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Semba is a traditional music and dance genre originating from Angola in the early 17th century. Its name is derived from the word “massemba,” which means “a touch of the bellies” in Kimbundu, reflecting the way dancers connect through their movements. Semba was initially performed in rural areas as part of celebrations and community gatherings, reflecting the joys and hardships of daily life. Over time, Semba became a symbol of Angolan cultural identity, influencing other genres like Kizomba and Kuduro.
Semba music is characterized by lively rhythms, guitar melodies, and upbeat, energetic movements. The dance itself involves quick steps and playful, sometimes humorous, interactions between partners. It is often compared to Brazilian Samba due to their shared African roots, but Semba maintains a distinctly Angolan flavor, with a focus on storytelling through movement. Dancers move with agility, synchronizing their movements with the fast, infectious beats of the music.
Semba has deeply influenced many modern Angolan genres, particularly Kizomba, which emerged as a slower, more sensual version of Semba. As Angola’s cultural and musical exports gained popularity worldwide, Semba became an important part of the country’s cultural identity, resonating not only in Angola but across the African diaspora and beyond. Today, Semba continues to be performed at celebrations and festivals, preserving the traditions of Angolan music and dance while evolving through modern interpretations.
Kompa (or Compas) is a musical genre and dance style originating in Haiti in the 1950s. Created by the legendary Haitian musician Nemours Jean-Baptiste, Kompa is a fusion of Haitian méringue with modern rhythms. It was influenced by Cuban music, jazz, and African beats, giving it a rich, syncopated rhythm. The music is known for its steady tempo and upbeat feel, driven by horns, guitars, and conga drums.
Kompa’s steady, rhythmic beat is at the heart of both its music and dance style. The dance is performed in pairs, with partners dancing close together and moving smoothly to the rhythm. Unlike other Caribbean dance forms, Kompa emphasizes fluid body movements, hip rotations, and connection between partners.
The lyrics of Kompa music often explore themes of love, social issues, and the Haitian experience, with a style that ranges from romantic ballads to upbeat, festive tunes. Over the years, Kompa has evolved to incorporate modern influences such as electronic beats and synthesizers, expanding its reach globally.
While Kompa originated in Haiti, it has grown in popularity across the French-speaking Caribbean, including places like Martinique and Guadeloupe. Kompa has also gained a following in the Haitian diaspora, especially in the United States, Canada, and France. Over the decades, Kompa has influenced other music genres, including Zouk, and continues to evolve with contemporary trends while maintaining its Haitian roots.
Tarraxinha, often described as the “slow and sensual cousin” of Kizomba, originated in Angola and developed as a more intimate and grounded form of dance. Emerging in the late 1990s, Tarraxinha focuses on small, controlled movements, with partners maintaining a close embrace while moving primarily through their hips. Unlike the flowing, traveling nature of Kizomba, Tarraxinha emphasizes musicality, isolation, and body control, creating a more intimate connection between dancers.
Tarraxinha evolved alongside Kizomba but stands out for its unique style and approach. It emerged from Angolan nightlife and the streets, where dancers sought a more intimate, rhythm-driven dance that focused on expressing the slow beats of Kizomba music. The influence of Kuduro—another Angolan genre that involves strong beats and fast-paced movements—can be seen in the body isolations of Tarraxinha, but its pace is much slower, with dancers responding to the beats in small, precise movements.
One of the defining features of Tarraxinha is the close embrace between partners, often focusing on the lower body, with hips and legs as the center of movement. The dance is characterized by subtle body isolations and precise, slow-paced steps. Dancers express the rhythm through minimal movement, usually performed in place, with an emphasis on the connection between partners.
The music that accompanies Tarraxinha is slower, often containing heavy bass lines and deep beats that invite dancers to explore deep levels of musicality and sync with their partner. The focus is on interpreting the music through subtle, intimate movements rather than large, expansive steps.
Tarraxinha gained popularity in Angola and, later, throughout the African Portuguese-speaking countries. It soon spread to Europe, particularly in Portugal and France, where Kizomba and Tarraxinha became integral parts of the social dance scene. Its close, intimate style and focus on rhythm have made it a favorite in Kizomba parties and social events around the world.
Today, Tarraxinha continues to evolve, blending with modern influences such as Urban Kiz and Afrobeat, while maintaining its core elements of musicality, body control, and intimacy. As it spreads to global dance communities, Tarraxinha remains deeply connected to its Angolan roots, offering dancers an opportunity to experience the deeper emotional and rhythmic aspects of dance.
