African Dance Style (Zaouli) | The Most Impossible Dance in the World Explained

Zaouli is a popular mask dance created by Gouros in the fifties. Legends at the origin of the Zaouli mask and dance are diverse, but all say that they were inspired by a very beautiful girl
The Zaouli dance is a seductive dance and is performed by a masked character. The Zaouli mask is brightly colored and is said to represent a woman who appears in the legend of a sacred forest.
Each Zaouli mask can take as long as six days to carve. Made of Yaranza wood, the process is secretive, each artisan using their own approach. When the dance happens the dance is fast and furious, the masked man churning up dust beneath his feet. Provoked to keep up the pace by his dance partner, it's a superhuman effort guided by the spirits.
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[@Afrikleo]

Here is another interesting dance video kzbin.info/www/bejne/ponFqnWpn9iIgrc

[@ladym808]

So fascinating. We do our culture dances and also call in our ancestors to assist and when that happens, most times it's as if they take over one's body while dancing, we have no control at that moment. Thank you for this amazing video! 💜

[@8088I]

How to beat Alzheimer's!

[@ladym808]

@@8088I Hahaha, so true!

[@FZ2HELL]

Sorry but there is no comparison...

[@1ordof1o1]

psycodelic bunggie jump... chek that out :D

[@miiragirl]

This dance is performed by men in Central Ivory Coast. It was created by a girl name Djela Zaouli. When the dancer put the mask on, it is known that the dancer is no longer himself and that he is possessed by a spirit. My country is not talked about enough, I love that many people are interested in this!

[@silentnight9630]

The North Sentinel Island isn't talked about much either. But the islanders are there doing their own thing. No one interfering.

[@rupamsharma7457]

Exactly

[@Vontre323]

Its also performed in Belize 🇧🇿 this is wild , cultural and amazing

[@jamesmeagher7912]

Does the Spirit leave the Dancer when he is finished?

[@josephmiller7356]

❤ It's So Beautiful To Watch ❤.

[@Valhalla_Heathen]

Those fluid feet movement make the dancers look like they’re levitating! Absolutely phenomenal 👏🏻

[@rapunzaln1]

Omg I just said the exact same thing right before I scrolled to the comments! ... it's amazing!

[@Boediprasetya]

Anti gravity

[@housepianist]

And even more impressive is that whenever he lifts up one leg, the other leg has to support double the weight and maintain the same pace and rhythm of the dance. Amazing strength, endurance, and flexibility. 👍🏻

[@bintangdilangit3348]

They look like the have jetshoes in their foot

[@JosueMartinez-ww1vj]

I think that's what they are trying to look like a flying bird.

[@0192123]

The stillness of the upper body and the fast movements of the legs and vibrant colors reminds me of hummingbirds, especially when the dancers start to move and hover around.

[@uazuazu]

It reminds me of birds-of-paradise dancing in the way the dance creates optical illusions

[@Max_Chooch]

Really? My first thought was the upper body was still like a chicken head 😂

[@MentallyLoner]

Zaouli bird. I get that in youtube

[@Dara-ih6jq]

Humanity is sooo freaking cool. Gosh I want to travel the world and experience these beautiful people and cultures.

[@Afrikleo]

you are welcome Dara

[@davidlo8901]

You should before the peaceful community reduce everything to a black tent

[@vickyschnorbus4166]

I just can't imagine how much practice it takes to be able to do this, not to mention rhythm and the muscles that develop. I'm fascinated by it.

[@Afrikleo]

Am glad you liked it

[@aninhapmr]

Same here. Its almost hypnotising.

[@Dontbustthecrust]

Probably amazing with a jump rope

[@TemperanceLibraRising]

is that so.ething that is practiced to preferfect since spirits ultimately. are the one taking over the one dancing

[@groupzotahmailzotah7827]

Dear@@Afrikleo, Hope you are doing fine. I would like to THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for the WONDERFUL JOB you did with these videos showing some very skilled ZAOULI dancers. The performances of your video (number of views, likes and comments) after only 3 months, show what a great job you have done. IMPRESSIVE! As an Ivorian, I cannot be more PROUD of you for this great promotion of one aspect of African culture you made here. Africans have so much to show and share with the rest of the world. Be and remain blessed and keep up with this kind of great good job.

[@LambentOrt]

How the dancers are able to keep their torso relatively stationary while moving their feet so vigorously is mind-blowing. Amazing!

[@BizcochoDislexico]

A lot seems to happen in the hips

[@awilli182]

It's similar to river dancing.

[@untissify]

@@awilli182 or skipping.

