Lobito Brigante Hails Breakin’ at The Olympics a Win

World-class breakdancers will compete for gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The decision to add breakin’ to the Olympics is a “definite win”, according to UAE hip-hop ambassador Lobito Brigante. 

“It’s a definite win for the community in terms of profile and will generate new sources of income for those who are on their game,” said Lobito. “It will also have a positive impact on encouraging a new generation to get into the culture. And it is a culture, part of the wider culture of hip-hop. I, personally, will never refer to it as a sport.”

The Olympic Committee decided earlier this week to add breakin’ to the 2024 Olympics. It was previously showcased as a trial at the Buenos Aires Youth Olympics in 2018. “Key people in the community have been involved in this initiative from the get-go,” said Lobito.

“There’s a comprehensive judging system in place for this,” explained Lobito. “It will deal with multiple elements of the dance from technicality, musicality and creativity, among other criteria.”

Schools and Styles

Deep Crates Cartel boss Lobito wouldn’t quite be drawn on which country is producing the world’s best B-boys and B-girls right now. “You’ll find amazing B-boys and B-girls worldwide,” he said. “Recent virtual competitions opened up entry to people who’d normally be unable to travel to competitions. I’m a huge fan of various schools and styles, from the original Mighty Zulu Kings traditions to the South Korean early 2000s revolution that keeps developing, and the European styles. Every region has something fresh to offer.”

Lobito Brigante has DJed at breakin’ battles – from smaller jams to UK, European and Worldwide championships – since 2001. He cites the 2011 International Breaking Event in Holland as particularly memorable. “I was DJing alongside Rock Steady Crew’s Skeme Richards and he immediately made an effort to make sure my calibre was recognised internationally,” said Lobito.

Back on home turf, the UAE breakin’ scene has been a bit quiet of late. Even before Covid-19, many of the dancers turned professional or became budding talent for agencies. “There’s a new generation waiting,” said Lobito, “but activity has been low. I’m excited for things to come back and to spin for the community again. I’m sitting on thousands of killer breaks and music left unplayed and unheard.”

Get in touch with Lobito via his instagram to connect with the UAE breaking community.

Learn More

The 2002 documentary film ‘The Freshest Kids: A History of the B-Boy’ provides a comprehensive history of B-boying, touching on its evolution and place within hip-hop culture. Or check out the 2007 documentary ‘Planet B-Boy’. It travels with five different crews in their journey to the international breaking competition, Battle of the Year.

Also read: The Best Music Documentaries to Watch Right Now

Main image: Red Bull BC One, Dubai