Author Archives for WCRollerSkate

“Electric Lady” on Wheels

On Sunday, June 8th Roller skaters from throughout the Bay Area rolled in to show off their skills on 8 wheels. D. Miles, San Francisco’s GodFather of Skate served as MC to guide the audience through every solo, pair and group performance. There was even a segment for the audience to come join in and do the “Cupid Shuffle”.

For my performance, I chose one of my favorites songs from the last year, Electric Lady by Janelle Monáe.

You can watch the full performance below from the view of the spectators. (Watch in HD)

Here’s a up-close side view of some of the highlights courtesy Ralph Boethling. (Watch in HD)

You can enjoy other performances from the show with this YouTube playlist.

I’m so grateful to have such talented and lively friends. Hopefully these clips inspire you to have some fun and to roll with soul!!

2Raw’s Annual Spring Skate Jam

This past weekend was the annual 2Raw Spring Skate Jam. It’s the biggest late night skate party in Northern California and folks come out from all parts of the country to roll.

We had a few special guests in the house. The producers from the United Skates Documentary were doing a little filming. We also had “Queen of the South” Joi of the world-famous Atlanta Sk8-a-thon visiting us.

I stole this pic from my good friend Kai pictured here with Tina and Dyana, the United Skates film makers.

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I’m always so busy skating that I forget to take lots of photos and videos, but I wanted to share the few that I did take so you can check it out too.

Sigh. Just look at that beautiful wood floor…

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A rare gap in the action. (I just wanted to see that wood again. lol)

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Rollerdance man Richard Humphrey teaching his smooth steps in the middle.

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“Doin’ it Detroit Style” – I think this is one of my favorite styles to watch. Not only is Detroit my hometown, but I love the classic, smooth moves of the D. These ladies were so fun to watch.

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2 full nights of skating! My legs do not like me anymore, but I wished it would never end.

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It’s my “Skate Knight!!”

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Thanks to the 2Raw event crew and all the wonderful skaters for a great weekend!!

My Skate Life (in GIFs)

1. First of all, it’s NOT a “hobby.”

2. What it feels like when you lace up a perfect fitting pair of skates.

3. When my song comes on…

4. When my song comes on and I don’t have my skates on yet…

5. That time I almost fell, but didn’t…

6. When someone bumps into me or cuts me off because they’re not paying attention…

7. When I see my friend pull off a SICK skate move…

8. When someone gets a new pair of skates…

9. When you nail that new skate move for the first time…

10. The morning after a late-night skate party…

Halftime Show at the Derby

Last weekend I was invited to perform at halftime for the B.ay A.rea D.erby Girls Season Opener!

I had to get used to the floor a bit, but even at last call for alcohol, it was a great crowd.
It was fun to show the derby crowd something a bit different. I have a lot of respect for the derby, but I also think it’s important for women to see that it’s not the only place for them in skating.  Hopefully a few ladies were inspired to get their dance on too!

Music Video Skate Cameos

Roller Skating has always been cool and the proof is in music videos from some of the biggest artists.

Even Beyonce filmed her latest video, “Blow” at a skate rink in Houston.

Check out just some of these classic skate cameos. Don’t blink or your might miss them! I included the time code with the skate scene.

Janet Jackson – Alright (5:40)

George Benson – Give me the Night (Various scenes in the 1st minute or so)

JJ Fad – Supersonic (2:48)

Michael Jackson – Bad (3:54)

Ciara feat. Missy Elliott – 1, 2 Step (2:45)

Black History Month

In honor of Black History month, I wanted to share an important moment in skating history.

“Black people were first allowed to roller skate indoors at the Savoy Ballroom in Chicago’s Bronzeville community on December 8, 1938 thanks to Jimmie Davis, the manager of The Savoy at that time.” From http://www.marciewrites.com

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Photo: Lee Russell

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In 2012, skate legend Richard Humphrey beautifully recreated the vibe of 1940s Chicago for his 60th birthday party. It was an honor to be a part of this celebration.

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Photo: Randy Wong

Thank you to these brave pioneers who paved the way for us to unite in our love of skate!

Skate Bangerz

Here’s 5 hard-hitting bangerz to bring out your inner skate beast.

  1. Mary J. Blige – Love @ 1st Sight
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtJVwHjydi0
  2. DMX ft.Method Man, Nas, & Ja Rule – Grand Finale
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNLfwrFJhSI
  3. Busta Rhymes ft T-Pain – Hustler’s Anthem
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U90rSXHlkhw
  4. Dwele – Grown
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZqKfjYm2cQ
  5. E-40 – Money on my mind
    http://youtu.be/DVJCF5tj3Qw

What skate songs get you pumped?? Leave a comment! I’m always looking to update my playlists.

An Appeal to Skate Inventors – Toe Protection

When I dance, I do alot of THIS:

Spin Stop

It takes a toll on the toes of my skates. I don’t use a toe stop, so typical toe protection options won’t work for me.

Currently, I use TUFF TOE, a molded piece of plastic designed for baseball cleats.

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It’s ok, but I have to glue the piece permanently to my boot. So it’s not pretty and I don’t get full protection, since it’s made to fit the inside portion of the foot.

Does anyone make toe protection for skates without toe stops?
What solutions have you found?
Please share!

If you’re a clever inventor type with ties to the skate industry, please create something, then TAKE MY MONEY!! 😉