Urban Kiz, often referred to as Urban Kizz or Kizomba Fusion, emerged in the mid-2010s as a modern, urban adaptation of traditional Kizomba. While rooted in the sensual, flowing movements of Kizomba, Urban Kiz incorporates influences from hip hop, electronic music, and other urban dance styles. The genre originated in Europe, particularly in France and Portugal, where young dancers wanted to create a more dynamic and varied version of Kizomba, with sharper movements and more intricate footwork.
Urban Kiz still maintains many of the foundational elements of Kizomba, such as partner connection and musical interpretation. However, the music accompanying Urban Kiz often has a heavier electronic beat, influenced by genres like R&B, rap, and EDM. Dancers adapted to this new rhythm by introducing more linear movements, syncopation, and a modern aesthetic. As the dance developed, it gained a following in urban areas where dancers wanted a version of Kizomba that could reflect contemporary music and culture.
One of the primary differences between traditional Kizomba and Urban Kiz is the distance between the partners. While Kizomba relies on a close embrace, Urban Kiz allows for more space, enabling the dancers to perform more intricate footwork and sharper turns. The connection between the dancers is still key, but there is more freedom to express individuality through creative styling and complex body isolations.
Urban Kiz music is generally characterized by remixes of popular songs, electronic beats, and R&B influences. This allows for a more varied interpretation, with dancers incorporating pauses, dramatic movements, and dynamic shifts in energy to reflect the beat of the music.
Urban Kiz has gained immense popularity worldwide, with festivals, workshops, and social dance events dedicated to the style. Countries like France, Portugal, and the Netherlands have played a key role in its spread, and now Urban Kiz is danced across Europe, North America, and beyond. While it initially caused controversy among Kizomba traditionalists, Urban Kiz has developed its own identity and continues to evolve, blending elements from various genres to create a modern fusion that appeals to younger generations.
Today, Urban Kiz is recognized as a distinct style within the larger Kizomba community, with its own set of techniques, music, and movement vocabulary. It has inspired new generations of dancers to push boundaries while maintaining the essence of partner dance. Urban Kiz’s evolution is a testament to how dance forms can adapt and grow in response to contemporary music and culture.
Kizomba, both a music genre and a dance style, originated in Angola in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Emerging from a blend of Semba, a traditional Angolan dance, and the influence of Zouk music from the French Caribbean, Kizomba developed a slower, more sensual rhythm. The music, though rooted in African rhythms, incorporated synthesizers and electronic beats, making it distinct and appealing to a wide audience.
Semba, often considered the predecessor to Kizomba, is a vibrant Angolan dance with fast rhythms and energetic movements. It has been popular in Angola since the 1950s, celebrated at parties and social gatherings. As zouk music reached Angola, particularly through the iconic French Caribbean band Kassav’, local musicians began to fuse these genres. Zouk’s slower beats and romantic undertones resonated with young Angolans, leading to the birth of Kizomba as a more intimate, close-partner dance. Eduardo Paim, often called the “father of Kizomba,” was instrumental in refining this new musical fusion, cementing its popularity.
In Angola, Kizomba quickly became a favorite dance at social events, parties, and clubs. Its sensual, flowing movements, where dancers stay in close embrace, contrasted sharply with the more energetic and upbeat semba. The term “kizomba” itself, which means “party” in Kimbundu, highlights its social nature, as it often accompanied celebrations and festive gatherings. The music’s catchy, melodic beats and emotionally expressive dance helped Kizomba spread rapidly across the Portuguese-speaking world, including countries like Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, and Cape Verde.
By the early 2000s, Kizomba began to make its mark in Europe, especially in Portugal, due to the shared language and cultural ties with Angola. It soon gained a following in other European countries such as France and Spain, eventually spreading to the Americas, Asia, and beyond. With its captivating rhythm and close partner connection, Kizomba evolved as an international dance sensation. Festivals, workshops, and social events began appearing globally, making it a staple of both Latin and African dance communities.
As Kizomba’s popularity grew, new subgenres emerged, such as Urban Kiz, which incorporates more modern, urban movements into the dance. However, despite these developments, Kizomba remains deeply connected to its African roots, with its emphasis on flow, connection, and musical interpretation staying true to the traditions it emerged from.
