Top 10 Nigerian Dance Styles Of All Time ( Video )

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Nigeria, known for its rich culture and diversity, has a plethora of captivating dances that have captivated audiences for generations. Nigerians love to dance . Many Nigerian artists know this,

so they are always making songs for the hottest dance, or – for the more creative ones – creating a new dance move for fans to rock to and increase the shelf life of their songs. Some of these dance steps were not invented by Nigerian artists, but the moment they crossed into our airwaves, we made them our own, and created mad jamz around them.

1. Zanku Dance. It was introduced by Zlatan Ibile in late 2018, The Zanku Dance involves quick legwork, often performed with hands raised in the air. Its infectious rhythm and captivating moves have made it a staple in clubs, parties, and music videos
2. Shaku Shaku Dance. This street dance originated in the streets of Lagos and has taken the Nigerian music scene by storm. With its unique leg movements and shoulder shrugs, the Shaku Shaku Dance has become synonymous with the Afrobeat genre and has even garnered international recognition.
3. Azonto Dance. Originating from Ghana but adopted by Nigerians, it was originally created by Ghanaian singer Fuse ODG when his hit song of the same name was released in 2011 the Azonto Dance quickly became a sensation. Wizkid stepped in to show his patriotism by doing a freestyle on it. The new video went viral and gained more views than even the original video from Fuse himself. The dance incorporates a variety of moves, including hand gestures, footwork, and body isolations. Azonto Dance is known for its fun, freestyle nature, allowing dancers to showcase their creativity.
4. Alanta Dance. This energetic and humorous dance took Nigeria by storm. Alanta became a house hold name in the dance moves trend in. Nigeria around 2007/2008. The dance is Credited to music duo ArtQuake, The Alanta Dance involves exaggerated leg and arm movements, often imitating the actions of a drunk person. It gained massive popularity, with people of all ages joining in the fun.
5. Etighi dance also known as Kukere dance. Hailing from the south-south region of Nigeria, this dance style blends traditional movements with contemporary flair. It became mainstream popular when Nigerian Singer Iyanya; who is from this region released the video for his hit single, Kukere in 2012. It features graceful steps, hip swings, and hand gestures that create a visually captivating performance. The Etighi Dance is commonly performed during cultural festivals and social gatherings.
6. Sekem dance. This dance style was popularized by Nigerian artist Mc Galaxy, and it became a viral sensation. The Sekem Dance involves rhythmic body movements, including twisting, swaying, and shaking. Its catchy music and easy-to-follow steps make it a favorite choice for parties and celebrations.
7. Galala Dance. This dance step is associated with “the ghetto” or Ajegunle, Lagos. It originated from the pseudo-reggae sound made popular by artistes like Ras Kimono, Blacky, Fada U Turn, etc. the Galala Dance was a prominent dance style during the era of Nigerian music legend Daddy Showkey. This energetic dance involves fast footwork, waist rotations, and arm movements. The Galala Dance was a symbol of street culture and self-expression.
8. Makossa Dance. Originating from Cameroon but widely embraced in Nigeria, the Makossa Dance is a vibrant and sensual dance style. It combines quick waist movements, hip rotations, and footwork. Makossa means “dance” in the native tongue of Douala in Cameroon, makossa was probably the first dance trend of the 2000s. With it, artistes like Awilo Longomba and Koffi Olamide toured all over Africa, and Makossa soon spread like wildfire, becoming one of the most popular Nigerian dances, even till date. The Makossa Dance has been featured in numerous Nigerian music videos, showcasing the nation’s love for this dance.
9. Skelewu Dance. Created by Nigerian music superstar Davido, in the music video for his 2013 record of the same name. In a much more concerted effort to create a dance hit, the release of the song was coupled with a social media competition for the most liked rendition of the dance. Fairly simple, the dance is comprised of a backwards rolling of the shoulders with one arm continually extended and the other arm placed either on your waist or on your chest.
10. Shoki dance. Shoki is a Nigerian street dance by Lil Kesh. This particular dance was one of the biggest Nigerian dance trends to ever sweep through the country this popular dance gained massive popularity in the early 2010s, and the good thing is that it is still popular now. The Shoki involves a series of sharp and precise movements, accompanied by a signature shoulder shake. It’s energetic, fun, and a favorite at parties and clubs.