Podcast Summary: Toure Show – Amari "Monster" Marshall—I Dance For Beyonce
Episode Information:
- Title: Toure Show
- Host: DCP Entertainment
- Guest: Amari "Monster" Marshall
- Episode Title: Amari "Monster" Marshall—I Dance For Beyonce
- Release Date: May 4, 2025
- Website: dcpofficial.com/toureshow
1. Introduction
In this engaging episode of the Toure Show, host DCP Entertainment sits down with Amari "Monster" Marshall, a renowned dancer and co-captain of Beyoncé's Renaissance World Tour. Amari shares her journey to success, her experiences working with global superstars like Beyoncé and Rihanna, and her insights into the art of dance and representation.
2. Amari's Background and Career
Amari Marshall, affectionately known as Amari Monster, hails from Jacksonville, Florida. Her journey into the world of dance began with krumping, a street dance style, and evolved as she became a pivotal member of Beyoncé's dance crew. Amari has also showcased her talents at high-profile events, including Rihanna's halftime show at the Super Bowl.
Notable Quote:
“I started off as krump dancer and have been a part of this all-female collective called the Council, founded by Cleopatra, a legend in the freestyle community.”
— [05:04] Amari Marshall
3. Working with Beyoncé: Insights and Experiences
Amari delves deep into her collaborative relationship with Beyoncé, highlighting the meticulous choreography and the creative vision behind the Renaissance Tour. She praises Beyoncé's dedication and perfectionism, which continually push her to elevate her performance standards.
Notable Quote:
“To work for an artist that holds that same commitment for themselves only pushes me to be better. Beyoncé is a perfectionist, and that’s why we’re here—to keep setting the standards high.”
— [14:16] Amari Marshall
4. Philosophies on Dance and Performance
When discussing what constitutes a great dancer, Amari emphasizes confidence and the ability to convey emotions. For her, dance is not just about executing moves but about telling a story and making the audience feel connected to the performance.
Notable Quote:
“A great dancer is the ability to make people feel what you feel, to bring the story of the song to life, whether it's sad, mad, or any emotion.”
— [03:40] Amari Marshall
5. Representation and Culture in Dance
Amari passionately discusses the importance of representation in dance, particularly for plus-size dancers and Black dancers. She reflects on Beyoncé's Beychella performance, which paid homage to HBCU dance culture and highlighted the significance of embracing diverse body types and cultural backgrounds on a global stage.
Notable Quote:
“Everybody is welcome and everybody is appreciated and everybody is beautiful. Beyoncé’s show was about breaking societal norms and celebrating all bodies.”
— [11:06] Amari Marshall
6. Team and Fellow Dancers
Amari introduces listeners to other key members of the dance crew, including The Twins (Larry and Laurent) and Honey Balenciaga. She shares anecdotes about their unique styles, camaraderie, and the dynamic they bring to performances. The Twins are celebrated for their versatility, blending styles like ballet and krumping seamlessly.
Notable Quote:
“The Twins have taken in all styles of dance and created their own thing. Watching them freestyle on stage is inspiring.”
— [22:39] Amari Marshall
7. Personal Stories: Working with Blue
A heartfelt segment of the episode centers around Amari's collaboration with Blue, Beyoncé's daughter. Amari recounts the pressures and responsibilities of coaching a child performer on a massive tour, emphasizing the trust Beyoncé placed in her.
Notable Quote:
“Working with Blue was a beautiful mother-daughter moment. It was about giving her the right encouragement and coaching her to shine on stage.”
— [33:21] Amari Marshall
8. Physical Demands and Recovery on Tour
The rigorous demands of touring are a recurring theme. Amari discusses the physical toll of performing multiple shows with minimal rest, the importance of stretching, nutrition, and mental resilience in maintaining peak performance levels.
Notable Quote:
“Our days were long, starting at five or six in the morning and finishing around three or four. Stretching, staying hydrated, and taking care of our bodies were essential.”
— [50:18] Amari Marshall
9. Future Goals and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Amari shares her ambitions beyond performing. She aims to build her own production company, delve into interior design, and continue empowering other dancers through her initiatives like the Amari Monster Experience and Black Escape Experience.
Notable Quote:
“My big dreams now are to be a creative director, help others bring their visions to life, and develop my own businesses to inspire the next generation of dancers.”
— [53:55] Amari Marshall
10. Reflections on Black Culture and Dance History
Amari honors the legacy of Black dancers and choreographers who have paved the way in the industry. She cites inspirations like Debbie Allen and Danielle Polanco, emphasizing the rich history and ongoing contributions of Black artists in shaping dance culture.
Notable Quote:
“Being Black is more than skin color. It’s our pride, beauty, artistry, and history. We are royalty, and our strength and love for each other shine through our dance.”
— [58:08] Amari Marshall
11. Conclusion
The episode concludes with Amari expressing gratitude for her journey and the opportunities that have come her way. She remains committed to her craft, continually seeking new ways to innovate and inspire through dance.
Notable Quote:
“What I'm trying to get to right now is my empire, the domination, the Amari Monster experience. It’s about always evolving and never stopping.”
— [53:55] Amari Marshall
Closing Remarks:
Host DCP Entertainment thanks Amari for her inspiring insights and encourages listeners to pursue their dreams with the same passion and dedication. The Toure Show promises more enlightening conversations with successful individuals every Wednesday and Throwback episodes on Sundays.
Credits:
- Written by: Toure
- Produced by: Ashley Hobbs
- Editor: Ryan Woodhull
- Booker: Ray Holiday
- Distributed by: DCP Entertainment
Stay Connected:
For more episodes and information, visit dcpofficial.com/toureshow or follow the Toure Show on Instagram at instagram.com/toureshow.