"MATEO is an expression of our passion for life and determination to achieve our dreams.”  We have come to find that Luther Brown represents what we believe in. 

As one of the main judges and choreographers of “So You Think You Can Dance Canada,” Luther has always been an intricate part to the show.  His role is to educate dancers, whether it is by choreography, or life lessons.  He wants them to succeed in their own craft, and make them understand, that nothing is achieved over night. 

“You have to pay your dues,” Luther states, “doesn’t matter how many things I’ve done...I still have to respect the guys that have been there for a while.  It doesn’t matter what your resume says, you need to have respect.”

Growing up in the Jane and Finch area, Luther has always had a great love for his community.  He had a basic instinct to help others in any way he could.  Big influences in his life came from growing up in a very giving home, where his mother was a minister and his father was a teacher.  His love for music and the arts were enriched by his parents, as his dad currently has a Radio show, Caribbean Crucible on CHRY 105.5.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Luther, and learn about his road to success. 

Mateo Magazine:  What would you advise to those trying to achieve their dreams?
Luther Brown:  Don’t try to get there, just get there!  When you try too much, it’s not real...there is no handbook.

MM:  How did growing up in the Jane and Finch area affect who you are today?
LB:  I am a product of the environment; there is so much talent there.  It was all about staying straight and never getting caught up, regardless of what neighbourhood you grow up in.

MM:  When did you start focusing on dance?
LB:  I have been dancing forever.  My friends and I used to dance on the patio of our 6th floor apartment, performing for the people at the bus stop below.  By 10th grade is when I really started getting into dance.  By the time I attended the University of Windsor, we started a squad, made student council, and created Do Dat Entertainment.

MM:  When did you make the transition from dancer to choreographer?
LB:  I didn't even know I was a choreographer at first.  I used to just say, “I got a routine”.  We used to practice in the ball court, kitchen, and in my friend's basements.  The first time I ever used a studio was in New York.  I remember saying, dance studios?  We should use those!

MM: Was there ever a moment that you felt like giving up?
LB:  I saw a shady side to the business; it threw me off so bad that I left LA for a couple of years.  When money and faith runs out, it's easy to lose yourself.  Luckily, I was always able to come back to Toronto, to take a step back and reflect.

MM:  What was your most memorable job?
LB:  Janet Jackson.  “Control”...that was the first album I bought in my life.  P. Diddy was a great experience.  His work ethic is incredible.

MM:  Who would you like to work with in the future?
LB:  I would have really loved to work with Michael Jackson.  Hopefully in the near future, I get a chance to work with Mary J. Blige. 

MM:  Do you have any new endeavors?
LB:  I am actually working right now with a very talented artist, which is like a dream come true for me.  Her name is Trish and everyday with her is a new surprise.  She is so talented, not only as a singer, but she pops and she doesn't even know she is popping.

MM:  Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
LB:  Trish and I, on top of the world.  Broadway, Movies...everything.

Luther, we want to thank you for being our first interview and an inspiration to Mateo Magazine and our readers!