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RESOLUTION CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND CAREER OF ADOLFO GUTIERREZ "SHABBA DOO" QUINONES
WHEREAS, Adolfo "Gutierrez" Shabba Doo Quinones, born on May 11, 1955, to a black mother from Mississippi and a Puerto Rican father, overcame early challenges to become a pioneering figure in street dance and entertainment; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's upbringing was in the Towers of Cabrini-Green in Chicago that shaped his early years; and
WHEREAS, he relocated to Southern California where he immersed himself in the vibrant street dancing scene of 1970s Los Angeles; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's artistic journey began with his early dance battles on Crenshaw Boulevard; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo was a founding member of “The Lockers,” influencing the evolution of popping and locking dance styles; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's impact on popular culture includes his uncredited contributions to "Saturday Night Fever" and his iconic role as Orlando "Ozone" in the breakdancing films "Breakin'” and "Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo" and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's versatility extended beyond film, appearing in music videos for Lionel Richie and Chaka Khan, and choreographing for artists such as Madonna and Luther Vandross, as well as Three Six Mafia's Oscar-winning performance at the 78th Academy Awards; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's dedication to his craft led him to study at the American Film Institute and later direct films, mentor youth in dance, and contribute significantly to the entertainment industry; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's son Vashawn Quinones shared that his father's dance stylings were influenced by Cab Calloway and Gene Kelly; and
WHEREAS, Shabba Doo's passing on December 29, 2020, marked the end of a life lived passionately for dance and artistic expression, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations; and
WHEREAS, the City of Chicago granted Shabba Doo's former grammar school Wolcott Elementary School, in West Town, an honorary street naming for him.
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that Cook County celebrates the life and career of Adolfo Gutierrez "Shabba Doo" Quinones during this seventh year of Cook County Urban Fine Arts Month and the 21st year of Chicago Hip-Hop Heritage Month. We recognize his pivotal role in hip-hop's history, dating back to its roots in Chicago, and acknowledge his contributions to the world of dance, film, and music. Shabba Doo's legacy as an artist, mentor, and cultural icon will forever be cherished and remembered.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of the same be tendered to the family of Adolfo "Gutierrez" Shabba Doo Quinones.
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