You know, there's something to be said for getting out on the dance floor and making a total ass out of yourself... as long as you do it WELL. Case in point, Alfonso Ribeiro, AKA Carlton Banks from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Alfonso is also known as the Michael Jackson impersonating kid from the 1980s Michael Jackson Pepsi commercial -- so when I (the Mercury's #1 Alfonso Ribeiro expert) say he's an awesome dancer, you would do well to believe it.

BUT HAVE YOU EVER REALLY STUDIED THE "CARLTON DANCE"? Though he may appear to be constantly repeating the same motion, Alfonso is actually constructing a movement piece that's filled with nuance and subtle kinetic change. Take a very close look at the following compilation video of Carlton's best dances, and then try it for yourself. IT'S NOT SO EASY, IS IT? I've been practicing for years, and I still can't nail it!

And after the jump? A hilariously amazing infomercial starring a young Alfonso teaching kids "the safe way to break and pop!"