Today, Kizomba has a significant presence in global dance culture, from local dance clubs to international festivals. It continues to evolve, absorbing elements from other dance forms while preserving the core principles of connection and rhythm. Whether danced in its traditional form or through newer, urban adaptations, Kizomba continues to captivate dancers and audiences with its emotional depth, rhythmic complexity, and cultural richness.
Kizomba’s journey from the streets of Angola to the global stage highlights not only the dance’s versatility but also its power to connect people through shared movement and music. As the dance continues to evolve, its roots in Angolan culture remain a proud and integral part of its identity, making Kizomba a true cultural treasure.
Enah Lebon, originally from Haiti, is one of the most recognized figures in the world of Kizomba and Urban Kiz. Known for his originality and creativity, Enah has significantly contributed to the development of Urban Kiz, a modern evolution of traditional Kizomba. His unique style combines elements of Kizomba with influences from hip hop, R&B, and urban dance, making him a standout artist in the global dance community.
Enah Lebon is one of the pioneers of Urban Kiz, a dance style that emerged in Paris in the early 2010s. Along with other innovators like Curtis Seldon, Enah helped shape the new style by incorporating more dynamic and linear movements compared to traditional Kizomba, which is characterized by its close embrace and grounded footwork. Urban Kiz introduced elements such as sharper lines, isolations, and foot taps, often synced to more electronic and urban beats.
Enah has gained international acclaim for his contributions to the Urban Kiz scene. His workshops are highly sought after, and he regularly participates in dance festivals and congresses worldwide, including in countries like Canada, the United States, and Germany. His passion for teaching and innovation shines through in his classes, where he emphasizes “attitude” and creativity.
As an innovator and ambassador of Urban Kiz, Enah Lebon continues to push the boundaries of what the dance can be. His ability to blend tradition with modernity has not only earned him respect within the dance community but also allowed him to shape the future of Afro-Latin dance on a global scale.
For anyone looking to explore the latest trends in Kizomba or Urban Kiz, Enah Lebon is an essential figure to follow. His unique style and influence make him a key player in the evolution of Afro-Latin dance.
Nuno and Nagyla have been at the forefront of a successful career in the world of Kizomba and other Afro-Latin dance genres. This dance duo from Portugal and Brazil began their journey in 2009 as part of a school dance team. Their passion and talent quickly gained international recognition after winning the ÁfricaAdançar International Kizomba Championship in 2010.
Following their early successes, Nuno and Nagyla continued to shine in the Kizomba and Latin dance scene. After joining the Afrolatin Connection dance company, they honed their skills in African and Latin rhythms, developing a unique artistic connection that stands out in every performance. Their versatility has allowed them to master not only Kizomba, but also salsa, ballet, and contemporary dance.
Throughout their career, the duo has collected numerous prestigious titles, including winning the Portugal Salsa Open in 2013 and 2014, which led to them representing Portugal at the World Salsa Open in Puerto Rico. In 2015, they were crowned World Kizomba Champions after winning the Kizomba Open. Their creativity and musicality have firmly established them as icons in the Afro-Latin dance world.
In addition to their competitive success, Nuno and Nagyla have served as judges at significant competitions like Africa a Dançar and the Kizomba Championship in Italy. They were also semifinalists in Spain’s Got Talent in 2018 and finalists in Portugal Got Talent in 2020, showcasing their versatility and popularity across multiple platforms.
Today, Nuno and Nagyla continue their work as instructors and performers, traveling the world to participate in international congresses and events. Their dedication to continuously evolving Kizomba, and their ability to convey passion through every move, keeps them as influential figures in the Afro-Latin dance community.
DJ Fofo-Jah, based in Canada, has reshaped the Kizomba and Zouk music scenes by blending genres like Dancehall, Tarraxa, and Urban Kiz. With over eight years of experience, Fofo-Jah has become a prominent figure at international festivals and digital platforms, where his mixtape “200% Kizomba” has gained significant popularity.
His sets mix traditional and modern sounds, attracting a global following. Fofo-Jah’s innovative approach to music, combining Afro-Caribbean rhythms with urban beats, has made him a key influence in modern Afro-Latin music.
Fofo-Jah’s music is characterized by experimentation and boldness. He seamlessly blends Afro rhythms with urban sounds, creating a vibrant atmosphere on the dance floor. His sets are known for their dynamism, appealing to both traditional followers and younger audiences.
Fofo-Jah has graced the stages of major Kizomba festivals across Canada, Europe, Latin America, and Africa. His unique style has made him a role model for up-and-coming artists seeking to modernize Afro-Latin rhythms. His ability to ignite dance floors has cemented his place as one of the most sought-after DJs in the industry.
