Madonna didn't invent voguing, but she was definitely inspired by the dance move made popular by the Harlem gay scene that also coined the term and gave voguing its roots during their popular balls in the late 70s to early 90s. The Harlem ballroom scene also birthed a legendary man who many consider the godather of vogue- dancer, choreographer, runway teacher and mother of his own house, Willi Ninja. Willi Ninja died of AIDS complications on September 2, 2006 at age 45, but he'll always be remembered for his style, grace and impact on the early gay scene. Here are a few tributes to Willi Ninja across the gay blogsphere:

• "As a friend and someone who loved him very much for all he has given us, I am really sad to write that Willi passed away." (Emanuel Xavier)
• "[Willi] politely introduced himself and we spent much of the night talking about that video and modern dance. "If I want to remembered for one thing," he said. "It's that I want to be known as an innovator." (Rod 2.0)
• "My thoughts are with Willi, his family, friends, his house the House of Ninja, and the entire ballroom community during this sad time." (Jasmyne Cannick)

Profile:
Who was Willi Ninja?

Voguing:
The History of Voguing

Footage:
Willi Ninja Footage (YouTube)

News:
`Voguing' Dancer Willi Ninja Dies at 45