[@DayDreamDragon36]

Hot sand, they should move like that

[@twiztidyournutz]

Legit magick

[@apexdoll]

As a dancer of just under 25y (started at 18m old with Papa) just dancing immersed in the percussions of Africa will send you into a trance- I am not at all shocked but humbled to read from those native to Ivory Coast that its believed the dancer becomes a host to a greater spirit. Yoruba dancing is one of my ‘humble brag’ PASSIONS that nobody cant tell me Im not born to do- anytime Ive danced Oshun or been on the floor to assist with Shango I was no longer human I dont know how to explain it nor can I recount much after ceremony. Ive had to reiterate to foreigners its not demonic possession, the only demonic possession is fear inside yourself! Since dance is a physical FELT language I probably didnt explain myself to great, but tuh look at this brillinant artistry you can feel it no need for words 😍 ore yeye asè oo!

[@johanea]

Nonsense.

[@dillkosher5116]

Man I know this a KZbin comment but god damn you fine 😂 where you from?

[@lindadavis2049]

​@@johaneaFrom someone non melinated. That's why you will never understand a lot of things😂

[@alexandrpautoff451]

Zaouli is a traditional mask dance of the Guro ethic group of Côte D’Ivoire that was created in the 1950s. There are various different legends behind the origin of the dance, but the majority of legends agree the inspiration behind the dance was a beautiful girl named Djela Lou Zaouli, daughter of Zaouli.

[@diplomate4301]

I agree

[@round69]

is she still alive ?

[@EdibleKnife]

The way it looks like they're just floating around is honestly the trippiest and coolest thing I've ever seen in a dance

[@Afrikleo]

Thanks for watching

[@ChildOfGoddd]

It’s DEMONIC

[@shawndavis2616]

@@ChildOfGoddd 👈👆Found the bot spammer/ fake christian.

[@ChildOfGoddd]

@@shawndavis2616 bot!? 🤖 😂

[@luuanafonseca1]

Shawn Davis the narator said it himself. It’s a supernatural dance. When he puts the mask on, it’s no longer him who is dancing but the spirit that posses him. Now just think about it

[@LadyCoyKoi]

"The music must follow the dancer, not the other way around." If only I knew of this as a kid, I would've been an amazing dancer.

[@briancmcginnis]

Hahaha!

[@BlairMountainNetwork]

As a drummer & dancer... 🪘💃 ~ I appreciate this!!! 🙏🏽 (Some other traditions, like is the Mid-East, as a courtesy have ways the dancer can communicate to drummers to speed up or slow down... but this is typically through vocalizations like a trill or a hand movement).

[@GizzyDillespee]

I noticed a couple times with green-and-white-legs the lead drummer anticipated that he would kinda repeat a move in the next "bar", but he changed it up more, and then the beat momentarily reflected a dance move that wasn't happening. It happens, but you can see and hear clearly that the drummers are trying to stay with the dancer, not the other way around! Shamanistic drumming goes like that - the quickening follows the spirit of the moment.

[@rattttooooo]

the way the dust moves under the dancers is so mesmerizing, this is a really beautiful and powerful dance and performance.

[@MichaelTheoret]

Truly mesmerizing ! I cannot even begin to imagine the strength ,stamina,and sense of timing involved in Zaouli Dance !

[@francoiseprecheur2222]

Aucune endurance, aucune force, aucun sens du timing. Ces gens sont possédés par un esprit. D'ailleurs, c'est expliqué dans le comentaire de présentation.

[@leofoenerro367]

Its tough, but you can learn to do such movements in a year or two, you'll just only be able to do it for like 10 seconds at a time until you build up the stamina yourself as well.

[@juliang.4853]

true the amount of dust being pushed in the air just by the wind created from dancing tells stories about the amount of energy going into this. The legs must heat up to like 40 degree Celsius :D

[@francoiseprecheur2222]

@@leofoenerro367 : non, vous ne pourrez pas l'apprendre car ces "danseurs" sont en transe (donc possédés par un ou des esprits qui leur donne la capacité de tels mouvements).

[@kevindevlieger300]

First thoughts.. what a cardio training. 😅

[@addiegraves3]

This is incredible, the fact that the dancers are not dancing to the beat of the drums but rather the drummers are drumming to the dancers is just one amazing of the aspects ❤️

[@FuriosaTerraToma]

Ditto

[@iKazzaa]

@Kitty Silverlake some weird wisdom words lol

[@felipedourado]

Tf are you saying! Kkkkk

[@janzzen9095]

The solist drummer folowing the movements of the dansers is quite comon in West african cultures.

[@offlineraided]

How is this a fact and not your random irrelevant opinion?

[@KonnieHua1980]

This dance is hypnotic. There are so many incredible tribal dance traditions throughout the world. I'm sure they all hold important meanings for humanity.

[@Afrikleo]

Thanks for watching

[@JoaquinParker]

Ushering in the anti-Christ. The spirit is already here.

