Bachata Sensual has exploded in Europe over the last few years. Why? Social Media. Social Media has glorified, sexualized, and rocketed this dance to the forefront of the latin dance scene.
Bachata Sensual is a beautiful dance. It usually features really good looking Spaniards, tight body suits, and is entertaining to watch. However, actually dancing bachata sensual is a different story. I started dancing Dominican Bachata in Los Angeles with Demetrio Rosario years ago. He taught me fundamentals, musicality, and easy turn patterns that are interchangeable and easy to play with. When dancing bachata, I’ve always kept it simple and try my best to be grounded and connected with the music and my partner.
After taking a couple Bachata Sensual classes, I’ve learned that it’s just not for me. The sequences and patterns don’t feel natural. They feel choreographed and disconnected. Sure, there is a way to lead and follow the pattern. However, it doesn’t feel right. It looks great when done right, but it doesn’t feel right when I do it.
Aside from dancing bachata, I also dance Kizomba and Brazilian Zouk. These are two dances that have really helped me learn more about connection and musicality. Taking what I’ve learned from these two dances and applying them to bachata sensual feels like I’m going backwards. It just doesn’t make sense and I still feel disconnected when dancing bachata sensual.
Trying to lead with my arms, hands, and frame with such distance is just something I cannot grasp. If I want to lead something, it has to be from the ground, my core, or a strong frame in a closed position.
I believe bachata sensual is great for those in relationships or have a dedicated dance partner to train with. Trying to do certain moves while social dancing doesn’t feel right. I can’t lead a move that feels choreographed with someone I don’t know.
The great thing about Kizomba and Brazilian Zouk is that it has helped me with my close embrace. I’m able to lead movements and patterns in a closed position that feels natural and grounded. I’m not going to label my style of dance when I incorporate Kizomba/Brazilian Zouk moves, but let’s just say it feels a lot more connected and grounded than the bachata sensual moves.
I recommend anyone looking to dance bachata or bachata sensual to start with the foundation. Take dominican bachata classes with Ataca & Alemana, Edwin & Dakota, Junior & Carolina, Argenis & Carolina, Sueco & Joanna, or Samy “El Magico” & Carolina.
Once you learn the basics, then venture off and explore different bachata fusions. Bachata sensual will continue to grow. Video is more powerful than ever and more and more non-dancers are consuming dance videos on Instagram.
Bachata sensual is not that popular in the US. However, it is growing. Dominican bachata and bachata fusion are the primary dance styles of bachata in Southern California. For information on where to go out in Los Angeles, check out post on Where to go out dancing in Los Angeles.