KIZOMBA
Musical genre
It is a rhythm of African origin, which was born as a result of the merger of Semba (Angola, Cape Verde) with Zouk (French Antilles).
Its spread in Europe begins in Portugal, due to the notable Angolan population in this country, to then reach France and recently to Spain ...
Within this musical genre, several subgenres are distinguished:
– Semba, which is the original rhythm, characteristic for having cheerful energy and normally a lively rhythm (although not always). It is traditionally sung in Creole.
– Kizomba is a very cadencing rhythm, which includes sweet instruments in its melody. It is usually sung in Portuguese.
– Zouk is a rhythm of Antillean origin, which has characteristics very similar to kizomba. It is typically sung in French.
– Gueto zouk is an evolution of kizomba and zouk, which fuses with R & B and the integration of synthesizers.
– Tarraxa is an evolution of semba and afro-house, characterized by having a slower and electronic rhythm.
Dance
Dance of African origin. It is very sensual, managing to convey a sense of peace and relaxation. It is danced like a couple in an embrace, creating an immense connection between the couple and the music. There are several styles: kizomba, kizomba fusion, semba, urban kizz, tarraxa or tarraxinha…
Dance Styles:
– Kizomba is danced with simple steps and a melodic cadence, full of harmony and balances.
– Semba, which is the original dance, is danced just like kizomba. Its music is usually more cheerful and lively, taking the dancers to a state of joy and play, where the man employs his best tricks to surprise his partner.
– Urban kizz is a fusion style, which usually dances with more complex figures and requires greater technique and body control.
– Tarraxinha is normally a quieter style, where not so many figures or displacements are used, giving priority to hip movements, guided by the man in the form of an infinite embrace, developing an exceptional connection between the couple.
At Baila con Sara we teach mainly kizomba fused with “urban style“, although we also teach the other styles.
So far a little summary of kizomba. If you want to go deeper and know more details of its fascinating history I suggest this article on the DJ Scan website.
