When Robin Thicke visualized the concept of his "Give It 2 U" video, his wife, actress Paula Patton, came up with the great idea to include Historically Black College or University (HBCU) Dance teams. The unique and tantalizing style of HBCU dance teams is not easily duplicated; it can only be obtained by performing at an HBCU school. As a result, artists and production companies are hiring actual HBCU dancers for their live performances, videos and movies. Robin Thicke can now be added to the list of artists who have done so, which includes superstars like Madonna. The video production company, Black Dog Films, sought assistance from HBCU Dance Corporation to find the teams and seal the deal. HBCU Dance Corporation, founded by Keelia L. Brown and Sharmekia Brooks, is a non-profit organization that inspires, assists, and teaches collegiate level dancers as well as high school dancers who desire to dance at a Historically Black College or University through dance training camps, scholarships, team sponsorships, audition assistance and more. However, it was HBCU Dance’s connection services and detailed knowledge of the HBCU dance community that made them a great fit for identifying and selecting two teams for the shoot. "The selection process for us was not difficult as we were only planning to recommend the top dance teams," confirmed HBCU Dance founder, Keelia Brown. "The Albany State University Golden Passionettes and the Alabama State University Stingettes are both reputable and talented teams, so we knew they’d deliver a great performance!" explains Sharmekia Brooks, HBCU Dance Co-founder. The Albany State University Golden Passionettes are versatile and accomplished dancers, and have won several awards because of their outstanding dance technique on and off the field. Those awards include:
- Ranked in the Top 5 HBCU Dance Teams in 2012 on HBCUDance.com
- Won HBCU Dance's Best in Stands 2011 (tied with ASU Stingettes)
- Won HBCU Dance's Best Uniforms 2011
- Performed at the Honda Battle of the Bands (multiple years)
- Performed in the Honda Battle of the Bands Commercial
The Albany State University Marching Ram Show Band (M.R.S.B), as it is affectionately known, is under the direction of Mr. Michael Decuir. M.R.S.B is touted as one of the best HBCU performing bands in the nation by all who have seen them in action. They march in regional and local parades and always put on a high-stepping show. They have made several appearances in the Honda All-Star Battle of the Bands and at the state Capitol building in Atlanta, Ga. Alabama State University’s Stingettes was also ranked as one of the top dance teams in 2012. The Stingettes are well known and recognized across the southern region for their unique dance style. Their accomplishments include:
- Ranked in the Top 5 HBCU Dance Teams in 2012 on HBCUDance.com
- Won HBCU Dance’s Best in Stands 2011 (tied with ASU Passionettes)
- Won HBCU Dance’s Best Captain 2011
- Performed at the Honda Battle of the Bands 2006
The Alabama State University Marching Hornets is under the direction of Dr. James B. Oliver, who has led the band to receive national recognition as a result of their presentation of a sparkling halftime show, has also participated in the first Honda Battle of the Bands, and appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres' talk show. Kiana Holman, (Passionettes' Co-Captain 2013-2014 squad) said, "This is truly an awesome experience for us and we are grateful to have been given this opportunity. I would like to continue to do this again and again." Kenay Phillips (Passionettes' Captain 2013-2014) stated "It was a lot of hard work but it was well worth it!" With 8-10hr rehearsals and 12-14hr shoot days (on set), the ladies put in a lot of time, hard work and passion to make this video a success. Robin Thicke verbally expressed his gratitude in addition to taking several pictures, conversing with everyone, distributing his new cd and ensuring that the ladies were comfortable on set. Marc Chenail, production supervisor for Black Dog Films provided feedback to HBCU Dance Corporation after the shoot, stating, "We couldn’t be happier with you [HBCU Dance Corp] and your amazing teams’ participation in Robin’s video. Everyone was super professional and completely cooperative, which tremendously helped make this shoot a success..." Not only did the video shoot have positive impacts on the dancers, but it’s also providing exposure for their administrative staff. Albany State student and choreographer, Mr. Dee Perkins, and former coach for the Stingettes, Lisa Porter, helped choreograph many of the groups’ routines and formations during the video. Both are being credited as choreographers for their work. Robin Thicke’s "Give It 2 U" video is rumored to air on August 25, 2013 during the MTV Video Music Awards (VMA). For more information about HBCU Dance Corporation and various HBCU dance teams, go to:
http://www.HBCUDance.com Please note that this is not a school event and is not endorsed by Albany State University or Alabama State University. These young ladies were hired as dance team performers.
