Freestyle Session Break Dance

Freestyle Session: The Cradle of Break Dance in Crew vs Crew Competitions

The Freestyle Session It's one of the most iconic and respected breaking competitions in the world. Founded in 1997 in the United States, this battle has become a benchmark in breakdance culture, known for its crew vs. crew format and for bringing together some of the best bboy and bgirl groups in the world.

Unlike other competitions such as the Red Bull BC One, which focuses on individual battles, the Freestyle Session celebrates the essence of team breaking, where strategy, creativity, and connection between dancers play a key role.

In this article, we'll explore the history, format, and significance of the Freestyle Session in the evolution of breakdancing.

History and Evolution

The Freestyle Session It was created in 1997 by Cross One, a Bboy, organizer, and DJ from the California hip-hop scene. His goal was to restore breaking to its original essence of crew battles, promoting unity, creativity, and competitiveness within the culture.

Over time, the event grew and expanded internationally, with editions in countries such as Japan, Brazil, South Korea, and Spain. Currently, Freestyle Session World Finals It is one of the most anticipated tournaments of the year, attracting crews from all over the world looking to prove who is the best on the scene.

Since its inception, the competition has evolved in several ways, adapting to new generations of bboys and bgirls without losing its underground essence.

Competition Format

The Freestyle Session is distinguished by its crew vs. crew format, where breaking teams compete in intense battles until they reach the grand finale.

1. Regional Qualifiers

To participate in the World Finals, groups must qualify through regional events held in different countries. The winning crews from each qualifier earn a ticket to the grand finals.

2. World Final

In the Freestyle Session World Final, teams compete in a single-elimination tournament. Each crew must face different opponents in multi-round battles until only one is crowned champion.

Judges evaluate each battle based on the following criteria:

  • Connection and teamwork: Coordination between crew members.
  • Technique: Execution of movements with cleanliness and control.
  • Creativity: Originality in sets and group transitions.
  • Musicality: Ability to dance in sync with the music.
  • Strategy and response: How a team responds to the opponent's moves.

It's important to mention that each crew must showcase their best repertoire and strategy in each battle to advance in the competition.

Legendary Winners

Then over the years, the Freestyle Session has seen some of the best crews in the history of breaking crowned. Among the most notable champions are:

  • Rock Force Crew (EE.UU.) – Winners of the first edition in 1997.
  • MZK (Mighty Zulu Kingz) (EE.UU.) – One of the most consistent crews in the history of the competition.
  • Jinjo Crew (South Korea) – Multiple champions with a dynamic, powerful, creative style and very strong choreography.
  • Monster Bboys (International) – A group made up of some of the strongest bboys in the world.
  • Havikoro Crew (EE.UU.) – Pioneers of the aggressive and energetic style.
  • Style Elements (EE.UU.) — They changed the game in breaking with their creativity, originality, style, execution, etc.  

However, each year, new crews challenge the legends, keeping the event competitive.

Impact of the Freestyle Session on Breaking Culture

The Freestyle Session It's not just a competition, but an event that has influenced the growth and evolution of breaking worldwide. By maintaining the crew vs. crew format, it has helped preserve the essence of hip-hop and the community spirit within the culture.

Furthermore, its expansion to different countries has allowed bboys and bgirls from all over the world the opportunity to compete on a high-level stage and connect with the international scene.

Another key point is the relationship of the Freestyle Session with other hip-hop culture events, such as MC battles, DJs and graffiti, creating a space where all disciplines come together in one place.

How to Participate or View the Event

If you want to be part of the Freestyle Session, here's how:

  • Participate: Form a crew and compete in regional qualifiers.
  • Watch the event: The World Final is broadcast on platforms such as Freestyle Session's official YouTube and social media channels.

Conclusion

Even Freestyle Session It is one of the most influential competitions in the history of breaking. Its format crew vs. crew Not only has it kept the essence of hip-hop alive, but it's also been a space where generations of Bboys and Bgirls have been able to showcase their talent, creativity, and teamwork on a global stage. In fact, this event has helped consolidate legendary crews, fostering the evolution of breaking and promoting the growth of the community internationally.

Although it should be noted that beyond the competition, the Freestyle Session Break Dance represents the core values ​​of breaking: unity, respect, discipline and passionEach edition of the event is a reminder that breaking is more than just a dance; it's a lifestyle that connects people around the world through music, movement, and hip-hop culture.

If you're passionate about breaking and want to keep learning more about the world's most important competitions, feel free to follow us on our social media. Share this article with other breaking enthusiasts and stay up to date with the latest news and events in the scene. See you on the dance floor, where the true spirit of breaking comes to life! 🔥👊

If you liked the story of the Break Dance Freestyle Session in the United States here! you can find other historical events.