Asuka Kondoh is a Latin Ballroom beauty from Irvine, CA who added a graceful sass to Season 5. Listen up she talks about her bling, her future nickname and most importantly, her memories of Michael Jackson.

When you heard the news, how did you react?
I didn’t think it was true. He’s such a huge legend, so you don’t expect that kind of news. Once everyone started talking, I thought, “This can’t be happening.” I was in disbelief. It didn’t even register at first. It took a while for it to sink in. Everyone was in shock.

Your personal fav Michael Jackson songs are…
“Thriller.” He changed the music industry with it. There was no one like him. He’s so unique in what he did. He’s not just a dancer; he’s a creator.  “Man in the Mirror.” I love dancing to it. It’s the perfect rhumba song.
“Beat it.” When I performed to this, I wasn’t just listening to it. I was really dancing. I have a connection with this song.

How has Michael affected your life as a dancer? 
He’s one of the best dancers and one of the best artists in the world. All of us can relate to him in some way, whether it’s in music or dance.

Can you moonwalk?
I tried. I can’t do it. I think I’ve been trying for over ten years now. It’s hard!

How did you think the King of Pop influenced SYTYCD?
It’s funny. I was thinking earlier, how he was mentioned on the show, before this all happened. One of the contestants showed himself dressed as Michael when he was a kid in his package. SYTYCD doesn’t just stick to one genre. It’s the only show that doesn’t. Everyone on the show experiences unique dance styles-just like Michael.

Michael was an icon of our time because of his authenticity. What’s your style?
I consider myself bold and sexy, but elegant.

How do you think that style helped you keep going on the show?
I don’t think other contestants had the same style as I did. I don’t think any of them had the same sass that I had, and it’s not just because I’m a Latin dancer.

What would be your version of MJ’s white glove?
For me, it would be bling. Lots of crystal and rhinestones.

Where’s your home studio? 
San Francisco, which is where I was born.

If Michael is the King of Pop, what title would you own someday?
The Queen of Hip… I’m being sarcastic. 

If you could’ve danced a solo to one of Michael’s songs, what would it have been?
I would have loved to perform a rhumba solo to “Man in the Mirror”. 

What words of wisdom do you have for our gendance readers?
Find inspiration. It’s inspiration and your own guts that make you succeed. Keep trying. If you push yourself to the limit physically and mentally, you can get where you want to go.

How do you want to be remembered?
I would want America to remember me by the waltz routine because it was one of the most special ballroom dances I’ve ever seen. Best waltz on the show, so far, I think.

Besides dance, you love…
Eating!

Thank you, Asuka. Props to you for a job well done this season. We loved watching you and we have to agree with your waltz comment. That was one of the most beautiful pieces we’ve seen thus far. Your dress was stunning and you really pulled it off. This issue is very special for us, thank you for being part of it.

Click here to read what Jonathan has to say.