A recent tweet from former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has sparked a debate over the origin of the popular “Asylum Dance Challenge.” Gyan claims to be the originator of the dance, which has gained immense popularity thanks to dancer Dancegod Lloyd’s rendition set to Olivetheboy’s hit track “Asylum.”
“Go watch Ghana vrs Australia 2010 and u will know where this dance came from when I scored,” Gyan tweeted, referencing his performance of the dance during Ghana’s win over Serbia at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The dance gained wider recognition when Gyan performed it with Kevin Prince Boateng in the game against Australia.
Fourteen years later, the dance has made a resurgence, captivating Ghanaians once again. While Dancegod Lloyd’s version has gained immense popularity, there is speculation that he may have drawn inspiration from Gyan’s earlier performance.
Dancegod Lloyd, whose real name is Laud Anoo Konadu, is a renowned Ghanaian dancer, choreographer, and instructor. He co-founded the DWP Academy (Dance With Purpose Academy) with his colleague, Incredible Zigi, which offers training in various dance styles and aims to contribute to the growth and development of the dance industry in Ghana and beyond.
The debate over the origin of the dance move has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of acknowledging and respecting the origins of creative work.
