The Man Who Taught Michael Jackson to Moonwalk “I Can Make You Feel Good”
The King of Pop may have made the moonwalk famous, but the man who taught him the move turns 71 today. Jeffrey Daniel, the founding member of the legendary R&B group Shalamar, celebrates his birthday on August 24, 2026. He now calls Nigeria home.
From Soul Train to Global Stardom
Born Jeffrey Glen Daniel on August 24, 1955, in Los Angeles, California, Daniel grew up in the projects of East Los Angeles. His mother, a classical pianist and church choir director, immersed him in music from an early age. This foundation would eventually lead him to become one of the most influential dancers and choreographers in pop music history. Daniel rose to prominence as a featured dancer on the iconic television show Soul Train. In 1977, he co-founded Shalamar with Jody Watley and Howard Hewett. The group achieved international success, selling over 25 million records worldwide with hits like “A Night to Remember”, “The Second Time Around”, “Friends”, and “I Can Make You Feel Good”.
A Love Affair with Nigeria
Daniel’s most enduring contribution to pop culture came through his groundbreaking dance moves. He first performed “the backslide” on British television in 1982. This physically complicated dance technique later became known as the moonwalk. He performed it during a Shalamar performance on Top of the Pops.
Michael Jackson saw Daniel perform the move on Soul Train. The King of Pop sought him out. According to Jackson’s sister La Toya, he was a fan of Daniel’s dancing. Jackson soon hired Daniel to teach the move. Daniel taught Jackson the moonwalk in 1983. He later co-choreographed the videos for “Smooth Criminal” and “Bad”.
A Birthday Gift Like No Other
On his 65th birthday in 2020, Daniel received an extraordinary gift: his Nigerian wife gave birth to their child. The delivery took place in Abuja, and Senator Ben Murray-Bruce announced the news on Twitter. In a video announcement from the hospital, Daniel described the birth as an “immeasurable blessing”. He revealed that he was in the labour room during the delivery for the first time, saying, “I wasn’t there for my other children. This is the first time.” He also shared that he is a grandfather and expressed gratitude to his first daughter. Daniel was previously married to American R&B singer Stephanie Mills from 1980 to 1983. He had a daughter born in 2020 from his Nigerian wife.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
Today, at 71, Jeffrey Daniel remains active in the entertainment industry. He continues to perform, choreograph, produce, and compose with some of the biggest names in show business. His influence can be seen in the work of countless dancers and musicians who have followed in his footsteps. The man who taught Michael Jackson to moonwalk has found a new home and a new chapter in Nigeria. As he celebrates another year, his legacy as a pioneer of dance and R&B remains secure. August 24 is not just his birthday—it’s a celebration of a life that has touched millions around the world. Happy Birthday, Jeffrey Daniel
