Zouk (Antillean)

Part of the Caribbean Specific family · 1979

Antillean Zouk — Kassav's 1979 sound, medium tempo, close embrace from Guadeloupe/Martinique. Originated in Guadeloupe/Martinique · 1979. Typically danced around 110-130 BPM (medium).

About Zouk (Antillean)

Family: Caribbean Specific
Origin: Guadeloupe/Martinique
Era: 1979
Tempo: 110-130 BPM (Medium)
Format: Partner
Beginner accessibility: Approachable

Kassav' formed in 1979 combining gwoka, tibwa, compas, beguine, and makossa into a new sound; couple dance; medium tempo; close embrace.

What to expect: The original Zouk from the French Antilles — distinct from Brazilian Zouk. Danced at Caribbean diaspora events in France and internationally. Warm, close embrace, very accessible.

Lineage

Roots

Zouk (Antillean) grew out of:

Branches

Dances that grew from Zouk (Antillean):

Where to find Zouk (Antillean) events

We don't have verified zouk (antillean) events on the calendar right now. Check the full event feed for related styles, or submit one if you organize.

Going for the first time

Caribbean-rooted partner dance nights blend social steps with a strong music-first culture. Many events are community-anchored and rotate partners freely.

Tip the DJ if there's a tip jar, learn the names of the rhythms, and respect that these are living cultural traditions, not exercise classes.

Related dances

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