4-Year-Old Michael Jackson Impersonator A 'Treasure' To Watch
China's youngest Michael Jackson impersonator is a rising star.
BEIJING, Aug. 5, 2010 -- At 4 years of age, Wang Yiming already touts a resume that could rival those held by people 10 times his age. Better known by his stage name Xiao Bao or "Little Treasure," China's youngest Michael Jackson impersonator has wowed worldwide audiences at venues ranging from America's "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" to Shanghai's World Expo.
Offstage, the pint-sized performer hones his skills six times a week inside a Beijing dance studio. During a recent practice, an instructor guided Xiao Bao through a new routine as hip-hop music blasted from the stereo. The 4-year-old popped, locked and stepped to the beat while his proud parents watched from the sidelines.
"He's a natural-born performer," mother Bian Aiqing said. "Xiao Bao's personality has always been very animated and outgoing. He likes showing off his talents and performing in public."
Ask Xiao Bao, and he will tell a similar tale.
"I've been dancing ever since I was in my mother's womb," he said.
Once the lesson ended, the transformation began. After a quick break, Xiao Bao was ready for his solo. Changing into a black fedora, crisp suit and patent leather shoes, one of Jackson's signature looks, he danced and lip-synced his way through a mix track of Michael's greatest hits, mimicking the King of Pop in moves and in attitude.
When asked to give his reason for imitating the pop legend, Xiao Bao gave a simple, frank answer: "Because I like Michael." Influenced by an older brother who often played Jackson's songs around the house, Xiao Bao became a fan at the age of three. His favorite songs include "Billie Jean," "Beat It," "Smooth Criminal" and "Dangerous."
Although Xiao Bao traveled to Hong Kong to perform on the one-year anniversary of Jackson's death, he is unaware of the King of Pop's passing. His parents have chosen to keep the news from the 4-year-old until he is older. For now, they tell him that Jackson went to a faraway place.
"Michael's gone to visit his friends," Xiao Bao told ABC News.
