JaQuel Knight, choreographer of Megan Thee Stallion, in that epic AMA performance

Having a diverse skill set allows Knight to deliver arresting moments like Megan’s American Music Awards set, which used video, dramatic see-through costumes, and a smoke-filled stage to create an atmosphere. When he started working with the artist in late 2019, he wanted to take his live performances to the next level. “He’s just teaching her stage etiquette,” he explains. “The tools you need to become a superstar, to become a household name and go on and off the stage freely.” Dance was an essential element, requiring daily practices that began in the small hours. “There has to be a commitment to the art form; it all starts with them, “says Knight of the line between a good performer and a great performer.” Meghan is putting in the hours, she’s working hard, and all of this is happening incredibly fast for her. Because it’s so natural, it may seem easy, but this it’s a first for her and she has learned so much about how to perform [a performance] at a high level. ”

She may have gone from college student to hip hop superstar seemingly overnight, but when it came time to master the physically demanding choreography of “Body”, Megan was up to the challenge. A mix of NOLA bounce and stomp and shake styles, the routine ranks among Knight’s best – a version of it also features in Megan’s music video for the song – and was a 180 from some of the star’s previous performances. “[Before] we saw a side of Megan with twerking, and that’s where people started deleting her, “says Knight.” My goal was to let people realize that she’s so much more. “Pushing into new territory isn’t it was always easy. “There were some things she was terrified of,” she says of the rig that came down from the ceiling in the opening of the show and took on new dance styles. “Seeing her engaged in the process and doing whatever it takes to get that extraordinary achievement, a stellar performance was beautiful. He’s not playing: we’re putting on a show like we’ve never done before. ”

With the #Bodychallenge already spreading across TikTok and Instagram, Knight’s work seems to be done, but there’s so much more he can’t wait to tackle soon: TV, movies, music, it’s all on the table until connects with his audience. “The most important thing is to create formats that speak to people who love the arts,” he says. “The sky is the limit; over the past 12 years I’ve been able to do so much, but I’m just getting started: this is the only introduction, my opening number.”

Below, it shows Knight Rowing some moments behind the scenes of rehearsals for last night’s show.

Knight behind the scenes during rehearsal.

“This happens at the beginning of the first hook. Here we see the dancers stalking off the platforms. “

“This is at the start of the second hook and the move is inspired by the New Orleans movement, The NOLA Bounce.”

“The band plays and plays during the second pocket of the second verse.”

“This is called Stomp & Shake and it comes from the HBCU (Historically Black College and University) culture.”