Black Era: 1991-1997

"Exposed and Dying": Ballroom is mainstreamed, while the community struggles with  the epidemic of  HIV/AIDS. 

A new way of voguing is pioneered by Willi Ninja. The “old way” form of voguing style was rooted in hip hop/breakdancing. The “new way,” represented a more fluid style that emphasized flexibility, stretching, and plasticity.

Despite the devastation of HIV/AIDS in the Black Era, Ballroom persevered and expanded to Boston, Miami, Richmond, Atlanta, even extending to Los Angeles and Oakland. 

Philadelphia hosted some of the hottest balls in the Black Era and cultivated some of the most iconic rivalries and friendships

Community members note that the start of Atlanta ballroom is especially unique. It is widely accepted that the first house in Atlanta was the House of Escada (of HBO Legendary prominence), formed by four students from Morehouse College

FQ face Goddesses. These ladies set the runway on fire with their rivalry in the Black Era. Whenever they both set foot on the runway everyone knew a fiery intense battle would ensue. Tanay and Onjanae  have imprinted themselves in history as the embodiment of fem queen face.

He wasn't just a BQ Realness Ruler, Jihad Ebony was one of the Original BQ Perfect Tens. When the category was face, body, and realness, Jihad was not only one of the true staples of realness, but in sex siren, streetwear, and more. He is a ballroom blueprint.

Andre has lived and breathed ballroom since his entrance in the 1980's. He was and is one of the First All Around BQ for all categories. Andre founded the House of Mizrahi which has birthed hundreds of legends and dozens of ICONS. Ballroom will always be synonymous with Andre.

These ladies were true divas during this era. Misha Milan exuded glamour and sophistication. Vanessa Mizrahi was the Stone Cold Face Beauty. These ladies helped propel FQ Face in the 90's.

Latisha Revlon. A whole song was named after her. "The Ha" Latisha stamped her name in every category that she walked. Realness, Body, Performance. To this day Latisha is one of the most respected women in the scene with her talents and devotion to ballroom

Icon Jack  not just a ballroom icon but he is a ballroom phenom. Jack has spent the last 30 years striving to bring ballroom to the masses and forefront. Jack has done everything he can to innovate ballroom from balls, to categories , with his talent and creativity

She is the Mother of Dramatic Vogue. Ashley conquered every category that she walked. From realness to performance, labels, runway & even face. Ashley stormed into the scene and let her presence & shade become a staple and part of her legacy. She inspired a whole generation.

Whitney The Face God himself. He is foundational to the face category itself. For over 30 years, he defined all the elements of face. His class and aura has set the precedent for BQ Face.

Even though he is from the eras before, Dray stamped the Black Era for years with his presence. He ushered in the importance of the Male Figure in Ballroom and the reign of House Fathers. Dray set the tone and standard of thug realness for his generation and beyond.

Known as "Father" he is the true definition of the word. James has nurtured so many  men & trans women