[@cyndispeed8233]

@Tyra Davis they openly talk about these people being possessed by spirits when they put on a mask and do this. What spirits do you really think they are talking about? Or do you just think they are making it up?

[@somefuckstolemynick]

The important meaning of “hey dude, look at this cool shit I can do, bet you I can pick up chicks with it!”

[@ericmoberg7679]

@@cyndispeed8233 pretty sure they use hallucinogens in some cultures to get to a trance like state between the heavens and earth

[@vannigiovannigio8861]

That dance is mesmerizing. Very high energy. They are floating. The dust makes it look real.

[@okosuebiyerinkelvin4582]

Respect to this our people....❤❤❤ The fluidity of their leg moves and their stamina is phenomenon... African culture is magical...

[@ashtonyoshi6811]

Just imagine how much knowledge people can have if countries weren't fighting each other, people respecting one another and gave each culture a chance

[@saythesaysaythesay4519]

I hope the polish brain learn some thing

[@Sandlin22]

@@saythesaysaythesay4519 you're a perfect example of why it'll never come true

[@saythesaysaythesay4519]

@@Sandlin22 Ask the Polish and they will tell you why, they flee their country cos of Hilter instead of learninģ from History they insult and attack refugee, they modern history disgrace,

[@devintompkins9626]

@@somalitalk8383 😂 funny even though america simply took what already existed and made it better. You r welcome

[@Mayakran]

@@somalitalk8383 take a real hard think about what you just wrote. Is that true? Is that ALL Western culture have the world? And are any of those things exclusive to the West?

[@vanessabogaert2104]

I’m sitting down and this is making my legs tired. Incredible athletic control and artistry. Great workout for the mind and body too. I would love to see it in person.

[@iskindersam4899]

Cute

[@natly3123]

😂🤣🤣🤣😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@groupzotahmailzotah7827]

Dear Mrs. @Vanessa Bogaert, Hope you are doing fine where you live. The expression of your interest in this traditional dance from my country, Cote d'Ivoire, is so touching. Thank you. I think that out of the more than 4.7 millions who viewed this nice video since 3 months that it is aired, there may be, like you, a good 50 to 100 persons truly interested in making a trip on the ground and enjoy, live, the incredibly vibrant sounds of Zaouli. In the past, they were the flag bearer of our culture and tourism. So if I am correct in my assessment, it is then possible to organize, for such a group, a trip to Cote d'Ivoire. It will be a great trip that none of you will forget for the rest of their life, given the arrangements which will be made to welcome you. We can work on the idea and make it come true. All the best, madam.

[@natly3123]

@@groupzotahmailzotah7827 did u mean to PRIVATE message her ? Just seems to be on the wrong platform 😲

[@groupzotahmailzotah7827]

Hello Mrs. @@natly3123 How are you ? I am afraid I didn't get the meaning of your message. Can you, please, rephrase your remark so that, if necessary, I may explain again my idea ? Thanks.

[@tjsuperwierd]

As an African American going back and learning about different dances from Africa helps me see how much inspiration we take from our ancestors and the spiritual connections we have from all our dance movements

[@rock07879]

You're American. Not African American

[@Yu-mn4od]

You should go back to africa

[@tjsuperwierd]

Lol people are funny

[@followmeleadtheway]

Well be lucky your ancestors are from Africa. Our America ancestors ain't pass shit down but misery and poverty mindsets lol

[@glendabarton1914]

Yes it's fascinating. I'm white but I've always been fascinated by African culture. I took classes in Afro-Haitian dance from the famous dancer Ruth Beckford in Oakland.

[@glendabarton1914]

I thought, and I think a lot of people thought, that this was an ancient dance from Ivory Coast culture! I was amazed to find out that this dance was invented sometime in the 1959's - 1960's. I wonder what the initial motivation was. It makes me believe it's a phenomenal creative achievement, amazing to invent something so incredibly hypnotic and masterful and so recently, not centuries ago. I could watch it for hours! Makes me want to visit the Ivory Coast!

[@Afrikleo]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@musakam]

The mask was created in the 50s, not the dance.

[@diplomate4301]

Thanks for your perspicacity. You would be welcome in Cote d’Ivoire precisely in Central West by Gouro people ( Bouaflé, Zuenoula, Gohitafla, Bonon, sinfra, Gonaté Daloa,...)

[@Paiadakine]

@@musakamso when was the dance created?

[@warrensabastienanderson]

@@musakam It is hard to see the similarities behind the costume, but I've seen James Brown and other old school tap dancers move with a similar effect.

[@keepitonemill9405]

In my country we have a similar dance, but we only use it when someone is already in the bathroom...

[@Afrikleo]

🤣🤣

[@marcelleray9545]

Ha, funny.

