Historically Black Colleges and Universities are renowned for their show bands. Unlike core style bands, these ensembles pride themselves for being loud, energetic, hip, and stylish. Though this is mainly only because these bands generate substantial profits for their schools, credit should be given where it’s due. Show bands come to entertain, and do just that. Since the 1960's, Historically Black Colleges and Universities have adapted more and more dancing into their field shows in response to audiences' reactions. This puts added importance on their auxiliary lines who are the main visual aspect of the band. These auxiliary lines have formed lives of their own, as they gain notoriety and fame. With names that describe their unique styles and appeals, they perform at football games and performances around the world. The unique style of show band auxiliary dancing involves technique, athleticism, and flair that wows observers. Here is a list of my top 5 favorite dance lines:
5. Alabama State University's Stingettes
The Stingettes are exceptional in that they’ve managed to walk the fine line between “stank” and cute. Most dance lines take one of two paths, because honestly, hard dancing and athletic stunts are entertaining, but they’re hardly attractive. Likewise, the more feminine moves are appealing, though it gets pretty boring after a while. Also, how many different ways can you shake your butt anyway? Somehow, The stingettes have managed to find every way imaginable, because sex appeal is their niche and clean choreography keeps them relevant in the dance community. Though they have gotten some flack over their wardrobe choices, I think they pull them off well, since everyone on the team is fit. If anyone should be allowed to wear barely anything to a public function, it should be them. It also doesn’t hurt that they are all pretty, which is not a coincidence.
4. Bethune Cookman Univerity's 14 karat Gold Dancers
I think this is by far the most underrated dance team. Bethune Cookman is never really talked about as far as great bands go. Publicity is clearly not nearly as important to their program. Despite of this, the few times they have participated in a classic or battle of the bands, they’ve sounded beautiful, which means that quality musicians still flock to the school. My point of mentioning the band is that the quality of sound usually parallels the quality of dancing going on in front of it. 14 karat Gold Dancers are just that-quality. They may not be as sexy as other teams or as innovative, but they’re a pretty strong team, based on execution of choreography and clean routines. To me, the saying “cleanliness is next to godliness” rings it’s truest in respect to dance teams. It will never matter what kind of stunts and flips are being done if it looks sloppy and rushed. 14 Karat Gold is never that. They are precise, but not robotic or boring. Here is a video of BCU's arrangement of "Get it for the low"
3. Jackson State University's Prancing J-Settes
I love the J-Settes because they have their own sub-style of dance. They are the inventors of “bucking” and the ramp kick. While most teams borrow from each other since they all have the same style, J-Settes can always say they are original in their Stand Routines because no one, and I mean no one, else does what they do. They may not be the prettiest girls, but they certainly put on a great show. They perform in their natural hair and makeup, foregoing the heavy wigs and weaves that other teams depend on. They allow their moves to shine, instead of the glitz and glamor. Also, they deserve some type of honor for never abandoning the boots and capes from the 70’s. Even in 2013, they have stuck with their classic look and style, and add their own new flare to it. For this, I applaud them.
2. Southern University’s Dancing Dolls
Southern University’s Dancing Dolls could be described as nothing short of adorable! Like the J-settes, their hair and wardrobe choices have remained the same forever, with glittery headbands and white gloves that they’ve worn for decades. Their prance is unique as well, their inner Barbie coming alive with every step. Though they don’t dance as hard as every other team, it doesn’t matter because they dance with the most grace and elegance of any team there’s ever been. They are the definition of class, and they’re the type of team you could see your grandmother being a member of in her prime. If Sex appeal is the Stingettes’ specialty, elegance is theirs.
1. North Carolina A&T's Golden Delight
Golden Delight, otherwise known as the sweethearts of the MEAC, is my Hands-Down favorite because they’re the Hands-Down best. They are precise and clean in the stands and on the field. They have at least 3 costume changes EVERY game. They incorporate different styles into their routines, including hip hop and ballet, which allows for a certain novelty you won’t find anywhere else. Not only do they dance, but everyone on the team twirls Flag and baton. They are versatile and by far the most talented group I have ever had the pleasure of watching perform. Their talent has not gone unnoticed, however. They have recently shined in the 2013 Honda Battle of the Bands and were the only HBCU to perform in the 2012 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Watch as they perform with the Blue and Gold Marching Machine in New York.
No comments:
Post a Comment