Afrobeats dance is a diverse and fascinating style originating predominantly from Sub-Saharan Africa. It evolved from traditional African dance styles following the creation of Afrobeats music. This doesn’t mean that previous styles have been discarded; they have been built on by Afrobeats dance enthusiasts and musicians. Dancers like incredible Zigi and Dance God Lloyd are just a few of the new wave of dancers pushing Afrobeats dance to the rest of the world by creating new dance trends and routines to this day.

Afrobeats music plays a major role in creating and proliferating Afrobeats dance. In fact, the dance was developed as a response to the genre’s incredibly energetic and upbeat rhythm. Artists like Davido, Mr Eazi, Diamond Platinum, and Heavy K have not only created the sound that goes along with this exciting dance style but have also created memorable dance trends.

If you have seen an Afrobeats dance routine, you’ll know it’s fast-paced, fun, and easy on the eyes! It basically gives anyone I know watching it an Eyegasim! (if that’s even a word). This dance style has been around for many years; however, with the rise in African diaspora, the popularity of Afrobeats music, and a mixture of cultures, Afrobeats dance has risen in popularity worldwide. So, with that being said, here are a few things about Afrobeats dance that will definitely surprise you. 

1. There Is No Specific Name For Afrobeats Dance

After reading the headline, I’m sure you would think, “But you and several others have established a name!” But think again, my friends! A quick Google search will reveal different ways this dance is referred to. These are Afro-dance and African dance. If this is a bit confusing, you are not alone. I think it should be merged into one name so we can all do a quick search and enjoy our content. Ok, so I bet your next question is, now that we know the different names, which one should we pick? Each name is a strong contender, and I’ll explain why.

Afro-dance is a short form of “Afrobeats dance”, or dancing created by people of Afro heritage. This name is short, catchy, and easy to remember. When writing the hashtag posts for Afro-dance on Instagram, there were 378K and 780 monthly searches on Google. It is easy to see why this name is significant for describing it.

Afrobeats dance is the original term coined from the music genre ‘Afrobeats’ to describe the upbeat, quick-paced dance accompanying this type of music. This term is also widely used; however, it falls behind regarding the volume of hashtag posts on Instagram, with 20.9K total posts and 590 monthly searches on Google.

African dance is what I’d like to call the ‘OG’ term for describing dance that originated from sub-Saharan Africa. When I see or hear the name, it takes me back to the roots of how Afro-dance was created as we know it today. It calls for a more formal tone, the core of tradition with tribal clothing and a skilful display of culture. The difference between this name and the others is that it refers to a more traditional dance form. This name currently has 360k hashtag posts on Instagram and over 8000 monthly searches on Google!

So, our verdict? To be honest, that’s for you to decide. Although I admit that I am inclined toward Afrobeats dance, it’s clear that the term ‘African dance’ is more popular than the others. Let me know what you think, and post your comments below.

2. It Helps To Fight Depression 

Now, depression is something we don’t like to talk about, and why should you? It’s a gloomy topic; most people would rather shy away or ignore it altogether. But just because we sweep it under the rug doesn’t mean it will go away. It is one of the most predominant mental health problems worldwide. If we focus our lens on the UK, 19.7% of people aged 16 and over show symptoms of anxiety or depression, according to the Office for National Statistics. Yes, I did say it was gloomy, but luckily, this is where Afrobeats dance comes in.

It has been scientifically proven that dance helps fight depression. It is a form of exercise, after all. Afrobeats dance can be classed as aerobic exercise. This type of exercise elevates dopamine (the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward) and euphoria-inducing endorphins. Additionally, dancing in classes and groups allows you to interact socially and emotionally with others and is a good way to escape negative thoughts. 

Also, learning the intricacies of Afrobeats dancing is no easy task. Learning to articulate your body to the music and all the subtle nuances takes time, especially if you are a newbie. After taking on such a challenge, how could you not get a sense of accomplishment and an automatic confidence boost?

Aside from dance, the music gives off so much positive vibes that it becomes infectious. The beats and confidence conveyed by the artists give you a sense of ‘pick yourself up’ and ‘everything will be alright’. Songs like “No Lele” by Nigerian artist Wizkid’s iconic album, Starboy, have uplifting and motivational lyrics that beam positivity. One of the best lines on there –

“ When dem tell mi say, I no go fit My sista say, I tell dem say No lele, I keep going to the top And I promise to never stop, Say my eye is on the gold And im neva letting go”

(The lyrics are in Pidgin English, but the feels!) He is saying,

Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do something, I have my eyes on the prize and I will not stop until I get there.

Genius has a great breakdown if you want to look at the lyrics.

This line becomes even more potent if you know the artist’s story. He grew up in the ghetto of Surulere Lagos, he found his passion in music and on his first album, he proclaimed to himself that he would reach the top of his industry, and you know the best part? He did it! Wizkid is one of the best African artists in the world. This kind of positivity and strength of character echoes from Afrobeats music. The creation of strong positive music from countries with more than their fair share of problems.

3. It Improves Your Fitness

If you’ve ever been to an Afrobeats dance class, you’ll know you will sweat! An entire routine requires rapid lower body movement and matching arm and shoulder movements. Depending on the type of dance you’re performing, you could get your daily dose of cardiovascular requirements more than handled.

For example, dance styles like Zanku require you to jump in the air with both feet and then deliver a strong kick while in the air with one of your legs. Oh, but it doesn’t end there when you land, and you want to add a little sauce to it, keep one leg on the ground and hold the other in the air while delivering a little ‘leg work’ with it and then repeat. ‘leg work’ is another Afro-dance style derived from football dribbling.

On the other hand, Nigerian musician Bruna Boy’s Zanku style is fascinating! He does it like a martial artist. He jumps in the air, delivers a sweeping kick with either of his legs and then delivers another sweeping kick before finishing with a jump and a final strong kick.

Imagine combining this style with other moves like Pililo, Gwara-Gwara and kpakujeum in the same routine. When you get into the groove, you could combine several other moves to perfect your workout.

4.  It can help you find friends & socialise

Dancing in groups allows you to socialise with people with similar interests. It’s the perfect breeding ground for building relationships with people who are passionate about Afro-dance and could also lead to you learning other skills or discovering new ideas. How awesome is that? Nowadays, where most people are just sitting at home or stuck on mobile devices all day, it’s good to get out and meet people who enjoy the same things you do. That is why Afrobeat dance classes, festivals, clubs, barbecues, parties and events are the places to be if you want to socialise and find some comradery.