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Robert "Bobby" Gurley

187 Crew

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The full interview is available on the finding aid and will be available at the Newberry soon.

Newberry Library

Bobby, A west side Chicagoan born and raised, and founding member of the renowned 187 Crew, is respected as a central figure in Chicago’s Footwork and street dance community. His singular dance trajectory, beginning over 35 years ago in neighborhood battles and talent shows, led him to join his first dance group, Main Attraction, in the 1990s. He went on to dance with Together We Jack (TWJ) and later Phaze Squad, which ultimately evolved into 187. Bobby has performed in a range of locally significant cultural events and productions, including the Bud Billiken Parade, Austin Parade, Wala Cam TV, the Royce Glamour Talent Show, and the Elmond & Company Show. Beyond Chicagoland, his stage credits include the Jerk Boys Concert, Soulja Boy Concert, and Chris Brown’s Dance Down Event, as well as appearances on America’s Got Talent, America’s Best Dance Crew, and BT Blaze the Stage. Bobby has been showcased in music videos and dance films, including Pimp Like Me by Twista, Watch My Feet by Dude ’n Nem, Detroit vs. Chicago: Juke vs. Jit, and FootworKINGz: Take Flight. Known for his precision, power, and deep connection to Chicago’s dance culture, Bobby continues to inspire the next generation of dancers.

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