Rediscovering Connection and Creativity on the Dance Floor
Imagine a social dance space where each dance connects to other genres. In today’s vibrant social dance spaces, it’s easy to get caught up in fast footwork, dazzling tricks, and crowd-pleasing moves. But beneath the surface of every dance style lies something richer—intention, connection, and storytelling. In the world of Kizomba, a genre known for its intimate embrace and deep-rooted rhythm, there’s an opportunity to deepen our expression by borrowing certain elements from another equally soulful genre: Cuban Salsa. Yes, you heard it right, quite ironic yeah!
As a Kizomba lover, I hold a deep appreciation for the composure and connection that Kizomba offers when danced with proper technique and presence. There’s a quiet confidence in a lead who has invested time in learning not just the steps, but the language of connection. A well-led Kizomba is like a conversation—one where the follower feels seen, guided, and held in the music.
Yet, as much as Kizomba is my chosen style, there’s something undeniably valuable in the structure and freedom embedded within Cuban Salsa. One of its most underrated gifts is the intentional space it creates for the lead and follower to breathe and express themselves individually. These moments—when the connection breaks momentarily—invite styling, musicality, and individuality to shine, it’s like a celebration of the dancer’s relationship with the music.
This concept is not foreign to Kizomba, either. We can merge Ginga (for followers) and Banga (for leads)—the art of solo movement in Kizomba. These expressive elements are often overlooked in coupling, yet they can allow dancers to interpret the music with grace, personality, and attitude. However, in many social settings today, these elements are overshadowed by flashy moves or exaggerated steps that sometimes disconnect from the music’s original intent.
So what can Kizomba borrow from Cuban Salsa?
(Spoiler alert- This requires a strong basic foundation)_no amount of welcome to my YouTube channel can help 😀
1. Styling as a Conversation
As Kizomba dancers, we can learn to share space for expression, by giving both partners time to breathe and groove solo—especially in Tarraxinha or urban fusion. Leads can invite followers to style mid-dance, to encourage mutual creativity other than just a sequence of steps
2. Deeper Musical Interpretation
Something about Cuban salsa dancers is they often learn to read and respond to the intricacies of percussion, breaks, and vocals. Similarly, as Kizomba dancers—we can develop a deeper connection with instruments and lyrical phrasing. Understanding music theory, rhythm changes, and emotional storytelling. This can elevate our interpretation and make every dance step more unique (Don’t be a robot dancer, feel the music)
3. Cultural Respect and Evolution
This isn’t about mixing styles recklessly like on a battlefield. It’s about studying what works and integrating with respect. Both Kizomba and Cuban salsa are cultural treasures with African roots—Kizomba from Angola, salsa with deep Afro-Cuban influence. Recognizing their shared heritage can be a reminder that dance is not about silos, but about evolution through understanding.
In the end, the question isn’t “Which is better?” but rather, “How can we grow as dancers while honoring where each style comes from?”
Imagine a dance floor where Kizomba isn’t just close and composed, but expressive and experimental—where each partner feels free to interpret, connect, and converse through movement. Borrowing doesn’t mean losing identity—it means learning from each other to become more diverse.
So next time you step onto the floor, whether or not it’s a smooth Kizomba track, a lively salsa beat, or any other genre, ask yourself: How can I listen better? How can I express myself more honestly and naturally without exaggeration? And most importantly—How can I make my partner feel amazing in the process?
All in all, the true magic of social dancing lies in both parties enjoying—cheers and happy dancing!
