Arthur credits roller skating as his secret to staying healthy and staying youthful.
The Grammy Award-winning R&B artist revealed in an interview with People that the activity has played an important role in his physical health and creativity.
“Skating has always kept me young,” the 46-year-old shared. “I feel like it’s a necessity for today’s youth. Everyone spends a lot of time scrolling.
This month, the “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love” singer took his passion for skating one step further, teaming up with model Liberty Ross to open Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace at the Venetian Resort on the Las Vegas Strip.
This full-service roller skating venue is designed to rekindle the love of skating while providing a space for fans to gather, exercise and express themselves.
Arthur emphasizes that roller skating is more than just a workout, it is an art form deeply rooted in expression.
“It’s a form of self-care,” Arthur explains. “Freedom and expression, when you get into the rhythm of skate culture, I really feel like it’s a language. People need to understand how much fun this is.
The superstar grew up in an era when skating rinks were integral to hip-hop culture, and he encouraged other musicians to embrace skating.
Reflecting on its historical ties to the music industry, he said, “(Dr.) Dre, Snoop (Dogg) and Pharrell (Williams) would be crazy to leave here. (Hip-hop group) NWA came about through skaters. A lot of the early hip-hop groups could only perform at the rink. I still remember playing at the rink as a kid and it’s always been the foundation of the culture.
Although he has mastered the art of hitting the ice, Arthur joked that his role in the holiday festivities probably won’t be cooking.
“I’m not expected to prepare Thanksgiving dinner for you,” he quipped. “No, no. I can maybe make some mac and cheese and a little banana pudding, but that’s it.
