Steppin It Up’s first interviewee, one of Los Angeles first instructors/ promoters and the first person to establish and build the only dedicated dance studio and social club in L.A. for steppers, Mr. Terance Jones.

Eight years ago Terance and his partner, Garry Fields, were the 2BFC (Two Brothers From Chicago) who initially were teaching boppin, which is the previous version of steppin. By the time I began steppin, five years later, Terance had built an organization of his own, Los Angeles Steppers Connection, and was teaching the art of steppin. Each time I see Terance he always have a bright smile and warm hug. With his longevity and experience he intends to continue helping the steppin community grow. Check out his interview.

Nikki: What made you become involved with steppin?

Terance: I grew up with stepping in Chicago its always been a part of my youth to adult life.

Nikki: How long have you been in the steppin community?

Terance: I believe it was 2002 when I started my first class in L.A.

Nikki: What do you feel has been your greatest accomplishment as an instructor and/or promoter?

Terance: As an instructor it would be laying the foundation of teaching the fundamentals of stepping to both the L.A. and Inland Empire. As a promoter it was the Stepping On The Queen Mary events. We hosted the Michael Baisden National Steppers tour. Our 2nd event was called "Stepping Under The Stars". My current project of establishing and building the only dedicated dance studio and social club in Los Angeles for steppers by steppers is what I'm most proud of at the moment. Stay tuned (smile).

Nikki: What is your favorite memory?

Terance: Seeing the look of amazement when someone finally gets to the level of stepping they didn't think they could.

Nikki: Any memories that make you laugh?

Terance: Having people laugh at themselves when the see their stepping cool face for the first time.

Nikki: Name a stepper or two, local or national, who you love to watch that you feel really represent steppin.

Terance: On a national pick it would be Dave Maxx. On the local side it would be Big Al.

Nikki: Who taught you how to step?

Terance: I learned my basics going to steppers sets in Chicago and emulating the best steppers. I also have worked with Pete Frazier (Majestic Gents) and Bruce Dyer (Steppers Alliance) to focus on smoothness and style.

Nikki: What would you like to see added or more of in our steppin community?

Terance: I would like to see more men get involved to help grow the dance also more exposure to new people to experience the best of what stepping has to offer.

Nikki: What about taken out or less of?

Terance: The "Unhealthy competition" spirit that divides us instead of us working together.

Nikki: What else do you think people should know about you?

Terance: It would be my main focus to share "The Dance, The Music, The Style and The Culture of CHICAGO Style Stepping with everyone

Thank you Terance for taking the time out to do this interview. I wish you the best in your effort to continue to keep steppin it up here in L.A. with your instruction and promotions. I’ll be seeing you soon on the dance floor.

For more information about Terance check out his site at Mylasc.com.