Dance Mogul Magazine Exclusive…
With dance roots originating from the Broadway Dance Center in NYC, Rick Long has extensive training in the dance arts. Rick specializes in dancehall, jazz, and hip-hop styles. He has studied with notable choreographers, ranging from the likes of Frank Hatchett to Wade Robinson. “Dance is in my blood”, Rick constantly states. He was born into dance; his mother, as well as many elders in his family, are all dancers. Rick Long has performed in over 50 major cities, some of which are international. He has danced and choreographed for artists like Lisa Lisa, and Daddy Yankee. He has performed on the same stage for Salt-N-Pepa, Trey Songz, and SWV. Rick Long was recently in the feature film Step Up 3D.
As a choreographer, Rick’s style can be described as sensually artistic, yet with a smooth groove and a Caribbean swagger. When asked what about dance motivates him, his response is simple, “Dancing makes me tick because it has always put me in a joyful place; it constantly reminds me to sustain confidence in myself. I have complete control over it.” Currently, Rick Long teaches dancehall and hip-hop classes at Pearl Studios. He also teaches at David Barton’s exclusive fitness gyms in New York City. Rick was recently selected as one of the models for the 2013 New York Fashion Week, working with designer Adrian Alicea.
Dance Mogul: When did you develop a passion for dance?
Rick Long: I developed a passion for dance starting when I was about 5 years old. I remember my mom got married, and at the reception, one of my uncle’s bands were playing. I just couldn’t sit still. I was moving and dancing in my chair, so my Uncle Frank Hatchett, put me on the table to dance. And I danced. I did it with everyone watching and cheering me to “break it down”. I think that’s where it started for me.
Dance Mogul: Who were some of your early inspirations?
Rick Long: My inspiration comes from, my Uncle, Frank Hatchett. He is a very well known and famous Jazz teacher, dancer, and choreographer. He is the Co-Founder of Broadway Dance Center. Ever since I was a little boy, he would send for the family to come down to New York City from Hartford, CT to see his dance showcase he would put on once a year. I always told myself one day when I got older, I would be up on that stage performing. In 2007, that dream was fulfilled, getting to perform my Uncle’s choreography at a Broadway Dance Center Showcase.
Dance Mogul: Who helped you develop your style?
Rick Long: My style was developed from a variety of places I’ve lived in my life. Starting in Hartford, CT going to Reggae basement parties – or “bashments” – to the backyard parties in Alabama. My style and groove are Dancehall and Hip Hop meets the South Swag.
Dance Mogul: Give us some history on how you incorporate Dancehall into your style?
Rick Long: I grew up on it! I would sneak out of the house to hit Dancehall basement parties as a pre-teen. So I always incorporate whining my hips, Dancehall style. There is always some part of my choreo where you will see that Rick Long whine in there!
Dance Mogul: What was it like being in Step Up 3D?
Rick Long: Being in Step Up 3D was a great experience. Seeing and meeting so many talented dancers and seeing the diversity of styles was amazing. From the breakers, Hip Hop, krumpers, Jazz, etc. Just so much talent!
Dance Mogul: Tell us about your opportunities with some of the great artists you’ve had the chance to work with?
Rick Long: Lisa Lisa has been my greatest experience when working with an artist thus far. Not saying the others I worked with weren’t great, but Lisa Lisa has become more of a mother figure to me. I actually call her Mom sometimes. She truly appreciates her dancers and consistently stays working and performing to this day. I’ve been dancing with her over 6 years and became her choreographer for her stage show within a year after I started with her.
Dance Mogul: What was it like to walk during Fashion Week 2013?
Rick Long: I was a little nervous because I’m used to movement with dance, so just walking down a runway was a challenge. So much so, that I wanted to break out into a dance so bad, hoping that I wouldn’t be so nervous and feel a bit more comfortable. The experience was amazing, and if asked, I would do it again.
Dance Mogul: What advice would you have for the next generation of dancers that want to be successful?
Rick Long: Do what you feel in your heart. Do what shows who you truly are and not what you think everyone wants you to be. Take your own path!
Dance Mogul: Is there anyone you want to thank?
Rick Long: I would like to thank my MOM, for giving me one of the best tips of advice – never giving up on myself! I would also thank my grandmother who is watching me from above, rooting me on, like she did when she was here on Earth.