[@resee2507]

🤣🤣🤣🤣especially you're the last person on line 🤣🤣🤣

[@samirchavi5121]

🤣🤣🤣🤣👍

[@forestshaft9019]

😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁

[@joshaquatic6015]

This dance is so impressive! It must take a lot of energy to keep this up for so long. It's also mind blowing that drummers follow the dancer. This is just an amazing display of rhythm!

[@ahdaliafonsworth2086]

Wow when he said the drummers actually follow the dancer and not the other way around that's amazing

[@jimhood1202]

Fabulous skill. The endurance required to keep up that degree of intense movement for even a short time must be huge. Superhuman control. Respect.

[@rachelgarcia4301]

That's just it, though. It's superhuman. The narrator even tell you it's supernatural. There's a demon involved.

[@drinkitydrinks4033]

@@rachelgarcia4301 and with all that clothing in 100° weather... wow

[@earthwizz]

@@rachelgarcia4301 I think the word used was spirit.

[@princevimbai1]

@@rachelgarcia4301 it's not really super human or supernatural. Maybe to western audiences, because as an African I can say there are plenty of dances like this on the continent. When you grow up with it, it's a lot easier (still a lot of exercise). However, on your point about a demon being involved, possibly inasmuch as demons involve themselves in a lot of human activities and with them speaking of a spiritual partner. Edit: This one looks a little tamer in some ways to what the gule wamkulu do in malawi (though this one and its masqueraders are heavily associated with witchcraft internally).

[@patximartel]

Every dancer that has practiced +10 years will look super human.

[@RemSudowoodo]

Mad respect to the dancers AND the drummers

[@Afrikleo]

high regard

[@123456wasp]

Those dancers are phenomenal. The way they can do it with one leg is amazing. 😎👍

[@mscharylee]

The way they can move their legs and yet keep their upper body perfectly still truly amazes me. They are so very talented.

[@wrldofscarli]

As an African This dance makes me wanna dance! This is probably my favorite dance!

[@Afrikleo]

Thanks for watching

[@wrldofscarli]

@@Afrikleo Your welcome!

[@griseldavargas5016]

🤗No soy africana pero si tengo genes de allá y si se siente contagioso el baile, desde la ciudad del rey poeta Saludos,🇲🇽👍

[@wrldofscarli]

@@griseldavargas5016 😊❤

[@SGKUser1972]

Bravo 👏

[@dieseldog00]

I did not think a human being could move his legs and feet that fast. INCREDIBLE!!!!!

[@cyantess8423]

The spirits make it possible

[@MrLoobu]

Are you listening? The spirits are in him.

[@bertlander]

It's Satanic

[@dieseldog00]

@@MrLoobu Nah man I don't do spirits I just smoke ganja. That gives me lots of spirits lol. :-D

[@kevinlarson8083]

They cant

[@merveilmeok2416]

I was part of the crowds/audience of Zahouli dances when I was a child in Ivory Coast (it was my favorite dance). Typically, when a foreign president visited Côte d’Ivoire, the local president (1960-1993 Félix Houphouët-Boigny) loved to showcase all kinds of dances for about 2 hours (outdoors). Zahouli was the last act and it got about 15 minutes by itself. Zahouli itself came from the center of the country (in the villages around Bouaflé). The people are called Gouros. Other excellent dancers and singers are Bétés and they share the space in the center/center-west of the country.

[@nimblehuman]

That is supernatural footwork in perfect sync with the beautiful beat. Dudes are clearly in a state of shamanic trance. This is magnificent, thank you for sharing!

[@elcuarromaldito]

I hope this beautiful traditions are kept for a long long time.

[@adamakobenan4540]

Yes it is still there in ivory coast and it's one of the hardest dance to perform

[@fabianatrindade56]

This dance is incredibly mesmerizing! Lots of love from Brazil to our dear Mother Africa! 🇧🇷💚💛❤️

[@zlatananime3368]

Hola

[@fabianatrindade56]

@@zlatananime3368 Hello 🙋‍♀️

[@thetraveler1125]

It’s very similar movements to Samba dancing. I wonder if the two are connected ?

[@fabianatrindade56]

@@thetraveler1125 In my opinion, samba is quite different from zaouli. I'm not sure if they're connected, but samba does have strong African roots!

[@mdharmaraj1631]

mother of humanity

[@Jazzman-bj9fq]

That forward glide move is pretty sick!

[@jacobingram8152]

2:46 has to be my favorite part of this video. I love that rythom right there. It's just so on beat with every tap even with the rhythm switch up! Just love it!

[@Diesel357..]

That is insane! The athleticism it takes to move like that is off the charts! Extremely impressive!

