Born in Brazil sometime around 1900, the Samba has many faces. It was very popular by the early 1920s, especially in France, and was introduced to the United States in 1933 via Fred Astaire in Flying Down to Rio. Brazilians know it as a solo dance for Carnival dancers. In the ballroom setting, it is a partner dance that can utilize the entire dance floor.
When to Dance the Samba
The Samba is flirtatious and fun, and it can work in almost any situation. You can Samba solo in a nightclub or dance with a partner for a special event. Its music has very distinct rhythms that are highlighted by Brazilian instruments.
Interesting Facts
- Arguably the most famous Samba song of all time, “The Girl from Ipanema,” was inducted into Latin Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001.
- In 1941’s That Night in Rio, Carmen Miranda danced the Samba.
- Prior to 1914, the Samba was known by its Brazilian name, “Maxixe.”