Auti Angel
Prior to May 1992, I toured as a backup dancer for Eazy-E & NWA. I've danced with Kid'n'Play, Milli Vanilli, and Jeffrey Daniel. I even danced with LL Cool J on the 1992 Grammy's. It was the last time I danced on two legs.
On May 3rd, 1992 I was in a life-threatening car accident and became a T/10 paraplegic. The doctors told me I'd never walk or DANCE again.
I was determined to take ownership of my life and prove them wrong.
Once I learned how to “pop a wheelie” I began my movement. I pioneered Wheelchair Hip-Hop Dancing and watched it spread worldwide.
I then auditioned for dance departments and was turned down over and over again. However, I'm tenacious, relentless, and keep pushing the limits on life. Finally, I got called to dance for Ludacris in his "Stand Up" video, and on stage with him at the "Vibe Music Awards" in my wheelchair. The iconic Russel Simmons told me I was “the highlight of the show”.
Since then, I've starred on the hit T.V. show "Push Girls" and in the film "Musical Chairs" directed by Susan Seidelman.
Ya know, so many people come to me after seeing me perform in my wheelchair and say, "I love the way you dance, I used to be a dancer." I always reply, "What do you mean used to be a dancer? Once a Dancer, ALWAYS A DANCER!"
I am an actress, singer, rapper, model, and yes… a Dancer.
Photographed by Kristyna Archer
Prior to May 1992, I toured as a backup dancer for Eazy-E & NWA. I've danced with Kid'n'Play, Milli Vanilli, and Jeffrey Daniel. I even danced with LL Cool J on the 1992 Grammy's. It was the last time I danced on two legs.
On May 3rd, 1992 I was in a life-threatening car accident and became a T/10 paraplegic. The doctors told me I'd never walk or DANCE again.
I was determined to take ownership of my life and prove them wrong.
Once I learned how to “pop a wheelie” I began my movement. I pioneered Wheelchair Hip-Hop Dancing and watched it spread worldwide.
I then auditioned for dance departments and was turned down over and over again. However, I'm tenacious, relentless, and keep pushing the limits on life. Finally, I got called to dance for Ludacris in his "Stand Up" video, and on stage with him at the "Vibe Music Awards" in my wheelchair. The iconic Russel Simmons told me I was “the highlight of the show”.
Since then, I've starred on the hit T.V. show "Push Girls" and in the film "Musical Chairs" directed by Susan Seidelman.
Ya know, so many people come to me after seeing me perform in my wheelchair and say, "I love the way you dance, I used to be a dancer." I always reply, "What do you mean used to be a dancer? Once a Dancer, ALWAYS A DANCER!"
I am an actress, singer, rapper, model, and yes… a Dancer.
Photographed by Kristyna Archer