As his popularity continues to grow, DJ Fofo-Jah remains a key player in the evolution of Kizomba and Zouk. His ability to merge diverse rhythms ensures that he will continue to influence Afro-Latin music in the years to come, securing his position as one of the most influential DJs of his generation
DJ Ichigo, originally from France, has solidified his place in Afro music, specializing in Kizomba, Ghetto Zouk, and Tarraxo. His dynamic energy and musical creativity have earned him global recognition, especially after winning the prestigious Global Tarraxo competition, which gave him the title “Prince of Wakanda.” With his innovative approach to blending traditional African rhythms with modern beats, DJ Ichigo has become a sought-after performer at major international festivals, captivating audiences around the world.
Ichigo’s journey in Afro music began in France, where he quickly gained attention for his ability to mix Kizomba with contemporary sounds like Ghetto Zouk and Tarraxo. His DJ sets provide a unique experience, where his passion for music resonates through every beat, engaging audiences with an immersive musical journey. His rise in the Afro music scene is a testament to his talent and hard work.
A major milestone in DJ Ichigo’s career was his victory at the Global Tarraxo competition, where he was crowned “Prince of Wakanda.” This prestigious recognition not only solidified his status as one of the top Kizomba DJs globally, but also propelled him to perform at renowned festivals such as the Wakanda Festival. His success continues to grow, and he remains a highly sought-after artist in the world of Afro music.
DJ Ichigo’s style is marked by his ability to seamlessly blend traditional African rhythms with modern, innovative sounds. His performances create a unique atmosphere, connecting with audiences on a deep level. He doesn’t just make people dance; he creates a full sensory experience, where each mix is carefully crafted to captivate his listeners. His creativity has become a hallmark of his sets, elevating the Kizomba scene.
With his charisma and talent, DJ Ichigo has performed on international stages, becoming an influential figure in Afro music. His performances at various festivals have allowed him to bring the richness of African music to diverse audiences, fostering a global appreciation for Kizomba and its related genres. His work continues to inspire dancers and music lovers worldwide, pushing the boundaries of what Afro music can be.
DJ Ichigo is a true innovator in Kizomba and Afro music. With his title as the “Prince of Wakanda,” his skills as a DJ, producer, and dancer, and his ability to fuse genres in groundbreaking ways, Ichigo remains a central figure in the global Kizomba community. His future in music is bright, and he will undoubtedly continue to surprise and delight audiences across the globe
DJ Shark, born Cesar David Mataran in Havana, Cuba, is an internationally renowned DJ specializing in Kizomba, Ghetto Zouk, Semba, and Afro House. Throughout his career, DJ Shark has captivated audiences worldwide with his ability to blend traditional African rhythms with modern sounds, becoming one of the most sought-after artists in Kizomba festivals and events.
DJ Shark began his career in Cuba, where he developed his passion for music and dance. After relocating to Alicante, Spain, his career took off internationally, allowing him to perform at major festivals like the Rovinj Dance Festival, among others. Thanks to his versatility and talent, he has shared the stage with some of the most prominent DJs in the world.
What sets DJ Shark apart is his ability to adapt to different styles and genres within Afro music, from traditional Kizomba to Ghetto Zouk and Afro House. This fusion of sounds has captivated audiences across Europe and beyond, making him stand out in a competitive scene.
In addition to his success on stage, Shark has participated in competitions like the Kizomba Golden Headset in Spain, where he was a finalist, reaffirming his status as one of the best Kizomba DJs. His commitment to constantly evolving his style has allowed him to remain relevant and at the forefront of Afro music.
Throughout his career, DJ Shark has released remixes that have had a significant impact on the Kizomba community. Some of his most popular tracks include “Follow Me” and “Ta Bala”, both highly praised for their ability to seamlessly blend melody and rhythm, becoming dancefloor favorites.
With a career that continues to rise, DJ Shark remains a driving force in Kizomba music. His performances at international festivals and events ensure that his name remains synonymous with quality and creativity in the Afro music scene. His dedication to perfecting his craft makes him a must-follow figure for Kizomba lovers and African rhythms alike.
For those seeking an authentic Kizomba experience, DJ Shark is an artist to watch. His ability to fuse cultures and genres through his music keeps him at the heart of the scene, and his influence continues to grow as he brings the magic of Kizomba to new audiences.
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