Unveiling the Legend of Tommy the Clown: The Godfather of Krumping

Tommy the Clown: The Godfather of Krumping

In the world of hip-hop, there are certain figures who have left an indelible mark on the culture. One such figure is Tommy the Clown, a colorful afro’d character who has been making waves in the industry recently, particularly with his appearances alongside Kendrick Lamar.

But who is Tommy the Clown, and why is he so important to the Los Angeles hip-hop scene? Born Tommy Johnson in Detroit in 1969, he moved to South Central Los Angeles where he pioneered the “clowning” style of dance in the early 1990s. This style later evolved into what is now known as “krumping,” a high-energy form of dance that has become a staple in hip-hop culture.

Tommy’s influence goes beyond just dance, however. He has created a community of dancers known as the “Hip Hop Clowns,” who perform at parties and events throughout Los Angeles. What sets Tommy apart is his focus on using dance as a way to promote peace and unity in the community.

One of Tommy’s most famous events is the Battle Zone, a dance competition where crews from all over Los Angeles come together to showcase their skills. This event was even featured in the 2005 documentary “Rize,” which brought international attention to the krumping and clowning movements.

Today, Tommy continues to inspire young dancers through his Tommy the Clown Hip Hop Academy, where he offers classes for those looking to express themselves through dance. His legacy as the Godfather of Krumping is secure, and his impact on the hip-hop world will be felt for years to come.