[@hamaniecheenibass5729]

Yes the upper body movement is so controlled while the feet is like a different element altogether...simply mesmerizing, breathtaking. Amazing, "the music follows"

[@TheCherrykye]

Everything looks so divine, from the dance, clothing, mask and music.

[@zoemystique7773]

As an African, this dance calls to me something deep inside .... love this.

[@GrassPossum]

As a human, much of African dance and music sings to my soul. Africa feels like all of our mother.

[@jke88]

what country are you from?

[@katrinahampton2504]

ME 2....AA HERE

[@johnwright4395]

The lack of upper body movement is most impressive.

[@Sunshine96818]

The core strength is wild!!! My abs hurt just from watching!

[@Patralgan]

It may seem impressive, but it's actually really easy. If you're slightly crouched you are able to keep the upper body still while doing rapid small jumps.

[@shyampagne]

Thats bcos they bend at hips and then perform this dance. They arent standing upright

[@possumverde]

It's the result of the counter balance between the upper costume's weight and the dancer's forward lean/weight. With the right amount of lean to match the pull of the costume, the dancer can remain stationary up top with little to no need to actively adjust for balance (they could almost go limp with their upper body and remain stationary.) As a result, they're free to put their efforts almost entirely into going nuts with their lower bodies (somewhat similar to how the wire and harness systems used in Hong Kong kung fu movies free actors from having to put effort into jumping/moving and allow them to just focus on the fight choreography etc.) Also, slight changes in lean angle to throw off the balance a bit can cause horizontal movement nearly on their own (sort of a controled falling forward/backward) which is where that gliding visual effect mostly comes from. Edit: Also, it's their ability to lean forward while maintaining close to the same center of gravity as if the were standing straight that makes staying on their toes easier. Leaning forward naturally makes your heels want to rise up. That takes a good bit of strain off their calf muscles and lets them maintain their rapid pace longer.

[@danmarthan8029]

The upper body movements are concealed by the drapes.. But very impressive indeed. 👏👏👏

[@raissapaulekouakou2001]

I love my country. thank you for promoting our beautiful culture

[@Keepwallking608]

Puedes darme tu Facebook?

[@PLuMUK54]

I first saw this at a festival many years ago. What amazed me most was that their feet moved so fast, they became a blur, giving the impression that they were floating.

[@l.f.antrider1795]

The working of costume, mask and design is sublime. As a person who is into making masks and costuming and appreciates dance, this is top level for me

[@TheJofrica]

I feel like the stripes on the legs helps to see visually what’s going on with the moves. As a breakdancer, I always encourage my peers to wear brighter pants colors and white shoes, so the moves can be seen, especially on a dark stage. The Adidas stripes on old school b-boy clothing actually helped in this regard too. Peace ✌️

[@sidilicious11]

I love the look of the striped legs.

[@rameshboddu9546]

I AM from India. This was awesome. The uniqueness of AFRICA is tribal traditionality.

[@shweetypumpkin3509]

@Jay Rock AK India is beautiful ❤️

[@newgl8736]

Nice Im from africa, SUDAN🇸🇩 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙

[@wittyjoker4631]

Unique... not really. Ever see a Maori war dance.

[@Arya01201]

@Jay Rock AK Noone give a f to pakistani

[@mohammadmadu]

Have u seen Airtel

[@reb_d1143]

How on earth do they glide along like they are on wheels? So amazing.

[@BiPolarBear128]

that first one ..he was just gliding ..amazing ..this must be the inspiration for michael jacksons moon dance for sure

[@hapcheer]

Native dances teach us about the respect and living in tune with nature. Respects from India. It’s indeed a spiritual experience to dance like this.

[@zaitunjumakeji4120]

New you know what you are talking about.

[@jknayak7132]

@@zaitunjumakeji4120 Indian dance forms, especially classical like Bharata Natyam, Kuchipudi are Acts of Worship. Of the Divine and Nature

[@VenusianEmpress444]

Perfectly said

[@xxxyungarachnid6473]

What does dancing have to do with living in tune with nature

[@Manoatevarua]

@@xxxyungarachnid6473 Many things You connect with your environment and with nature through dance

[@jayzimmer1224]

How quickly the musicians change to match dance movements. Awesome! Beautiful 😍

[@Afrikleo]

Thank you so much!

[@5DNRG]

It's like they float above their legs....mesmerizing to watch.

[@glendabarton1914]

I second that emotion!

[@echospaw899]

This dance style and the costumes are beautiful. I would love to experience this in person. Mesmerizing!

[@mfrenchcazenovia]

This dance is so stunning. The physicality reminds me of Irish step dancing, where the torso and arms are held rigid, and all the beautiful energy is in the legs and mostly the feet.

[@Afrikleo]

these guys are good dancers.

[@SunflowerAspenPlays]

This is so beautiful and unique. I can't imagine the years of practice it takes to do this.

