Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan “Jolty” Ortiz.
Hi Jonathan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started at one of my cousins sweet 16 party in Philadelphia when I was around 11 maybe 12 years old. Young me, just minding my own business, having a fun time with my younger brother. Then, when least expecting anything of the sort, a giant circle started to form, one by one people started doing incredible dance moves that I’ve never seen before. Immediately right after me and my younger brother began to imitate what we’ve seen in the kitchen that was nearby. Eventually, the party was finished, and it was time to come back home to Florida, where my family and I had moved to when I was even younger, as we are originally from, Philadelphia. Days pass and I find myself at my aunt’s house practicing these moves I’ve seen while at the sweet 16 party. While one of my uncles noticed and began giving me tips! Little did I know he knew how to dance like them too. He taught me what he knew, just a few fundamentals or two, but I was happy for what he helped me with. Years pass I ended up meeting some of my closest friends till this day, Victor, Rey, Static, Snoopy. They all dance as well! We practice together, learn together, and became really good friends. But it wasn’t until I went to my very first “jam” in 2008. I was mind blown, I thought I was good, but man the people I was watching at the time were incredible. I wanted to be just as good as they were if not better! That’s when my motivation and hunger picked up like never before. I trained constantly, doing my best to perfect and perform to my best ability. Through trial and error, lots of losing with only a win here or a win there, I’ve finally gotten to be one of the best in the state of Florida! Hard work really is hard, but the love I have for it made it just a bit easier. 16 to 17 years later my talent has gotten me to be on the same stage as the Black-Eyed Peas and RUN DMC while being able to travel around the world demonstrating my art form and athleticism. The journey has been great, and it’s only going to get even more amazing!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been some struggles of course. Not everything is a walk in the park. For years I’ve struggled with heart issues and suffered from severe anxiety. There’s even been times I’ve collapsed during a competition. Scary moments. So much so that my parents wanted me to give up this passion of mine. I refused I just love it too much to just give it up, it gave me purpose in a way. Years of learning how to live healthier helped my journey a lot. I began to take control over my anxiety and learn more about my body and heart. Now I’m proudly able to say that I have no more hindrance from those things that “held” me back! Now because of my never-failing optimism, my mother, Mandy, and my father, Luis. Are my number one fans and supporters!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a professional dancer and I specialize in Breakin’ also known commercially as “breakdancing.” I’m known for my constant mix directional movements and spontaneous level changes. Throughout my entire career thus far I’m very proud of my decision-making. It used to be all about competition, but now it’s more about branding and building. Doing so I’ve been capable to tour around the USA with multiple companies due to my art form and other talents, such as stunts and acrobatics. But most importantly creating a legacy for my community. Relaying what I’ve learned from pioneers that I’ve looked up to or have helped me. I want to do the same. To spread and share knowledge to those coming up and gaining their fire for this dance. I’ve gained a love helping the newer generation develop and “evolve” with proper guidance and understanding. This is what I’m most proud of. I think what sets me apart would definitely be my approach to breakin. I see it as a poem in physical form. A dramatic excerpt displaying how I’m feeling or saying but with movement.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
The last thing I would love to share to the readers would be this.
Don’t be afraid to be yourself when it comes to anything you are passionate about. As long as it doesn’t hurt anyone of course.
It’s ok to be different, and it’s ok to have a slow start. Momentum is all you need to worry about; even if the speed is slow just never stop, never give up. Most importantly try to enjoy the ride. Eventually, that momentum will reach its destination, and your older self will thank you for never stopping.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jol_ty?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jonathanjolty?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Kien Quan
Socrates Johnson “Soyisreal”
