Sixteen Red Bull ‘Dance Your Style’ finalists have been selected and will compete in the competition’s fourth national final, slated to take place on September 2. 

The competition, which will be open to the public, is free of charge and will begin at 7:00 pm at the Half-Way Tree Transport Centre. The 16 finalists will go toe-to-toe in multiple battle rounds judged solely by the audience.

This year’s winner will represent the island on the global stage at the 2023 Red Bull Dance Your Style World Final, set to take place in Frankfurt, Germany on November 4. For the first time, this year’s final will be broadcast live on RETV. 

Coming from a diverse range of backgrounds, disciplines and interests, the 16 finalists all have one thing in common – an innate love for dance and Jamaican dance culture. Seven females and nine males make up the group of 16 who will compete on September 2. This year’s contestants include – Oneil The Great, AJ Byns Impact, Smilez, DHQ Chicken, Chin Flame, Maahjesty, Pureflow Crazy Shellingz, Jay The Danca, Nae Uneek, Baby Girl, Skitta Star, Mission Blazzaz, Pinky Tallawah, Wire Waist, Wazzi, and Freshhh Immortal.

In a competition such as this, versatility and strength are key – strength in performance and personality. The team is proud to once again give local talents a chance to showcase their skills. Following the event’s tried-and-true format, audience response will continue to determine the outcome, enabling dancers to draw inspiration from the crowd’s energy, thereby adding a distinctive edge to each competitor’s overall presentation.

“I am excited and deeply thankful to once again be a part of the Red Bull Dance Your Style competition, an opportunity that holds special significance for me as a dancer. It has been a remarkable experience, collaborating with the amazing dancers and the Red Bull team. As we embark on the 2023 edition, I’m eager to witness more versatility and a stronger female presence. To the 16 finalists, I urge you to venture beyond your comfort zones, connect profoundly with the music, and infuse the stage with your vibrant personas – remember, the more vibrant you are, the deeper the crowd’s connection,” said Latonya Style, world-renowned Jamaican dancer, choreographer, this year’s event host and an affiliate of Red Bull Jamaica’s Dance Your Style since inception. 

When asked why the Red Bull Dance Your Style platform is so important, she shared that, “This space enables them to showcase their individuality,  step out of their comfort zones, challenge themselves, and perform on a competitive level.  It empowers them to bring forth their utmost potential and showcase their extraordinary abilities. Their competitive spirit on this stage opens doors to global opportunities, setting a course for greatness. Kudos to Red Bull for their unwavering commitment to the Red Bull Dance Your Style Competition, fostering an invaluable platform for our dancers.” 

Started in 2018, with the first world final held in 2019, Red Bull Dance Your Style features a unique battle format and has become a platform for street dancers of all styles – from hip-hop to house, popping, locking and more – to showcase their skills. In the competition, they are challenged with unpredictable music hits and are crowned by crowd-voting. Competitors must conquer the audience as they are ultimately deciding who will rule the dance floor. Therefore, audience attendance and participation are crucial for the success of the event, so members of Jamaica’s diverse dance community, as well as dance, music, entertainment and cultural enthusiasts, are encouraged to come out to support their favourite dancers. 

Joel Immortal, the 2023 Red Bull Dance Your Style Champion, encouraged this year’s contestants to, “run and grab the opportunity like food!”

“Put your all into your battles, bring entertainment to the stage, express yourself and put on a show!  Try to bring something different to the stage. In my final battle, I did something unusual – a testament that Red Bull truly gives you wings! So do your best to leave an impact come competition night!” he exclaimed.