Bogle: The Godfather of Jamaican Dancehall Dance
By THE REGGAE MUSEUM.COM
When it comes to the history of Jamaican dancehall culture, few names resonate as powerfully as Gerald Levy, affectionately known as Bogle, also referred to as Mr. Wacky. He was more than just a dancer—he was a pioneer, a cultural icon, and the originator of countless dance moves that have not only shaped the Jamaican dancehall scene but also influenced global dance culture. Known for his unique flair, charisma, and unmatched creativity, Bogle remains one of the most influential figures in dancehall history.
Early Life and Roots in Dancehall
Gerald “Bogle” Levy was born on August 22, 1964, in Trench Town, Kingston, Jamaica, one of the country’s most legendary cultural hubs. Trench Town, famous for producing reggae legends like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, provided a rich environment for creativity and expression. Bogle grew up immersed in this culture of rhythm, movement, and rebellion, which laid the foundation for his future as a dancer.
Bogle’s dance journey began in his teenage years, as he frequented local street parties and dancehall sessions. He was quickly recognized for his magnetic personality and inventive dance moves. As dancehall music evolved in the 1980s and 1990s, Bogle’s artistry flourished, making him the face and body of a movement.
The Creation of Dancehall Moves
Bogle revolutionized dancehall with his ability to create original, signature dance moves that aligned perfectly with the beats of the genre. His moves were not just steps—they were expressions of identity, community, and the vibrant energy of Jamaican street culture.
Some of his most famous creations include:
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Bogle – His signature dance and arguably the most iconic move in dancehall history.
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Wacky Dip
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Urkle Dance
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Row Di Boat
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Jerry Springer
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World Dance
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Pop Di Collar
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Willie Bounce (which was later popularized by Elephant Man as a tribute after Bogle’s death)
Bogle’s dances were not only innovative but also had the power to inspire musicians. Artists like Beenie Man, Elephant Man, and Mr. Vegas often referenced Bogle and his moves in their lyrics. Dancehall music and dance became inextricably linked, with Bogle at the epicenter.
The Cultural Impact of Bogle
In the 1990s, Bogle’s name was synonymous with dancehall dancing. He was a member of the Black Roses Crew, a legendary group from Kingston known for their influence on dancehall fashion, style, and street credibility. The crew, led by Bogle, was a staple at all major dancehall events and street dances.
What set Bogle apart was his consistency and creativity. He was able to produce new moves almost every week, and dancers across the island would wait eagerly to learn “what Bogle drop now.” He essentially turned Jamaican dancehall into a dynamic dance laboratory, where the latest moves would spread like wildfire through neighborhoods and nightclubs.
Dancehall’s global expansion in the late ’90s and early 2000s—especially in places like Japan, Europe, and North America—owes much to Bogle’s influence. International dancers and choreographers began traveling to Jamaica to learn from the source, with Bogle being the undisputed master.
Death and Legacy
Tragically, Bogle’s life was cut short on January 20, 2005, when he was shot and killed after leaving a nightclub in Kingston. His death sent shockwaves through the dancehall community and sparked mourning throughout Jamaica and the diaspora.
In the wake of his death, tributes poured in from all corners of the music and dance world. Elephant Man released the hit single “Willie Bounce” in his honor, and artists like Beenie Man and Bounty Killer spoke out about the magnitude of the loss. Despite controversies and rivalries that surrounded the circumstances of his death, his legacy as a dance innovator remains untarnished.
Bogle’s Enduring Influence
To this day, Bogle’s name lives on in every dancehall step performed around the world. His moves are taught in dance studios globally, and his image is celebrated in murals across Kingston. Events and competitions continue to honor his contributions, and documentaries and books about dancehall consistently reference his trailblazing role.
Bogle’s artistry helped solidify dance as an integral part of dancehall culture, influencing artists like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Drake, all of whom have incorporated dancehall-inspired movements into their performances.
Conclusion
Bogle was more than a dancer—he was a movement. He embodied the soul of Jamaican dancehall, turning ordinary steps into powerful cultural symbols. His creativity, flair, and dedication made him the “Dancehall Dancing King” and a cornerstone of Jamaica’s artistic legacy.
In honoring Bogle, we honor a spirit of innovation, resilience, and the joy of movement. He remains a true legend whose rhythm continues to echo on dance floors across the globe.
“If Bogle never dance it, it nuh real.” – Elephant Man