[@Afrikleo]

Amazing

[@tyronevaldez-kruger5313]

Really unique. Never seen something like that in rythm & dance. Watched it with my head tilted like a German Schäferhund puppy

[@ChildOfGoddd]

It’s DEMONIC!

[@SunflowerAspenPlays]

@@ChildOfGoddd not everything revolves around Christianity.

[@azazelswings6194]

@@ChildOfGoddd you're the demonic one trying to demonize a tradition that stems further back than Christianity or the Abrahamic faiths as a whole.

[@alsmith9853]

How amazing and skilful the dancers are, and the musicians too. It's so vital and alive! It's brilliant to see how each culture has evolved their own dance styles

[@susanhuntley9262]

Its beautiful and the athleticism! Amazing art

[@JNB520]

You kept your word, this is the most impossible dance in the world ! I'm speechless

[@PestilentAllosaurus]

This is my favorite dance to witness in the entire world. I always respected those playing the instruments as well; but had no idea they followed the lead of the dancer! I've learned so much about my favorite dance because of you! Thank you so much for educating us!

[@Afrikleo]

Thanks for watching

[@christinemott8799]

I knew it in my heart but he confirmed my thoughts

[@oceejekwam6829]

Quite amazing. Africa is home to so many unique cultures and traditions.

[@williammckinney567]

That is a fact.....

[@guiguijol]

Yeah I always remind of this when a stupid bum talks to me about "black" culture.... ...like..."Which one?"

[@nunobear1003]

@@guiguijol they mean rap, sneakers, and expensive cars🥴

[@marcbecker9554]

…and than came religion…

[@DonVigaDeFierro]

@@marcbecker9554 You mean christmuslim religion, specifically.

[@kathimeci5179]

WOW! Look at how even and steady the upper body is. Amazing dancers.

[@gora876]

Holy mother of god!!! What a phenomenal combination of instruments, beat and dance move 🙏🙏🙏

[@user-wt2rs2mm9n]

I particularly enjoy the use of the Kazoo and elastic bands.

[@KB-uu4fy]

There’s just something hypnotic about this, I can watch it for hours 😀😀😀😀😀

[@mortizthejackal2256]

It's the first time I've seen a Zaouli Dance, and I actually do find it good. My own mother had five different people on her side of the family who had Cherokee Native American ancestry and I believe cultural dances from all walks of life need to be appreciated more, as well as never forgotten.

[@Afrikleo]

I agree and thanks for watching

[@dyawr]

Amin.

[@HISDAUGHTER0002]

Okay but this is a Zaouli dance we’re talking about here and it’s PHENOMENAL ✨

[@Victorelchidosantander]

@@HISDAUGHTER0002 it's about culture also

[@ianworcester4640]

@@HISDAUGHTER0002 Yes it phenomenal , very very phenomenal because it is Demonic/ spirit controlled . Did you listen to the narrator .? "The spirits take control of the dancer"

[@sharonneethling2243]

I live in South Africa. Thank you so much for sharing. It's important that we understand the different cultures of Africa. Please do more videos like this. I have subscribed

[@Afrikleo]

Thankyou very much

[@ytallowskids2seedepravityb219]

We?

[@sharonneethling2243]

@@ytallowskids2seedepravityb219 I don't need to explain anything to you. If you don't like wat I said. Move right on. ------------->😌

[@CoolAsianGuy]

No it's not important. The entitlement and the audacity..

[@sharonneethling2243]

@@CoolAsianGuy 😃

[@TheGrowdan311]

Most don't realize the energy and stamina needed to perform that dance. Simply amazing stuff

[@revjonlevikaunda647]

Absolutely amazing! The dancer seems possessed by spirits.

[@o0gothique0o37]

This is the most amazing dance I've ever seen in my entire life.

[@JimCrossan]

Short life?

[@thenarrator1984]

@@JimCrossan he needs to get out more.

[@Arc-Tempo21]

This really is a hidden gem. I can't stop watching this. I'm super impressed knowing now that the music adapts to the dancer and not the other way around. There's a level of acuity for both parties that's almost super human.

[@HereWeAre__01]

OMG, you have got to have some strong legs and serious stamina for this. Unbelievable. Thank you for sharing this mesmerizing dance!

[@melodyszadkowski5256]

Absolutely hypnotic. How does the dancer keep up that pace for so long?

[@jheigl1980]

How is it possible that his upper body isn't moving? I think to dance like him takes hundreds or thousands of hours training to dance like him, incredible...

[@Afrikleo]

Thanks for watching

[@kappac1611]

Don't the Irish have no upper body movement in their dance?

