In the tail end of 2023, the Breaking Hall of Fame, the official breakdance hall of fame, honored its next annual class in the birthplace of hip-hop, the Bronx, NY. The Bronx Museum hosted the event, which was presented by Dancin’ Doug, DDT, and The First Generation BBoyz, LLC. Special thank you to State Assemblyman Rev. Al Taylor.
Zulu Gremlin was presented with the Culture Award, for his history of breakdance and work in the culture. An accomplished choreographer, instructor, trainer, and gold medal winning dancer, he is the living embodiment of breaking. He posted his acceptance speech on his instagram where he says:
I’d like to thank the Bronx Museum for hosting this event and the BBoy Hall of Fame for honoring me with this award. All of the first and second generation bboys and bgirls who inspired me to be a part of this culture, and my family for their continued support.
Zulu Gremlin via video acceptance speech
The History of Breaking
Breakdancing, a dynamic cornerstone of hip-hop culture, originated in the 1970s in the Bronx, New York City, amid a backdrop of economic decline, social change, and a booming urban youth culture. Often associated with the burgeoning hip-hop movement, breakdancing, also known as “breaking” or “b-boying,” was largely influenced by African American and Puerto Rican communities. Its inception is attributed to street parties thrown by DJ Kool Herc, who extended the instrumental breaks in funk music, creating a rhythmic canvas for dancers. These dancers, known as breakers or b-boys and b-girls, showcased their athleticism and creativity through acrobatic moves, stylized footwork, and fierce battles. Breakdancing rapidly evolved into a form of artistic expression, embodying the struggles, resilience, and vibrancy of the urban youth. By the 1980s, it had gained global recognition, profoundly influencing dance, music, and fashion worldwide, and continues to be an influential and evolving art form in contemporary culture.
The Breaking Hall of Fame
The Breaking Hall of Fame Award Ceremony honors the achievements of the Most Influential BBoys and BGirls. The 3rd annual ceremony was streamed live. Click here to watch the full playback of the breakdance hall of fame induction ceremony