Lil’ Buck (aka Charles Riley) has been one of my favorite dancers for a while now.  If you haven’t seen him dance before I recommend you check out some of his youtube postings.  I chose this video somewhat at random (there are too many good ones to choose from), though I do think it demonstrates some of his skill and personality as a performer.

  I don’t mean to downplay how talented the other Memphis Jookers are: Tarrik Moore (teacher), Lil’ Daniel, Rico, Ladia Yates, G-Nerd, the list goes on and on (take a look if you aren’t familiar with them–there are many more I haven’t named here).  Still, Lil’ Buck is one of my personal favorites in large part because of the character that comes through when he’s performing.  

  Most of the Memphis Jookers have confidence by the truckload, but Lil’ Buck has something else: a great sense of humor.  Somehow he manages to pull off comical hijinks while still looking cool.  Watch for his cartoony slow motion exaggerations and knowing winks to the camera through many of his videos.  He’s so good he doesn’t have to worry about appearing goofy.  He plays with slapstick as just another tool in his repertoire.  Lil’ Bucks’ persona pulls you in.  Despite his size he seems like a giant.

-Peter LaBier