The group consists of ten members; five are Filipino, including: Rainen Paguio, Chris Gatdula, Phil Tayag. Randy Bernal, and Joe Larot. Although three out of the six performing on ABDC were Filipino, the team is known to be predominantly Filipino, and the name of the group was associated as such. In a sense, the popular show gave Filipinos exposure throughout all of the United States. Media has played a huge part in this, influencing Filipino Americans by exposing talented people of their culture. Although Filipinos are the second largest Asian community in the United States and have been dancing for years, it is interesting to see how much publicity needed to be generated in order to gain the nation's attention. This particular dance crew reached millions of viewers, who turned into millions of fans, wearing shirts proudly displaying their name. The JabbaWockeeZ were special because although they didn't exactly begin a dance movement, their publicity now influences our generation of Filipino Americans who are gaining more respect as dancers – ironic, considering their past.
Historically, Filipinos came to America and had to work low-paying jobs. They experienced a lot of racism, and were stereotyped to be wild and barbaric. A characteristic that helped attribute to this was their affinity for dancing. Beginning in the 1920s until the early 1930s, Filipino men frequented areas called taxi dance-halls. These men came to pay and dance with women as a way to relieve stress and let loose after a hard day's work. These halls were present mostly in the city, where Filipinos migrated for job opportunities. At these popular American institutions, nearly a quarter of its attendees were Filipinos. It was a form of socialization for the immigrants, who were usually denied entry into other areas. Filipinos would purchase dance tickets, select a woman within the group of taxi dancers, and dance with her to a live band. Dancing was a form of relaxation, and Filipinos were good at it. However, their dancing skills drew attention from both taxi dancers and other patrons – particularly white males. This talent threatened them, who began fights out of jealousy. They claimed the dancing was lewd, even sexual. However, it was actually the women who were aggressive; they were highly attracted to these polite, talented dancers. After a while, too much violence erupted, and many dance-halls began to turn Filipinos away. This was a double blow; not only did they lose a popular source of socialization, but it was due to envy over their ability to dance well. White Americans could not stand the idea that these poor, immigrant workers could possibly excel at anything, much less a harmless recreational activity.
The interest in dancing may have started when the Filipino immigrants began to assimilate to the westernized world, focusing on popular culture. Or it may have evolved from a gene, rooted from the Tribal dances of their ancestors. Or perhaps because the Filipino society embraces dancing, children were taught at a young age. Regardless, there is one thing for certain: whether it is a Filipino's love of dancing, singing, emceeing, or deejaying, their musical talents thrive. Today, dancing is a talent that is appreciated throughout the country. It is seen as beautiful and artistic. Numerous colleges focus on dance, and most high schools have programs available for students who wish to learn it. There are careers as dance teachers, as well as dancers in different genres. Specifically, many Filipinos are known for their talent in hip-hop dancing. This became known to the general public when the group, JabbaWockeeZ, became the first winner of MTV's ABDC. With a prize of $100,000 and massive amounts of publicity, they won their well-deserved fame. JabbaWockeeZ showcased their unbelievable talent, and were brought to the top by American voters and judges. It was not just Filipino-Americans who stood in awe, but the majority of whoever followed the show and decided to show support. This team does more than symbolize the Filipinos' assimilation into the American culture, and does more than display Filipino ability; it is a progressive step in which America gives Filipinos respect, and applauds them for their success.
Appearances in America
- Appeared in a Pepsi and Gatorade commercial
- Guest Performance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show
- Guest Performance on Live with Regis and Kelly
- Cameo in the movie Step Up 2: The Streets
- Launched clothing line
- Performed at the University of Florida's "Gator Growl"
Appearances in the Philippines
- Balitang America appearance on The Filipino Channel (TFC)
- Appeared on Adobo Nation on TFC
- Guest performance on Wowowee
