TALL RICK ARTICLE -- The Second Review: "From the Mind of a Judge"

Take a moment to read the article about Pratt's interview with one of the judges, Tall Rick, at the 25th World's Largest Stepper Gala and its dance contests.  The Chicago-based major event held in September, at Tinley Park Convention Center, is comparable to the Oscar or Grammy ceremonies for the Steppin' industry. 

Tall Rick, who is also a Chicago-Steppin' instructor, asked readers to Google BET's Celebration of Gospel 2014 performances from last March.  Performances by Zacardi Cortez and Lalah Hathaway and Jonathan McReynolds and India Arie help provide a vibe that sets the tone for his take on the silver anniversary observances of participating steppers, as hosted by ChiSteppers.  

According to Tall Rick (Pratt, October 5, 2015), the Stepper(he or she) is to find songs that are supposed "to inspire, motivate, and move" the stepper some kind of way. The stepper is encouraged to LISTEN to the music while participating in the Stepper dance community. 

Additional notes will be shared in my classes about respecting the DANCE of Steppin'. Steppers must take the time to "L-EARN your place on the dance floor," “feel” the music, and entertaining your partners--not your would-be spectators....





"It is not necessary to have a 'hard beat' or 'cadence' just to start a dance" -- Tall Rick

RESPECT THE DANCE--A Stepper's Sermon

There is an article to read that concerns the state of Chicago Steppin'.  A recognized male stepper in the industry known as Tall Rick shares his thought on his basic concepts to understanding steppin.' He suggested that a love for steppin' means always acquiring the SKILLS to be stepper.


Rick said:

"The men don’t want to consider taking all of their steps to get better in the dance and the women get bored too fast and too easily."  

You should expect to hear this as a beginner who is learning steppin' as well as one who is beyond the basics.

Tall Rick believes --

"Everyone learns differently. Some learn under pressure, while others need more repetitive movement. Some analyze and some feel." 

His opinion is a valid one that can be summarized that an inspiration for steppin' comes from a musical flow.

The link to Tall Rick's message is here at the jump:  TALL RICK’S STRONG MESSAGE TO STEPPERS!

I will echo this: Be hungry to learn, and remember steppin' should be FUN!

Come learn on the floor with our new series of classes starting August 3rd!!