Newsletter 22 | August 2015 Feature
In today’s world it is very rare to find a creator with purposeful material crafted to speak not only to the masses, but to cultures as well. August’s Featured Artist encircles everything he does with melodies, moves, and imagery that causes the mind and our eyes to see what is behind us, before us, and beyond us. He calls himself King Aus, and rightly so, with creative intent lost on many entertainers of our era. His unique, dynamic, and powerful artistry has earned him many grand opportunities which he discussed with me. Few people know their ancestors as well as he does, and even fewer bring it into a realm saturated by artists who value money over meaning.
Meet King Aus
Ausben Spottedeagle Jordan aka King Aus is a world renowned dancer, teacher, and performing artist. Aus’s love for the arts comes from his upbringing as a martial artist at the age of eight, break dancer by age nine, and performing arts school student from age 14-21. Earning him his a BFA in Musical theatre, dance and acting. Growing up in the Kreyol and Native American culture. So from a young age he has always appreciated and looked to explore other cultures and dance.
Recent credits include being the featured dancer for Swedish artist Loreen. Winning Europe’s biggest music competitions the Eurovision Song Contest. Dancing for International Rap artist Adam Baptista, and more. Not only has King Aus performed and been stand in for Broadway, Off Broadway tours and international productions such as West Side Story and Tarzan. He has an extensive background in Urban Street Dance and music.
In the past King Aus has worked with such artist as Jody Watley, Madonna, Wayne Brady, etc. He has also been in feature films television shows and such as, So You Think You Can Dance, Live To Dance, Japan Uniqlo Commercial, Honor Deferred with Samuel L Jackson. Not to mention reaching 45 countries in the last 10 years spreading the love of Urban Dance and Hip Hop. Also recently embarking on his music career.
Q&A Session With Ausben
Q: What led you to your profession?
A: I was led to my profession by school teachers that cared about the next generation. My acceptance those talents played a role. The biggest reason is because Im just not a 9-5 type of person.
Q: What struggles have you faced within it?
A: My biggest struggles within has never been doubt. My struggles have leaned more towards emotional stability and distance from my relatives . Seeing as my job requires me to travel for long periods of time.
Q: Has your background influenced your work?
A: My background has always been the fruit of my creative process. Be it music or dance, the sound and movements will always have a distinct Afro Indigenous flavor.
Q: Who has been your favorite person to work with?
A: My favorite person to work with I would have to say is the talented Loreen. From her I learned the deeper meaning of passion and standing up for what you want to create as an artist.
Q: What is a typical day for you?
A: A typical day for me is going to the gym, write song, and doing a lot of researching and scheduling meetings. When I have show days or class tours its teaching classes for the day.
Q: What would you suggest to younger dancers?
A: My advice to younger dancers is live life to the fullest. Whatever path you chose in this life. You might hit a few stop signs but as long as you keep the finish in mind. You will never go wrong.
Q: If you weren’t doing all you do, what career would you have chosen?
A: If being a performer didn’t snatch me. I was going to be a Marine. I previously did junior cadet training.
Q: What do you do in your down time?
A: In my down time I like to make Indigenous regalia and go to Pow Wows. I do a lot of reading but my favorite is watching the Kardashians lol.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 2025?
A: By 2025 I see myself establish and a master at all of my craft. I see myself educating on a deeper level to the next generation. I also see myself owning my own production/theatre School.
Q: Do you have inspiring words you live by?
A: Dream big not only for yourself but for those who no longer can. Some times we can complain about what could be better. Yet we forget so many will never have the chance to dream as big.
Ausben’s Projects
Visuals speak volumes for Aus. Check out the videos below.
Love Always,
Veronica ✌❤
