Oglethorpe alumnus Sean Freeman ’07, performing under his stage name Sean-Christopher, was featured last week on ABC’s Good Morning America, where he performed the choreography to his recently released debut single, “Girls.” Surrounded by his crew of dancers outside the Cascade Skating Rink in Atlanta, Freeman delivered an energetic performance entirely on roller skates, much to the delight of host Michael Strahan.

“I’ve been skating my entire life,” says Freeman, “It was just natural to go ahead and connect my love of skating to music.”

Freeman’s performance is emblematic of a massive renaissance movement—roller skating. An activity rich in soul and personal expression, the roller skating revival has become widely visible through TikTok and Instagram, which is where Freeman has gained a huge following. Currently, Freeman has 16,700 followers on Instagram. He has also been featured in videos with Soloman Snowden (@iskate_solo), who has more than 167,000 followers on TikTok.

Roller skating has a deep, yet often-overlooked history within the Black community. It is a vibrant activity that allows artists like Freeman to express themselves through style and athleticism. In the 1960s, skaters would protest for desegregated roller rinks. During the birth of hip-hop, rappers would perform in skating rinks when no other venue would host them. Though skating rinks are facing a recession nationwide, artists like Freeman are bringing awareness to roller skating culture through their art on social platforms.

While attending Oglethorpe University, Freeman created and led the Oglethorpe Dance Ensemble and hosted two dance productions: A Night to Remember and Lux Aeterna.

After graduating from Oglethorpe, Freeman continued on to the University of Arkansas Little Rock where he earned a Master of Education in Rural & Urban School Leadership. Since graduating, his resume has included choreographing pieces for the Black Hall of Fame, Good Morning America, Alpha Phi Alpha, Eddie Griffin, and numerous competition studios throughout the country. He has also performed on So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing With The Stars, and choreographed for major showcases/productions. Freeman is currently the owner of the “Dream BIG Dance Company,” a competition/performing arts company based in Roswell, Georgia.

Watch the full clip here.