Lamont Chapman, aka “Kunstruct,” of Chattanooga is a sought-after performer of the locking dance form. Locking is an improvisational performance dance, originating in Los Angeles in the 1970s with creator and hip-hop dance innovator Don “Campbellock” Campbell. Locking grew in popularity beyond the streets of LA, to the hit T.V. show “SoulTrain,” to regionally specific dance communities around the country. Chattanooga is one such hub of locking. The individual dancer’s expressive movement flows out of “the lock” and returns to it as the freestyle dance builds. Locking is credited with being the first original Streetdance style, predating breakdancing and popping.
Kunstruct began studying this dance 21 years ago and was mentored by locking legends ill Kozby, Buddha Stretch, Kid Dynamo, Honey Rockwell, and Daizo the leader of the D-Train Campbellock Family. Kunstruct is passionate about preserving the specific skills of locking and passing on the knowledge of its origins. He has 17 years of experience in teaching locking workshops and teaching students.
During the Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program this year, Kunstruct will be training Elijah (Zil) Roberson. Elijah was introduced to the dance at a local session in Chattanooga and is committed to sharpening his skill. Through their work together, Elijah hopes to capture the true essence of the dance style and culture. “Locking has been one of the pillars of not only the dance community but black / American culture for over 5 decades,” Elijah explains. “Dance is a form of art the I share with the world in both my personal and social life and has become one of the ways I provide for my family.”
