The Most Popular Dance in Brazil, Ranked

Choose the dance you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 9, 2024 06:35
In Brazil, dance forms a vibrant tapestry that reflects the fusion of cultures and the rhythm of the people. From the pulsing beats to the intricate moves, each dance tells a unique story and holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. Understanding these preferences not only enriches cultural knowledge but also highlights trends in dance popularity across the country. By participating in voting for the most popular dance, users contribute to a broader understanding of cultural identity and influence. This dynamic list provides a snapshot of what styles resonate most today, allowing everyone to feel connected to the cultural pulse of Brazil. The rankings offer insight and encourage discussions, drawing a more engaged global audience to the beauty of Brazilian dance.

What Is the Most Popular Dance in Brazil?

  1. 1
    46
    votes
    Samba is considered the most popular dance in Brazil, samba is a lively and energetic dance that originated in Rio de Janeiro. It is often performed during Carnival and other festive occasions.
    Samba is a lively and vibrant dance that originated in Brazil. It is often recognized for its energetic and rapid footwork, hip movements, and lively music. The dance incorporates elements of African rhythms and Brazilian culture, making it a captivating and dynamic performance.
    • Origin: Brazil
    • Year of creation: Late 19th century
    • Music: Samba music
    • Timing: 4/4 time signature
    • Tempo: Medium to fast pace
  2. 2
    42
    votes
    Forró is a popular dance style from the northeast region of Brazil, forró is known for its lively rhythms and close partner dancing. It is often performed during São João festivities.
    Forró is a popular dance in Brazil that originated in the northeastern region of the country. It is a combination of various traditional dances like the quadrilha, xaxado, and baião, among others. Forró is characterized by its lively and energetic movements, typically danced to the sound of a trio of musicians playing the accordion, zabumba, and triangle.
    • Origin: Northeastern region of Brazil
    • Music: Accordion, zabumba, and triangle
    • Style: Lively and energetic
    • Partner dance: Typically danced in pairs
    • Footwork: Quick steps and turns
  3. 3
    29
    votes

    Axe

    Axe is a dance style that originated in Salvador, Bahia, axe is known for its energetic movements and Afro-Brazilian rhythms. It is often performed during Carnival and other festive occasions.
    Axe is a well-known deodorant brand that offers a wide range of scented sprays and antiperspirant sticks for men. It is designed to provide long-lasting freshness and control odor effectively throughout the day. Known for its bold and masculine fragrances, Axe has gained popularity among young adults and teenagers for its unique marketing campaigns and distinctive packaging.
    • Product Type: Deodorant
    • Target Audience: Men
    • Fragrance Options: Multiple options available
    • Form: Spray and stick
    • Antiperspirant: Yes
  4. 4
    19
    votes
    Frevo is originating in the city of Recife, frevo is a fast-paced dance that is often accompanied by brass instruments. It is often performed during Carnival and other festive occasions.
    Frevo is a high-energy dance style that originated in the northeastern region of Brazil, primarily in the state of Pernambuco. It is known for its lively and vibrant movements, which are often accompanied by fast-paced music. The dance is characterized by quick and agile footwork, acrobatic movements, and the use of props such as small colorful umbrellas. Frevo is a visually striking and dynamic dance that embodies the spirit of carnival and celebration in Brazil.
    • Region: Northeastern Brazil
    • State of Origin: Pernambuco
    • Footwork: Quick and agile
    • Movements: Acrobatic
    • Props: Colorful umbrellas
  5. 5
    18
    votes
    Lambada is a dance style that originated in the northern region of Brazil, lambada is known for its sensual movements and close partner dancing. It became popular in the 1980s and is still enjoyed today.
    Lambada is a popular dance style in Brazil known for its energetic and sensual movements. Originating in the 1980s, Lambada gained worldwide recognition and became a symbol of Brazilian culture.
    • Music: Lambada is danced to the rhythm of a particular genre of music also called Lambada.
    • Partner dance: Lambada is usually performed as a partner dance, with dance couples moving together in sync.
    • Close body contact: The dance involves close body contact between partners, accentuating the sensuality of the movements.
    • Hip movements: Lambada is characterized by rapid and rhythmic hip movements, often referred to as the 'Lambada hip sway'.
    • Footwork: The footwork in Lambada is fast-paced and involves quick steps, spins, and turns.
  6. 6
    15
    votes
    Maracatu is a traditional dance and music style from the state of Pernambuco, maracatu is known for its colorful costumes and African-inspired rhythms. It is often performed during Carnaval and other festivals.
    Maracatu is a traditional dance form that originated in the northeastern region of Brazil, particularly in the state of Pernambuco. It is deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian culture and is known for its vibrant and energetic performances.
    • Music: Maracatu is accompanied by a unique style of music, featuring large drums, percussion instruments, and brass instruments. The music has a strong rhythmic structure with influences from African and Portuguese traditions.
    • Costumes: Participants in Maracatu wear elaborate and colorful costumes, often adorned with feathers, sequins, and other decorative elements. The costumes reflect the cultural heritage of the participants and add to the visual spectacle of the dance.
    • Roles: Maracatu typically involves two main groups of performers: the 'baqueiros' who play the drums and percussion instruments, and the 'figurantes' who dance and parade. The 'baqueiros' create the rhythmic foundation for the dance, while the 'figurantes' showcase their skills through choreographed movements.
    • Symbolism: Maracatu carries significant symbolic meaning, often portraying historical, social, or mythical narratives. The performances can depict stories of resistance, liberation, and cultural identity, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of the Afro-Brazilian community.
    • Hierarchy: Maracatu has a hierarchical structure, with a 'mestre' (master) leading the group. The mestre is responsible for maintaining the traditions, teaching the music and dance, and ensuring the coordination of the performances.
  7. 7
    5
    votes
    Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that combines dance, music, and acrobatics, capoeira is a unique and dynamic art form that originated in the Afro-Brazilian communities. It is often performed during cultural events and festivals.
    Capoeira is a dynamic and expressive Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. It originated during the colonial era in Brazil and was developed by enslaved Africans as a method of self-defense and cultural preservation. Capoeira is characterized by its graceful and fluid movements, often performed to the rhythm of traditional instruments like the berimbau. It is often described as a game or a conversation between two participants, who engage in a series of acrobatic maneuvers, kicks, and sweeps.
    • Origins: Developed in Brazil by enslaved Africans
    • Movement Style: Graceful, fluid, and acrobatic
    • Music: Accompanied by traditional instruments like the berimbau
    • Non-Contact: Emphasizes evasion, dodging, and clever footwork rather than direct strikes
    • Roda: The circle where Capoeira is played
  8. 8
    7
    votes
    Funk is a dance style that originated in Rio de Janeiro, funk is known for its energetic movements and electronic beats. It is often performed at parties and nightclubs.
  9. 9
    10
    votes
    Pagode is a popular music and dance style that originated in Rio de Janeiro, pagode is known for its upbeat rhythms and lively percussion. It is often performed at parties and other social gatherings.
    Pagode is a popular genre of music and dance originating in Brazil. It is known for its lively and energetic rhythms, combining elements of samba and traditional African music. Pagode is often performed at social gatherings, parties, and carnivals, where people gather together to enjoy the music and dance. The dance style is characterized by quick footwork, hip movements, and synchronized group routines.
    • Music Genre: Combination of samba and African music
    • Rhythm: Lively and energetic
    • Occasions: Social gatherings, parties, and carnivals
    • Footwork: Quick and agile
    • Hip Movements: Prominent in the dance style
  10. 10
    8
    votes
    Bolero is a slow and romantic dance style that originated in Cuba, bolero is still popular in Brazil and is known for its graceful movements and intimate partner dancing.
    Bolero is a slow and romantic dance that originated in Spain. It is often considered one of the most beautiful dances in the Latin Standard category. The dance is characterized by smooth movements, deep emotions, and intimate connection between the partners. The music accompanying the Bolero is typically dramatic and melodic, emphasizing the passion and intensity of the dance. The Bolero showcases the elegance and grace of the dancers, making it captivating to watch.
    • Origin: Spain
    • Tempo: Slow
    • Character: Romantic
    • Movements: Smooth
    • Emotions: Deep

