Rollin' Through History: Black Culture on Wheels
rollin with the homies
Post soundtrack: A Roller Skating Jam Named "Saturdays" Song by De La Soul
For this week’s Palette Pleaser, I want to discuss something that holds a special place in the hearts of so many of us: Skating Rinks!!! From classic skate movie throwbacks like Roll Bounce to ATL to more personal memories at local spots such as Skate Key on Allerton Avenue in the Bronx, skating rinks have meant so much more than a hobby—they are a cultural center, dance floor, and community all wrapped up in one.
Come on, everybody, wear your rollerskates today….
Ah, a little cinematic nostalgia to get things rolling. Who can forget Roll Bounce? The 2005 film starring Bow Wow takes viewers back to the late '70s, capturing the essence of roller skating-disco era vibes. It wasn't just about the skating but about friendship, family, and finding joy amidst life's trials. The rink was home for the talent, battles fought on wheels, and love found. Then there's ATL, the 2006 film that gave us a peek into Atlanta's skate culture (the movie was loosely based on Dallas Austin and T-Boz's experiences growing up in ATL skate culture). Spearheaded by T.I., ATL focused on this bright, high-speed world of roller skating in the South and let everyone else know how these skating rinks are community centers—the style, the music, and the moves all in one.
Skate Key on Allerton Ave In The Bronx, NY
For little Shadé, who grew up in the Bronx, Skate Key is a spot that holds a special place in my heart. If you were around back then, you know Skate Key was so dope! (before the location change). For me, though, it wasn't only a rink; it felt like a second home. The energy in the place was electric, with DJ-spun tracks making you want to dance on skates. It was a place to observe the latest moves, get the freshest beats, and feel a sense of belonging. I remember hearing SWV’s “Anything” and Soul 4 Real’s “Everything” for the first time at Skate Key. These songs and many others played here make me miss these easy-going days.
Additionally, I have fond memories of every Saturday, taking the 2 train to Allerton Ave; my mom or father would take me and my godsister Nicole to Skate Key. The Key was also known as a cultural melting pot because it was where anyone from the surrounding area could be found. The sensation of gliding across the floor, the need to perfect new tricks, and the feeling of being surrounded by friends have created memories that still put a smile on my face today. It was never the same when it moved from Allerton to the South Bronx. Then, its eventual closing marked an end to an era, but what it gave the community will never be lost.
If you want to glimpse what I grew up with, watch the video below. Shoutout to the person who preserved their skate key videos! I am a huge advocate of preserving our culture.
Significance Today!
Skating rinks have always been more than just places to skate; they have functioned as vital cultural institutions within the Black community. They are locations where music, dance, and fashion combine to create a unique cultural experience. The rink is where you would see the latest dance moves set to the freshest tracks, and skating became an art.
These were also the spaces that created socialization and built communities. From Saturday night skate parties to after-school hangouts, rinks have only continued to provide safe spaces for young people to be themselves, be creative in finding their identity, and form lifelong friendships.
In the endddd
Skating rinks and Black culture go hand in hand. They are communal, expressive, vibrant places. Very much like those Roll Bounce and ATL flicks or from my experiences visiting local rinks such as Skate Key—skating rinks have been important in shaping our communities' overall social and cultural fabric.
Next time you find yourself lacing up skates, remember you're not just rolling; you're gliding on a rich history of Black people rooted in joy, resilience, and creativity.
Keep rolling, bouncing, and celebrating our vibrant culture on wheels!
You're so right! The skating rink was such a space for community, fashion, and culture and don't forget the opportunity for movement. I was gutted when Empire Skating Rink in Crown Heights closed while I was in middle school. I went their with my parent as a child and looked forward to going by myself as I got older and entered high school.
I went to Cascade while visiting ATL in May and it was EVERYTHING. The dancing, the music, the nostalgia. Thank you for the trip down memory lane.
I love this piece! I grew up in South Florida and the Gold Coast skating rink was so important. It's since been torn down (💔) but I had birthday parties there when I was little & in middle school went to "teen nights." Your post brought back so many good memories. Thank you.