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Founders & OGs

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2005 – 2007

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FINDING A NAME

The origin story of Major Definition begins at UMBC, founded

by a group of passionate dancers with inspirational support

from Lyle Beniga. Originally known as "UMBC's Hip Hop Dance Troupe" and later as "Common Ground," they quickly made a name for themselves.

​Known accolades include:

  • First ever performance - Midnight Madness 2005

    • Mardi Gras Medley - Jake & Peter​​

  • 3rd Place - Reign or Shine 2007

    • Purple Medley - Miguel "Migs" & Kim​

  • Finalizing the name to Major Definition 2008​​

    • Erwin​

  • Opened for Jabbawockeez

    • Children's Chance Dance Showcase 2008

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2008 – 2010

MAJOR DEFINITION

With dreams to expand throughout the DMV and the East Coast, "Common Ground" rebranded themselves into the name we know today as "Major Definition." After taking 3rd place at the 2009 East Coast Dance Competition (ECDC) with their notable Space Medley, Major Def made a name for themselves through their versatility in dance styles and innovative performance themes.

Known accolades include:

  • 1st Place - Rip the Floor 2008

    • The "Cinderella" Medley - Miguel "Migs" & Kim​

  • 3rd Place - ECDC 2009

    • The Space Medley - ​Paolo "Slice" & Nina​

  • Creation of "WHO ARE WE?!" chant

    • Paolo "Slice"​

  • Street style fundamentals & training

    • Miquel "Migs" - Breaking

    • Jemuel "JV" - House

    • Eser & Russ​ - Locking

    • Kim - Waacking

    • Billy - Tutting

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© Major Definition  |  Life After Def 2025

Tel: 123-456-7890

500 Terry Francine St San Francisco, CA 94158

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© Major Definition 2025

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