The Tiger Girl dance team from Louisiana State University caught the internet’s eye with their championship performance of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” at the “Super Bowl of Dance”.
The LSU dance team marked history by clinching their fourth title at the Universal Dance Association Hip Hop Competition, showcasing another remarkable routine at the prestigious “Super Bowl of Dance”.
During the 2024 event in Orlando, Florida, the Tiger Girls presented an awe-inspiring tribute to Michael Jackson, blending traditional dance moves with modern interpretations of the late legend’s iconic choreography.
Dressed in white satin suits, sparkling ties, Nike sneakers, and classic fedoras, the Tiger Girls resembled performers from a Michael Jackson music video. Their attire perfectly complemented their homage to the King of Pop as they flawlessly executed the renowned “Smooth Criminal”.
The song, featured in Jackson’s 1988 album “Bad”, is not only known for its infectious beats but also for the physically demanding dance sequences in the music video.
In an interview with Southern Living, head coach Kandace Hale expressed no hesitation when the team’s choreographers, Carsen Lowe and Sammy McFadden, proposed using Jackson’s song: “It’s a classic,” she mentioned, highlighting the team’s deep admiration for Michael Jackson.
Phenomenal
The LSU dancers, renowned for their exceptional rhythm and unmatched groove, filled every moment with electrifying energy. A standout moment in their routine was when the entire team formed a precise diagonal arrangement and flawlessly executed Jackson’s distinctive hip thrusts in unison.
In an Instagram post about the team’s victory, the choreographers shared their thoughts: “To embody an icon like Michael and bring his essence and power to the present posed the most challenging path we could have taken.”
The post continued: “But with the community that this team represents, including the choreographers, consultants, and coaches, we were compelled to strive for the utmost excellence.”
Fans raved about the team’s performance, praising their “spot-on precision” and “incredible” display.
“I can’t stop watching this routine. I’m totally hooked!!!” wrote an online user in the team’s Instagram comments.
Another individual shared: “The choreographer of this routine deserves a Grammy,” while a third remarked, “I got chills from watching this. Absolutely amazing!”
Hale commended her team for the win, stating: “Our theme this year was ‘undeniably us’. In today’s world, everyone seems to strive to be like others. We aimed to excel at what we do best.”
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