From the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, a dance sensation known as the “Smeeze” has emerged, captivating hearts and dance floors worldwide. Created in 2009 by Oakland native Denzel “Chonkster” Davis, this unique move has transformed from a local phenomenon into a global dance craze, celebrated by everyone from professional dancers to everyday enthusiasts. The Smeeze isn’t just a series of steps; it’s a high-energy expression of joy and a testament to Oakland’s rich cultural contributions.
What is the Smeeze Dance?
Denzel Davis describes the Smeeze as more than just a dance – it’s a full-body workout disguised as fun. The foundation of the Smeeze lies in a simple knee bend, but it quickly evolves into a dynamic sequence of side-to-side movements, punctuated by hops and bounces, all synchronized to the rhythm of the music. Its infectious energy makes it a natural “party starter,” as Davis aptly puts it, instantly injecting enthusiasm and movement into any gathering. The beauty of the Smeeze lies in its accessibility and its ability to bring people together through the universal language of dance.
From Oakland to Global Stages: The Rise of the Smeeze
While Davis conceived the Smeeze over a decade ago, its ascent to global recognition has been a more recent phenomenon, particularly in the last few years. Davis credits modern digital platforms for propelling his creation into the viral stratosphere. The dance move gained significant momentum around eight years after its inception, breaking into mainstream consciousness and capturing the attention of prominent figures in the entertainment and sports industries.
One of the most significant moments in the Smeeze’s journey was its performance by the world-renowned Jabbawockeez dance crew during the 2018 NBA Finals, when the Golden State Warriors were competing. This high-profile feature amplified the Smeeze’s visibility, introducing it to a massive global audience. Since then, the dance has been embraced and performed by a diverse range of celebrities, including music icons like Ciara and Janet Jackson, and actress Gabrielle Union, further cementing its status as a legitimate dance trend.
Rooted in Oakland: Youth UpRising and the Power of Dance
For Denzel Davis, dance is more than just a passion; it’s been a transformative force in his life. He openly acknowledges that dance served as a positive alternative to the challenges of growing up in Oakland. Davis emphasizes the crucial role of Youth UpRising, a local youth center, in nurturing his talent and keeping him focused. This organization provided him with a safe and supportive environment to hone his skills and stay away from negative influences.
“Dancing really saved my life from the streets of Oakland,” Davis shared, highlighting the profound impact of his art form and his community center. Youth UpRising offered not just a space for creative expression but also a sanctuary where young people could feel secure and explore their potential.
His teammates at Youth UpRising have witnessed firsthand the Smeeze’s incredible journey from a local dance studio to a global phenomenon. Yaameen Muhammad, a fellow dancer, notes the widespread adoption of the Smeeze across different cities and regions, from New York to Miami, Texas, and Atlanta. This widespread embrace is particularly meaningful for Oakland’s dance community. “It means a lot, ’cause it shows we got more identities besides than just the rapping scene, the acting scene, and the sports scene, we also got the dancing scene too,” Muhammad explained, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Oakland’s diverse artistic contributions.
Youth UpRising: Fostering Oakland’s Creative Talent
Youth UpRising has been a cornerstone of the Oakland community since 2007, providing a vital space for teenagers to explore various forms of artistic expression, including dance, multimedia, and other creative pursuits. Beyond arts programs, the center offers essential health and wellness services, academic support, and resources for job placement and housing assistance, making it a comprehensive support system for young people in Oakland.
Terrance Tallie, the multimedia production manager at Youth UpRising, is a testament to the center’s positive impact. Having benefited from the center’s services as a youth, he now works there, helping to empower the next generation. Tallie points out that while Oakland faces challenges, the city is brimming with talent and positive energy. “Oakland is a very dangerous city but the love is overshadowed by the negativity. We have so many different youth that are very talented in many different aspects,” Tallie stated, underscoring the importance of platforms like Youth Uprising in showcasing the city’s strengths.
Davis hopes his story and the success of the Smeeze will inspire more young people in Oakland and beyond to find positive outlets for their creativity. He is passionate about elevating Oakland’s artistic voice and demonstrating the city’s capacity for innovation and positivity. “A boy from Oakland, California created it in his bedroom and has the whole world doing it,” Davis proudly proclaims. “There’s really a lot of positivity in Oakland. It’s created like a lot. Myself, I just push the good.”
Conclusion: The Smeeze – A Dance of Joy and Oakland Pride
The Smeeze Dance stands as a vibrant example of how creativity, born in local communities like Oakland, can resonate globally. It’s more than just a viral trend; it’s a dance that embodies joy, energy, and the spirit of Oakland. Denzel “Chonkster” Davis’s creation has not only provided a fun and engaging dance move for the world but has also shone a light on the positive contributions emerging from Oakland and the vital role of community centers like Youth UpRising in nurturing young talent. The Smeeze invites everyone to join in, experience the Oakland energy, and celebrate the unifying power of dance.
