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Home / Editorials / Viewpoints / Music and Bacardi Dance: The Rhythmic Pulse of South African Upbeat Groove
Music and Bacardi Dance: The Rhythmic Pulse of South African Upbeat Groove
★ Viewpoints · South Africa

Music and Bacardi Dance: The Rhythmic Pulse of South African Upbeat Groove

Bacardi Dance, with its infectious energy and booty-shaking moves, has taken the dance world by storm. But what’s the secret ingredient that makes those hips…

Words by
Eniola Emmanuel
Published
Wed, 6 March 2024
Reading time
2 minutes
Contents▾
  • Full article
Writer
Eniola Emmanuel
Location
South Africa
Section
Viewpoints
Industry
Culture and Lifestyle

Bacardi Dance, with its infectious energy and booty-shaking moves, has taken the dance world by storm. But what’s the secret ingredient that makes those hips sway and feet groove? It’s the music! Let’s dive into the beats, genres, and artists that sync perfectly with Bacardi Dance.

1. Amapiano: The Heartbeat of Bacardi Dance

Amapiano, a South African subgenre of house music, is the lifeblood of Bacardi Dance. Born in the mid-2010s within the infectious flow of Pretoria’s brand of Amapiano, it’s a hybrid of deep house, jazz, and lounge music. Picture synths, wide percussive basslines, and high-pitched piano melodies – that’s Amapiano.

Bacardi ya Pitori: Locally known as Bacardi ya Pitori, this dance trend thrives on Amapiano beats. Performers position themselves with their backs to the camera, moving their bodies from below the waist, emphasizing those bouncing buttocks. It’s like twerking with a touch of razzness, class, and grace.

2. The Log Drum Sound: Amapiano’s Signature Beat

MDU aka TRP: The log drum sound, a wide percussive bassline, is the backbone of Amapiano. Producer MDU aka TRP figured it out, and suddenly Bacardi Dance had its heartbeat. Imagine ballet dancers doing the cha-cha, but with more booty shaking – that’s the vibe.

3. Artists and Tracks to Get Your Bacardi Groove On

Blaqnick & Masterblaq: These Amapiano pioneers know how to set the dance floor on fire. Their tracks blend seamlessly with Bacardi Dance moves.

Mellow & Sleazy: Their beats are infectious, and their rhythm syncs perfectly with the swaying hips of Bacardi Dance enthusiasts.

Focalistic: His Amapiano hits make you want to move. Tracks like “Ke Star” and “Gupta” are Bacardi Dance anthems.

4. Beyond Amapiano: Fusion and Global Vibes

Ojapiano: A fusion of traditional Igbo instrument Ọjà and Amapiano, Ojapiano emerged in Nigeria. Kcee’s single brought it to the forefront, even captivating listeners in India. It’s proof that Bacardi Dance transcends borders.

5. The Communal Groove

Unlike twerking’s public spectacle, Bacardi ya Pitori feels more intimate and communal. It’s about connecting through movement, celebrating life, and letting loose. So when you hit the dance floor, let the music guide you – whether it’s Amapiano, Ojapiano, or any genre that makes your heart race and your feet follow suit.

Bacardi Dance isn’t just about steps; it’s about feeling the rhythm, sharing the joy, and creating memories. So turn up the volume, find your groove, and let the music move you.

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Eniola Emmanuel
Words by
Eniola Emmanuel

Culture, lifestyle, and heritage — curated from Lagos, London, Accra, and beyond. Long-form essays and visual stories that document the things that matter.

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