April 15th 2024.
Sean Bankhead, a seven-time VMA-nominated choreographer, recently joined BLACK ENTERPRISE's The Culture Shift to discuss his impact on the pop music industry through his unique and captivating dance routines. With viral music videos like Normani's "Wild Side," Cardi B's "Up," Lil Nas X's "Industry Baby," and Victoria Monet's "On My Mama" under his belt, Bankhead has solidified himself as one of the most sought-after choreographers in the industry.
Born in Philadelphia and raised in Atlanta, Bankhead credits his relocation to "the A" for introducing him to a city whose culture would shape his successful career in entertainment. From mimicking dance routines in music videos as a child to training at Atlanta's renowned Dance 411 Studios and receiving guidance from the legendary Fatima Robinson, Bankhead always had a passion for dance and choreography, even when he didn't believe it was a viable career option.
"I never had a specific moment where I said, 'I want to be a dancer, I'm going to be a choreographer,'" Bankhead shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE. "I just kept getting more opportunities to dance and choreograph, and when I got to Atlanta and started working at Dance 411 Studios, I saw a clear path that I could make this a career and make a name for myself."
Bankhead's journey in the industry began as a background dancer in Tiffany Evans' "Promise Ring" before moving on to perform with some of the biggest names in music like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, and Missy Elliott. In 2014, he received his first VMA nomination for choreographing Fifth Harmony's "Down," and his work with the group would lead him to meet his "muse," Normani, with whom he created viral dances for her singles "Motivation," "Dancing with a Stranger," and "Wild Side."
During his interview, Bankhead also discussed the experience of being nominated for multiple VMAs without winning, the importance of artist development for live performances, and the humbling moment of taking off his choreographer hat to join Usher's dancers for the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show.
"Sometimes people are afraid to dream big because they don't know how they're going to get there," Bankhead shared. "But if you have a dream and trust in God, everything will fall into place."
For Bankhead, performing with Usher at the Super Bowl was a full-circle moment, as he had previously auditioned to tour with the singer when he was 19 or 20 years old but didn't make the cut. However, he believes that everything happens in God's timing and encourages others to stay focused, have a vision, be diligent, and work hard to achieve their goals.
To hear more about Bankhead's journey in the industry, his favorite dance routine, and what he has in store for the rest of 2024, check out the full interview.
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