mural that he shares with “Sugar Bear, " a music pioneer and founding member of the legendary D.C. go-go band E.U.
Crazylegz said he is so thankful for the support. He says working with our youth remains important. He loves to give back to the next generation of Beat Ya Feet dancers.
For workshops and dance lessons, you can follow Crazylegz on Instagram @crazylegzDC and also check out Abundant Dance and Artistry studio in Capitol Heights, Maryland.
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