Tevin Dan Cleanstep is ‘Badda Dan’ the rest

The Mystix Plaza off Hagley Park Road, St Andrew, was transformed into a dancing hub last Friday, as the 2025 staging of the Boom Badda Dan dancing competition lit up the space with raw energy, loud cheers, and unforgettable moments.

Though the show was off to a very late start, the anticipation only amplified the hype, as skankers, dance crews, and die-hard fans of the culture flooded the venue to witness the ultimate dance clash showdown. At the end of three intense rounds, 27-year-old Tevin Thompson, better known as 'Tevin Dan Cleanstep' from the Portmore-based Cleanstep Skankaz, walked away with as Boom Badda Dan 2025 Champion. For Thompson, the win was a triumph over self-doubt as he shared a bit about his journey.

"Last year, I felt like giving up. I thought it was my last time with this dancing thing," he admitted. "But I had people who kept encouraging me, telling me not to give up and to keep pushing. I give thanks to them because without that motivation, I wouldn't be here now, dancing, representing my team, my culture, and my country."

When asked what it took to reach this level, Thompson explained that the competition was as much mental as it was physical.

"Boom Badda Dan is an event we always used to guh from long time, so we knew the structure," he said. "For me, the mindset was simple - just to approach every song strongly, give it my best, really please di crowd, and capture the judges' attention." He said that the competition pushed him to his limits.

"I only had enough for two rounds. By the last round, I was winded," he admitted with a laugh. Still, his passion carried him through. "Dancing is like my everyday life. It's my safe space. It's where I vent when I don't have anyone else to talk to."

Second-place finalist Andre 'Flicka Flying Steppez' Brown gave Thompson a run for his money, and he was quick to give respect where it was due.

"Me and Flicka have been dancing for a long time. I know the potential he has. Even if I came second, I would be like, yeah! Because he deserves it too. He's hard-working and always pushing. So, dancers like him, I always try to give them the utmost respect every time."

Thompson is already looking ahead. His crew is currently promoting a new track with Chi Ching Ching titled Sprinkle, and he has his eyes set on international opportunities.

"Next year, we're aiming for the Red Bull competition and, hopefully, a tour. A lot of plans are in store."

Khadija Henry, Boom brand coordinator, said "the Jamaican dance scene is alive, well, and thriving".

"Over the last eight weeks, we've seen young and seasoned dancers, the skanker community, all coming out with raw energy and talent. We were able to witness that, and we're truly happy to see how it all came together tonight," she said.