What is UrbanKiz
A modern dance style born in the streets of Paris, blending Kizomba roots with hip-hop influences, linear movement, and creative expression.
01 Born in Paris
UrbanKiz emerged in Paris, France around 2010-2015, born from a vibrant movement of dancers who wanted to push Kizomba in a different direction. The name "UrbanKiz" was officially adopted in May 2015.
The style was shaped by a collective movement in Paris, with many dancers blending their Kizomba training with influences from hip-hop, contemporary dance, and Parisian street culture.
Key Dancers in the Movement
Curtis & Cherazad
Pioneers in early Paris scene
Enah & Céline
Creative expression & attitude style
Moun & Karole
Innovation & teaching worldwide
02 The Dance
UrbanKiz is defined by its linear movement, creative expression, and hip-hop influences. It's a modern, urban interpretation of partner dancing.
Linear Movement
Unlike Kizomba's circular flow, UrbanKiz moves in straight lines. Partners travel forward, backward, and side-to-side with clean, geometric precision.
Upright Posture
Dancers maintain a more vertical stance with space between partners. This allows for greater individual expression and visibility of arm and body movements.
Arm-Led Connection
The lead comes primarily through the arms rather than torso contact. This creates a different dynamic and allows for more intricate arm styling and patterns.
Stops & Isolations
Influenced by hip-hop, UrbanKiz features stops, body isolations, and rhythmic pauses that punctuate the music and create visual drama.
03 The Music
UrbanKiz music blends electronic production with R&B and hip-hop influences, creating a modern, atmospheric sound perfect for creative expression.
Ghetto Zouk
The primary music style for UrbanKiz, featuring electronic beats, R&B vocals, and a slower, more atmospheric sound than traditional Kizomba.
Urban Influences
Hip-hop, R&B remixes, and electronic music heavily influence the UrbanKiz sound. DJs often mix contemporary tracks with Kizomba-style beats.
Tempo & Feel
Music ranges from slow and sensual to more upbeat rhythms. The emphasis is on musicality—interpreting the song's mood, breaks, and accents.
Notable Producers & DJs
Producers like Puto X, Samy Sam Beats, Elji Beatzkilla, Zay'x, and Chad have shaped the UrbanKiz sound. DJs including Snakes, Saï Saï, Hugo Smile, and Paraiso bring it to life at events worldwide.
04 See UrbanKiz in Action
Experience the creativity and style of UrbanKiz through these performances by pioneering dancers.
Kizomba Fusion Tarraxo
Audi & Laura
Tchikita
Jojo & Mickaela
Elegant Kizomba
Jesus & Anni
UrbanKiz Performance
JP & Stephy
UrbanKiz Expression
Audi & Pamelita
Creative UrbanKiz
Albir & Natalia
05 UrbanKiz & Kizomba
UrbanKiz
- Linear movement patterns
- More upright posture
- Arm-led connection
- Stops, taps, isolations
Kizomba
- Circular movement patterns
- Close chest-to-chest embrace
- Torso/hip-led connection
- Continuous, flowing movement
Both styles are beautiful expressions of partner dancing. They share roots but have evolved into distinct art forms with their own techniques and communities.
Express Yourself Through UrbanKiz
Join the global UrbanKiz community and discover events, workshops, and competitions worldwide.