You can’t talk about Black history without talking about dance. But first, if you didn’t read my earlier post on African musicians’ influence on Black history, go ahead and do so. Right now, let’s talk about dance.
Dancing is something that all people have done from generation to generation. However, Black people have played a major role in influencing dance worldwide and continue to do so in new ways. Traditionally in Africa, each of the multiple tribes have distinguished dances accompanied by instruments, percussions, chanting, and sometimes storytelling. This has served various purposes including religious practices, grieving, wedding celebrations, community healing, and spontaneous gatherings.
By the way, there is no such thing as “African dance” (even though we use it frequently for ease of explanation). Saying “African dance” is like saying “American dance” which doesn’t exist. But I digress…
The video below is an example of “Assiko dance” from Cameroon. This is just one of the plethora of dances throughout Africa.
If you ask me, the best way to go through life is dancing. Growing up, my family often had spur-of-the-moment dance parties. Someone would play a song, next thing you know, we’re all dancing (at least most of us). It didn’t just happen at home, sometimes in the grocery store, I’ll turn around and see one of my siblings dancing to a tune in their minds. I didn’t realize I did it too at random places until my supervisor in college expressed that I sometimes danced along to no music on my chair. Haha! I guess we just can’t help it, dancing is in the blood.
From Africa to America, I can see the thread in the singing/chanting, cheering on, body movements, and leg work. Hope you see it too in this video.
The video below with the Nicholas Brothers and Cab Calloway is purely for your enjoyment 😉
Dancing is healing to your body and mind. So, put on some music, get up and dance! It will do you some good.