[@possumverde]

It's the upper part of the costume that makes it possible. It's weight and placement allow the dancer to lean a good bit forward while maintaining roughly the same center of gravity they would have standing straight. That let's them stay up on their toes much easier (leaning forward naturally makes your heels want to rise up) and acts as a counter balance such that, with the right amount of forward lean, the dancer will always have a stable upper body and thus can remain perfectly stationary while going nuts with the lower body without much need to actively maintain their balance. Also, slight changes in the lean angle are used to make horizontal movement smoother and easier giving it that gliding visual effect.

[@aaronmccormick9938]

Smart one aren't you?

[@te9591]

In addition, id say the mounted mantle/mask has a type of suspension that keeps it from being jostled around. So it keeps it firm, which contrasts a great deal with vibrating footwork. You see a floating mask over frantic feet.

[@jesusbarron3761]

U 4got to mention there body it's amazing n it would be nice if yuh put up sum videos of you doing it it seems yuh know all about it

[@shweetypumpkin3509]

Here comes the white man trying to figure the black man out..

[@MasterDavidAaronWarrington]

Dope

[@octaviasworld3414]

Absolutely fascinating 🥰. Loved everything. The foot work is crazy🔥🔥🔥👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@dar4171]

If this performance went on a world tour it would earn a fortune. Amazing ❤

[@Afrikleo]

thanks. I'm delighted

[@overkings5514]

Hypnotizing, magical and a real artist of their tradition and from the clothes to the dance. Simply amazing.

[@karla.a.]

Ive only briefly seen this type of dance before on a video for a few seconds, but now that I have a better understanding of this dance and after watching for minutes, this is honestly very beautiful. So much symbolism, skill and spirit goes into it, its badass.

[@Afrikleo]

Thanks for watching

[@goognamgoognw6637]

Not his ass is normal for an african. But United statians have a bad ass.

[@siemino7444]

Drugs and time

[@goognamgoognw6637]

@@siemino7444 that's a start but if you are not the type of fishing bird specie you're not going to be able to learn to fish as well. Transpose to hominids species..

[@Michael-TheArchAngel]

Thank you for Sharing never knew such dance even existed!!!

[@Ravenelvenlady]

This makes me so proud to have Cows Ivorian family. I have loved this dance for years. Thanks for sharing it here.

[@robertsneed7689]

There's no words to explain this traditional dance of Africa. I didn't know Michael Jackson study some of these movements and incorporated into some of his dance movements. I hope one day that this dance can come into the mainstream. The costume is unbelievable and as one person said the dancer seems like he's levitating off of the ground. Thanks for sharing.#PEACE ✌🏾

[@josedieguez8754]

Michael Jackson ! Copy a lot of dances form all around the world !

[@knochengier]

James Browns moves.

[@Vunomic]

the closest you can get to this kind of movement in America, I say House Dancing has a lot of techniques that would be great supplement to this traditional dance. One of my favorite NY house dancer *Brooklyn Terry* of Elite Force/Mop Top now that I've seen this video, I see some of his influences

[@schompification]

The jackson come from ivory coast, their vilage is named krinjabo(southeast of the country). Many elders there know People who live with them. Michael Jackson himself, came to this village.

[@Addi_Teacha509]

Might be too spiritual to

[@dineshrajan8073]

நிச்சயம் வியக்கத்தக்க ஆச்சரியத்தை ஏற்படுத்தியுள்ளது. இது நிச்சயம் பாராட்டப்பட வேண்டிய சிறந்த கலை.

[@KimMorgan-hc3rk]

Astounding, original, exhilarating exhibition of authenticity in African dance moves, rythm!

[@dianecrawford9204]

The drummers are fast-moving ---lovely spirits💚

[@douglassequeira5419]

Wow, I dunno what it is but there's something beautiful and hypnotic about this dance. It just looks like they are hovering and floating in air when they move around.

[@guicohj]

The power, speed and strength of their legs is just amazing.

[@53c3000]

This dance literally got me off the couch and started tapping my feet around the floor! It’s mesmerizing. The whole costume and the fringes reminds of me some exotic birds doing the mating dance.

[@Afrikleo]

Glad you liked it

[@modestoca25]

I was thinking the same thing

[@zsavage1820]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGnTfn2req6Cmpo awesome was thinking same...

[@theinspector7882]

... that's exactly what it is... African Disco...🎶👍

[@GodWokeMeUp]

I thought about getting up to try... But then my knees said, "hold on....wait a minute....no." 😂😂

[@juanmanuelgranadosdavila4984]

This is some splendid footwork!.

[@rays5163]

I bet practicing this gives you some insane quads and calves. Also, weirdly enough, the whole focus on leg movements while keeping the upper body still reminds me of Irish dancing even though the dances themselves are totally distinct.

[@bessiebraveheart]

I'm 76 now, but when I was younger I was a known mover, BUT, this dance blows me completely away. Brilliant.

