The Breaking Scene in Nairobi
Breaking is a tenet of hip-hop culture that is as old as the movement, if not older. When hip-hop was in its formative years in the housing projects of New York in the 1960's, breaking crews were already entertaining crowds at block parties. Together with DJ's and graffiti artists, they laid the foundation for a way of life that has grown to become a dominant force in popular culture and even political conversations. And while scholars and enthusiasts look into the details of this and that, most hip hop fans are still learning about this peculiar form of dancing.
Breaking is a highly acrobatic form of dancing which requires participants to contort their bodies in numerous ways. There are four main stages followed when performing the art which are:Top-Rock, Down-Rock,Power Moves and Freezes. Top-Rock is the first stage where the b-boy or the b-girl moves their feet in while in a standing position.The Down-Rock then follows, where the performer uses their hands and feet while on the floor. The breaker then transitions into the Power Move -the main course. This stage requires athleticism, power and energy to perform maneuvers like the 'windmill or 'headspin'. The b-boys or b-girls will then finish the performance with a Freeze where they remain still as a statue, and try to hold balance in a contorted body position for some time. These principles and skills have been passed down from generation to generation, and from city to city, Nairobi being one of them.
I recently got the opportunity to meet one of the hottest b-boy crew leaders in Nairobi at the moment. Here's how my conversation with b-boy Onkwani of Halisi Breaking outfit went.
How did you get to know about breaking culture? How did you get to learn the craft?
I started breaking in 2013 at Kangemi, my neighborhood at the time. I learned the craft from other breakers in my community, mostly from members of my former crew Sisko. However in fairness, I basically learned from different people b-boys. The internet also played a big role.
Have you attended or participated in breaking competitions?
Yes, a lot. The major ones I can name are; Kenya Breaking Battle in 2020 organized by FlooRippers, SBK, Slumdance Africa in 2019, RDE Champs in 2020 which happened online, Redbull Dance Your Style in 2019 and Awakening Battle in 2019 & 2021, among others.
Winning the Redbull Dance Your Style competition, how was that feeling? How did you react, how did you celebrate?
Being my first win ever, I was naturally elated and over the moon. I remember it was a style event, which is not in my comfort zone as a performer. I however managed to push through, and I am more grateful for the win.
What are some of the avenues that breakers like yourself are using to make money?
It depends on your creativity and how you package yourself. Personally, I make money through doing shows, advertisements and teaching breaking classes which are my main source of income.
Speaking of money, what are some of the corporates that are keen on supporting b-boys and b-girls in Nairobi?
Redbull, as I mentioned earlier, is a leader on that front. I've worked with Guiness and Royal Media Services as well for a ViuSasa advert. We also have NGO's who come through for the community, especially in underprivileged areas. The American Embassy and French Embassy in Nairobi have and continue to be great partners.
Have you worked with any rappers in your city? We've seen more and more artists in recent months using b-boys in their performance sets and on videos.
I have worked with the likes of Trabolee, Asum Garvey,Muddah, Fena Gitu,Kagwe Mungai, Oksyde to name a few.
Lastly, tell me about the Kenyan Breakers Union?
My outfit, Halisi Breaking, like many other outfits ,all coalesced to form the KBU, which is the countrywide association of b-boys and b-girls. There are breaking crews even in Mombasa that are part of the union.
