Remembering K’Sean Nurse: A Dance Icon
Curtis Small stood resolutely in front of the video camera, his heart heavy as an ethereal portrait of his son, K’Sean Nurse, illuminated the screen behind him. Surrounding him were approximately 20 dancers, all brimming with emotion and determination. In this expansive, open space—located on the main floor of a mental health services center—many of the dancers had either competed against K’Sean or shared dance steps with him over the years. They had watched as this lanky, quick-witted kid from Brooklyn crafted his identity within the vibrant dance culture of Harlem, one captivating battle, one unforgettable party, and one clever joke at a time.
K’Sean, affectionately known as KShakes, had a unique ability to utilize his long, wiry limbs, sharp humor, and impeccable timing to develop a distinctive dance style that resonated deeply with audiences, both on social media and in live performances. He had graced stages alongside notable artists such as King Combs, G. Dep, Busta Rhymes, Lady London, and the Lost Boyz. His stage name originated from his extraordinary flair for the Harlem Shake—the authentic version—where his precise movements could transform the dance into something either frantically energetic or gracefully flowing, perfectly in tune with the music. His shoulders would roll smoothly for R&B tracks and quiver rhythmically for hip-hop beats.
On September 6, the dance community was dealt a devastating blow when K’Sean, whose viral videos, infectious personality, and expressive dance style had made him a beloved figure in New York City’s street dance culture, was tragically shot during the filming of a music video in Brooklyn. He was just 31 years old. As the police continue their investigation into this heartbreaking incident, K’Sean’s family and friends have sought solace through a series of dance gatherings held in the parks and community centers that nurtured his talent, like Union Settlement in Harlem—the very venue that had hosted the Teen Night workshops and battles where KShakes had honed his craft.
More than a month after his untimely death, around 150 dancers, family members, and friends gathered at Union Settlement to film a poignant music video for “Shakes,” an elegy performed by Curtis Small under his rap alias, Bakeman Global. This heartfelt song, which has begun to gain airplay on New York’s renowned Hot 97, is infused with a lively rhythm and infectious energy, complete with drums that echo the sound of handclaps. Before the filming commenced, Mr. Small addressed the crowd with vulnerability and strength: “I thought I could do this, but it’s still kind of hard, you know? I need y’all to carry me.”
Tatianna Butler, the visionary director of the video and a dedicated organizer of the Teen Night events, stood nearby, ready to capture the essence of KShakes and the love that surrounded him.