Kizomba is a genre of dance and music that originated in Angola in the late 1980s, evolving from traditional Semba music and influenced by Zouk music from the French Caribbean. The term “Kizomba” comes from the Kimbundu language, meaning “party” or “celebration”. It embodies a slow, sensuous rhythm that is marked by a smooth and grounded movement, reflecting the fusion of African rhythm with Caribbean melody. Unlike the upbeat tempo of Semba, Kizomba music is characterized by a slower, romantic pace, making it especially popular for couples dancing.

Fun Fact: Kizomba dancing is known for its intimacy, often described as a “African tango” because of the close connection between partners and the subtle, slow movements that emphasize feeling and connection over flashy patterns.

The international spread of Kizomba began in the early 1990s and was facilitated by the Angolan diaspora in Portugal and France, among other European countries. As it gained popularity, Kizomba started to incorporate elements from other genres such as R&B, Hip Hop, and Electronic music, giving rise to a sub-genre known as Ghetto Zouk or Tarraxinha, which features even slower tempos and more pronounced hip movements. This evolution has not only broadened Kizomba’s appeal but has also sparked debates about authenticity and innovation within the genre.