Missing your favorite dance?

Graphs
Discussion

Ranking factors for popular dance

  1. Cultural significance
    The dance should hold an important place in Brazilian culture, having a deep connection with the country's history, traditions, and customs.
  2. Widespread participation
    The dance should be practiced and enjoyed by a large number of people across Brazil, regardless of age, gender, or social background.
  3. Regional representation
    Brazil is a diverse country with various regional dance styles. A popular Brazilian dance should ideally have a wide reach and be embraced by different regions within the country.
  4. Recognition and influence
    The dance should be known and recognized both nationally and internationally, showcasing Brazil's cultural richness and contributing to the country's cultural influence.
  5. Versatility and adaptability
    A popular Brazilian dance should be versatile enough to be performed in different contexts, such as social gatherings, festivals, or stage performances, and adaptable to different music styles, fusions, or modern interpretations.
  6. Continuity and evolution
    The dance should have a history and a strong foundation in tradition, but also be willing to evolve, adapt, and innovate in response to changing times and new influences.
  7. Social impact and engagement
    A popular Brazilian dance should foster social cohesion and provide a shared experience for the Brazilian population, encouraging people to engage with each other and promoting a sense of unity and belonging.
  8. Entertainment value
    The dance should be enjoyable to watch and perform, being an attractive and engaging form of entertainment for the general public.
  9. Artistic expression
    The dance should allow for creativity and individuality, enabling participants to express themselves artistically and emotionally through their movements.
  10. Accessibility
    A popular Brazilian dance should be accessible to a wide range of people, with opportunities to learn and participate available to individuals from various backgrounds and skill levels.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular dance in Brazil. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or dance is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2349 views
  • 196 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each dance once every 24 hours. The rank of each dance is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular dance in brazil

Brazil is renowned for its vibrant and lively culture, which is exemplified in its music and dance. When it comes to dance, Brazil has a rich history of diverse and unique styles that have captured the hearts of people around the world. From samba to forró, each dance has its own distinct rhythm and flair that is sure to get you moving. Samba, in particular, is one of the most popular dances in Brazil. Originating in Rio de Janeiro, this energetic and rhythmic dance is a staple at Carnival celebrations and is often performed at clubs and parties throughout the country. With its fast-paced movements and infectious beats, samba is a symbol of Brazil's vibrant and joyous culture. Aside from samba, other popular dances in Brazil include forró, a traditional dance from the northeast of the country that is characterized by its accordion-based music and lively footwork, and axé, a style that originated in Bahia and is known for its high-energy music and infectious choreography. No matter which dance you choose, there's no denying that Brazil has some of the most exciting and captivating dance styles in the world. So put on your dancing shoes and join in on the fun!

Share this article