Episode Summary:
In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Eddie Garcia takes listeners on a journey through his extraordinary dance career—from a tap-dancing kid earning scholarships at Dupre’s to becoming one of the youngest dancers ever selected by Michael Jackson. Eddie reflects on the discipline and versatility that shaped him early on, blending classical training with emerging street styles that positioned him perfectly for the explosion of music videos in the 1980s.
He shares behind-the-scenes stories from iconic projects including Smooth Criminal, the Bad and Dangerous World Tours, and his early work with Janet Jackson under Paula Abdul. Beyond the glamour, Eddie opens up about legal emancipation, learning professionalism at a young age, navigating rejection, and understanding the unspoken rules of auditions and touring life.Throughout the conversation, Eddie emphasizes the importance of humility, preparation, financial responsibility, and soul over tricks.
He offers invaluable wisdom on longevity, leadership, and why relationships—not just talent—sustain a career. The episode closes with Eddie’s passion for mentorship and giving back through teaching and Camp MIA, reminding dancers that true success comes from authenticity, gratitude, and staying connected to why you fell in love with dance in the first place.
Shownotes:
(0:00) – Welcome, introductions, and session overview
(9:30) – Early training: tap roots, Dupre’s scholarships
(13:10) – Style fusion: breaking, jazz, ballet foundations
(16:40) – First break: Janet Jackson via Paula Abdul
(19:45) – Emancipation and preparing for adult responsibilities
(21:15) – Michael Jackson audition and Smooth Criminal booking
(26:40) – Touring young: Bad & Dangerous World Tours
(31:00) – Lessons from Michael: timing, presence, musicality
(44:00) – Auditions, rejection, resilience, and professionalism
(1:49:00) – Teaching legacy, Camp MIA, giving back
Biography:
Eddie Garcia is an accomplished director, choreographer, dancer and multi-faceted entertainer with a solid reputation for choreography built upon decades of performing internationally alongside many of today’s most celebrated stars. At just 16 years old, Eddie’s incredible dancing style and technique delivered him to the world stage via many projects with Janet Jackson. He danced in some of her most iconic videos and performances of all time, including “Nasty”, “What Have You Done For Me Lately”, “When I Think of You” and the classic “Control” on the American Music Awards.
By the time Eddie turned 17, “The King of Pop” himself, Michael Jackson, hand picked Eddie to join him. This began with “Smooth Criminal” and continued with other well known videos like the “The Way You Make Me Feel” and “Speed Demon”. Eddie spent the next five years dancing with Jackson on the record-breaking and internationally acclaimed “Bad” and “Dangerous” tours.It was during those invaluable years of touring and working on countless sets where Eddie fine-tuned his innate ability to direct, produce and choreograph.
He has since lent his talent as a dancer and choreographer to many well known artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Paula Abdul, Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande. Eddie Garcia artistic fingerprint that has made him one of the most sought after names within the world of dance. He continues to enjoy engaging in new creative endeavors.
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