The Rise of Urbankiz: Innovation or Appropriation?

Exploring the Evolution of UrbanKiz: A Dance of Innovation and Cultural Controversy

Kizomba, a dance and music genre born in Angola, has captivated the world with its smooth, grounded movements and deep cultural connections. However, in recent years, a new variant—Urbankiz—has taken the global dance scene by storm. While celebrated for its innovation and appeal to modern dancers, Urbankiz has also ignited debates about cultural appropriation and the erasure of Kizomba’s African heritage.

The Origins: Kizomba’s Deep African Roots

Kizomba originated in Angola in the late 20th century, heavily influenced by Semba, the vibrant dance and music that emerged during Angola’s colonial era. Kizomba is more than just movement—it embodies the history, emotions, and social connections of Angolan culture. The music, with its melodic rhythms and soulful lyrics, tells stories of love, struggle, and resilience. As Kizomba gained international popularity, its essence remained intact—until a shift began with the rise of Urbankiz.

Urbankiz: A European Reinterpretation

Urbankiz, primarily developed in France and other parts of Europe, diverges significantly from traditional Kizomba. While Kizomba emphasizes fluidity, connection, and grounded movement, Urbankiz incorporates elements of hip-hop, electronic music, and more stylized, rigid techniques. The influence of pop culture and urban beats reshaped the dance, making it more visually dynamic and performance-oriented.

While some see Urbankiz as an evolution of Kizomba, others argue that it is a rebranding that neglects the Angolan origins of the dance. The problem is not the evolution itself but the lack of acknowledgment of where Kizomba comes from. Many Urbankiz dancers and instructors promote their style without referencing the rich history that made it possible.

Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Evolution

The debate surrounding Urbankiz is not just about dance—it’s about cultural ownership and respect. African and Angolan dancers have voiced concerns that Kizomba is being overshadowed and erased in favor of Urbankiz, which is often marketed as an entirely separate genre rather than a branch of Kizomba.

At international festivals, Urbankiz workshops are frequently prioritized over traditional Kizomba, leading to a growing number of dancers who learn only the modernized version without understanding its roots. This mirrors a historical pattern where African and Afro-Caribbean cultural contributions are diluted, repackaged, and commercialized without proper credit to their originators.

Can Both Styles Coexist?

Despite these challenges, there is room for both Kizomba and Urbankiz to thrive—if the balance is maintained. The key is education and acknowledgment. Dance instructors, festival organizers, and dancers must actively promote Kizomba’s history alongside Urbankiz. Supporting Angolan artists, attending traditional Kizomba workshops, and listening to authentic Kizomba music are small but significant ways to respect its origins.

As the global dance community continues to evolve, it must ask itself: Are we celebrating Kizomba’s roots, or are we erasing them in favor of something more commercial? Evolution is inevitable, but respect for history and culture should never be sacrificed.

Conclusion

The rise of Urbankiz is a testament to the power of dance to evolve and adapt. However, evolution should not come at the cost of erasure. By honoring the African origins of Kizomba and ensuring its rightful place in the global dance scene, we can create a space where both traditional and modern styles can coexist harmoniously.

Let’s not forget the past as we dance into the future. Let’s keep Kizomba alive.

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About the Author:

Arun Pauer is a scientist turned dancer with nearly 16 years of teaching experience in Salsa, Bachata, and Kizomba. Having taught and performed in over 25 countries, he is actively shaping the social dance scene in Graz and Chennai. Whether you're new to dancing or a seasoned social dancer, there’s always something to discover.

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