One of the biggest cult films in history for hip hop called “Breakin” starred Adolfo “Shabba-Doo” Quiñones. He was a dance legend and star during that generation who died on Dec. 30 of unknown causes at the age of 65.
Singer and actress Toni Basil, who cofounded the Lockers dance troupe alongside Quiñones in 1971, shared the news via Twitter.
“It is with extreme sadness the Lockers family announces the unexpected passing of our beloved Adolfo Shabba-Doo Quiñones,” she wrote. “In this difficult time we are requesting privacy.”
— Toni Basil (@Toni_Basil) December 30, 2020
Quiñones’ final Instagram post on Tuesday gives insight into a recent medical struggle, confirming he was feeling better and had tested negative for COVID-19. A week prior, he shared via social media that his doctor ordered him to quarantine for 10 days after three negative tests.
“Good news y’all! I’m feeling all better I’m just a wee bit sluggish from my cold, but the good news is I’m COVID-19 negative! Woo hoo!!!” he wrote. “Anyway, I’m excited lots of catching up to do. Let’s gooo! Thank you to everyone for your kind, sweet, and loving get well wishes and thoughts.”
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The entertainment world has reacted to his death on social media. Check out the reactions below.
I just heard I’ve lost another friend Shabba do. A great Hiphop dancer. We toured together w/ Lionel Richie 1983. Gosh, Rest In Peace my brother. @officialshabbadoo @Shabba_Doo pic.twitter.com/YntRWT1t55
— SheilaEdrummer (@SheilaEdrummer) December 30, 2020
RIP Shabbadoo!!! This hip hop breakdancer appeared in the 1974 hip hop movie #Breakin and Breakin 2: Electric Boogaloo. Prayers and condolences to the family! Man!!! ❤️🙏🏽 #Shabbadoo #ImAPioneer pic.twitter.com/FEQq5YytIv
— MC Debbie D (@MCDebbieD) December 30, 2020
Another of our inspirational peers of the #StreetDance world has gained his wings. A personal thank you for giving me what will always remain one of my dance bibles #Breakin #ShabbaDoo pic.twitter.com/dEVOjhGYhv
— Vix (BamBamBoogies) (@BamBamBoogiesUK) December 30, 2020
I’m done with 2020! Rest In Paradise to the legendary #ShabbaDoo aka OZONE😞🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/LMG3jtM3Ug
— Rico Hernandez (@RicoOnYourRadio) December 30, 2020
Legendary dancer Shabba Doo sat down with us and told us about his journey on @SoulTrain – His timing always WAS perfect. #SoulTrainDancerBET #RIPShabbaDoo pic.twitter.com/q97bK5Hsqe
— BET (@BET) December 31, 2020
One of the BEST things about the 80’s was Breakin 1 and 2!!!! #ShabbaDoo pic.twitter.com/iLyZWYXU28
— Caprice 🦋 (@MsHollywood081) December 30, 2020