The Master of Choreography and the big man on ABDC campus sat down with the trendsetting publishers of gendance to give you this long-awaited interview. You love his style and now’s your chance to get inside his soul. Listen up as we give our loyal next gen readers across the globe… a little bit of Shane Sparks’ spunk.

Growing up in Cincinnati, how did dance come into your life?
Dance was everything... I remember going to see Breakin’ for the first time. That movie changed my life forever.

We’ve been highlighting cross country moves with stories from NY to LA, LA to NY. Why did you decide to make the move to LA?
Actually, when I decided to come to LA, I was in a singing group called Cold Premier. At the time we were trying to get a record deal. We got one and lost it. So we decided to come back to LA to get another deal, or save the one we had, but it didn't work. I told my mom I was gonna be back in 3 weeks and I never went back! Except to visit. It was the best decision I ever made.

We just got back from LA and love the vibe over there. But here’s a question for the fun of it… who would win in a dance battle: the boys from You Got Served or the Jabbawockeez?
That's a good question... I would have to say no comment because there are some sick boys in Vegas. Also, it depends on what boys we’re talking about. Some, the Jabbawockeez would smash and some would give the Jabbas a run for their money; but until I see the battle, we’ll never know.

True. So, tell us, what kind of clothing are you designing these days? Does your style and choreography influence the threads?
Right now, in terms of clothing, I'm doing something sexy for the ladies and something hood (but classy) for the fellas. We can't wear baggy jeans forever... even though I will. LOL!

Now that you’re on your 4th season of judging ABDC, which crews have made a lasting impression on you?
Of course Jabba! Fanny Pack, Super Crew and last season, I think Beat Freaks changed the game!

As a kid, were you a big fan of Transformers? How do things outside of the dance realm influence your choreography and pieces like your SYTYCD Transformers?
I am 90% influenced by movies and TV. As long as there are movies like Transformers and The Matrix, I'll always blow your mind.

Do you think reality dance shows are good exposure for performers?
Of course, absolutely. 100%.

What advice do you have for aspiring dancers?
I always tell dancers to first perfect your craft as much as you can. Believe in yourself enough to not sell out. There's a place for all of us. We just have to be patient. If you put your efforts into something for good it will always be rewarding. Most importantly, respect everyone. You never know who they are. This dance world is small.  

So true. We hear that and back you up on it. You never know who you’ll be sitting next to in your next meeting or audition. In that case, since we’re sitting next to you, tell our readers why you’re a dance icon.
Maybe it's because I dance from the heart. I'm true to this game and I worked my butt off! I respect the dance world and my main goal is to change the world for all us dancers.

Besides dance, you love…
My life, my mom, and Jesus Christ!