From Chicago’s South Side to the Super Bowl stage, Sydney Blaylock redefines roller skating with her unique JB style, inspiring young skaters and showcasing Black excellence (Photo Credit: Instagram).
From the energetic streets of Chicago’s South Side, Sydney Blaylock is redefining what it means to be a skater in a city rich with tradition and cultural heritage.
Skating isn’t just a hobby for Sydney; it’s a family legacy.
Mastering the Art of JB Skating
Blaylock’s mother started taking her skating at the age of four. By 12, she began attending adult skate nights and learned to JB or **JB skating, a style infused with the funk and footwork Chicago is known for.
After choosing Spelman College to be near Cascade Skating Rink, Sydney’s journey took a pivotal turn when a DJ encouraged her to audition for BET in Atlanta. That opportunity led to her first professional gig alongside Mike Epps, a significant milestone when skating opportunities were scarce. Her aspirations included lofty goals, like performing for Disney or Cirque du Soleil, but the lack of avenues made skating a side pursuit until the pandemic changed everything.
During lockdown, Sydney began creating videos that quickly gained traction, allowing her creativity to shine through even in isolation. Her viral posts caught the attention of brands like Nair, leading to campaigns from her living room. “You never know when people are watching,” she reflects, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity.
Overcoming Obstacles on the Path to Greatness
In 2022, after returning to Chicago from Brooklyn, Sydney faced new challenges. She trained as a florist, but a serious wrist injury from skating in early 2023 threatened to sideline her once again. Yet, her resilience shone as she taught skating lessons at her alma mater, Kenwood Academy, discovering that teaching benefited her students and rekindled her passion for skating.
Her journey took a sparkling turn in November 2023 when a choreographer reached out with an enticing offer—a chance to skate in Los Angeles, coinciding with an audition for the Super Bowl tour. Sydney’s excitement was palpable as she enlisted her mother to film her skating to Beyoncé’s music. Despite financial uncertainties, she embraced the opportunity, rehearsing for five weeks leading up to the monumental performance.
A Super Bowl Stage and a Surprise Proposal
In a surprise twist, the Super Bowl stage also became a backdrop for her personal life; her engagement was orchestrated by Usher’s team during a Chicago performance while on tour, a moment captured by the media and celebrated by fans. Sydney describes the experience as one of profound gratitude, showcasing her talent and her journey of love and perseverance.
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Sydney’s distinctive skating style—its smoothness, big wheels and impressive stunts—sets her apart in a male-dominated arena. She embodies the spirit of Chicago, effortlessly blending femininity with fierce skill. “We have our own style and music, and it’s different,” she states, proudly representing a city that boasts some of the best skating talent in the country.
Through her journey, Sydney has become a beacon of inspiration for young dancers and skaters.
Her message is clear: “Stay true to yourself and commit to your style. And focus on your content. What may seem silly at first can create incredible opportunities.” Teaching lessons across her community further solidifies her mission to uplift others.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
In the context of Black excellence, Sydney’s story is groundbreaking. Roller skating has rarely received the recognition it deserves, yet her performance at the Super Bowl marked a historic moment for urban skating and black culture—especially for women.
“For 58 halftime shows, this had never happened,” she asserts, reflecting on the significance of showcasing black talent on such a monumental stage.
As Sydney Blaylock continues to skate her way through life, she embodies the essence of resilience, creativity and cultural pride, reminding us all that the journey is just as important as the destination. Her story is not just about skating; it’s about breaking barriers and making history in a city that celebrates black excellence.
**JB Skating: A roller skating style from the Chicago and Northwest Indiana area, named in honor of James Brown.
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