[@zwelibanzimgoqi7198]

This is spiritual you can tell the dancers go on some sort of a trance out of body experience 🙌🔥

[@leodeuxfilsdelacruz1135]

Demonic

[@lisabaltzer4190]

@@leodeuxfilsdelacruz1135. That is exactly what I thought. It is creepy.

[@fanamlawuli6761]

@@leodeuxfilsdelacruz1135 well we don't care what you Europeans think, go to hell or your so called heaven

[@donone1493]

@@leodeuxfilsdelacruz1135 good demons don't watch it you may not be able to sleep at night

[@ijansk]

No 🤣😆 There are videos with them rehearsing and even teaching the dance. Nothing trance-like 😆 This is simply an athletic skill.

[@creativitycell]

The Zaouli Vids to Psychedelic Trance / Techno Trance music going around on Social media are EPIC!!! The PsycheTrance music fits the movements perfectly and u really appreciate how fast n skilled they are!! MUST SEE! 😳

[@lucielessard4429]

Percussionnistes et danseurs en totale intelligence et connivence. Phėnoménal! Bravo! Tout à fait réjouissant et admirable!

[@Sabre912]

im never not impressed by the people who can do this dance ! not only does it look amazing to watch but looks INSANE to learn! lol

[@livetoloveandlaughlivefora6800]

This is the best video that describes the dance the feeling the meaning On the tradition of the movement no extra music on top of it I would like to know if only men Can do this dance traditionally Not for not dance class but just traditionally is it only men put on the costume in the mask since the mask on the outfit represent femininity

[@Afrikleo]

It is usally men who have been known to do this dance mainly becouse its a way of thanking Deja Zauli(a female) who once resolved a conflict that was to lead to a war bettwen kings

[@katem9555]

@@Afrikleo wow

[@callieduval3000]

Let the men have something just them only and I'm a woman

[@brianmyers4195]

Was the costume made for the dance or was the dance made for the costume? Either way, they were probably birthed by the music and are perfect for each other

[@bam-skater]

@@brianmyers4195 It's not as old as you would think, it was all invented in the 1950's. The background story and 'tradition' of it has been somewhat added later to give the impression of it being an ancient, long-forgotten origin tribal dance....sadly not the case!

[@hermeticinstrumentalist6804]

That is just beautiful. Pretty badass dancing and masks as well.

[@cristinamorenolamin3217]

This is really beautiful and totally mesmerising. The strength in the legs must be amazing. Love it. God bless you all.

[@degobah144]

The speed, the fluid yet strangely jerky movement, it's absolutely enthralling and fascinating. The amount of control is just insane.

[@Afrikleo]

Absolutely

[@darrelldundee7198]

@@Afrikleo is this along with tribal

[@dharmareadings8177]

Love Africa and it's cultures! I am reminded of Ba Gua Chang circle walking from China. The upper body stays still holding postures to refine alignment and generate life energy while the lower body moves in smooth steps. The upper body only changes when changing directions along the sphere. This is amazing!!

[@truecynic1270]

Yes, this dance definitely looks impossible except that this incredible dancer IS doing the impossible!!! Amazing stamina, co-ordination, strength and focus. Thank you for bringing my awareness up another notch!

[@MichaelEzechukwu]

I'm almost gassing out from watch them dance. OMG! A spectacle!

[@albertol1529]

This dance is unbelievably mesmerising. Imagine exercising with that level of intensity in an air-conditioned gym. You’d be dripping sweat within 15 seconds. Then imagine doing it for 5 minutes plus, in 40 degree heat, with a heavy costume on and being covered from head to toe! This is superhuman! No-one or nothing on Earth, can match this level of physical endurance, skill and creativity. African countries have so much wealth in every way, from culture, the kindness of their peoples, and their heritage. Thank God, they are now being recognised as civilised, dignified and an important part of the rich tapestry of humanity. Thank you for this video, it is a source of light in these days of darkness.

[@agubata1]

The accolade delivered with such eloquence and magnanimity of thought. As an African I've always known the glorious stuff of which we are made and always despaired at the world's contempt and ignominy. But, ultimately, we shall rise and make our thunderous mark on earth.

[@RotaryPoweredRX]

riiight..

[@wittyjoker4631]

Try wearing full plate mail and engaging in any activity especially a mortal one.

[@theshape2613]

Interesting you think that Africa is so great with all their genocide and slave trades..

[@GraceMusyoka]

Yeeeeeeeah

[@kirbykinnie3691]

Traditional African dances and music is always so fascinating and beautiful to see and hear. African culture is so amazing

[@Afrikleo]

Glad you liked it

[@dynastiekpolitiekdynastiek6243]

Totally agree! 🙏

[@CoolAsianGuy]

No they are not amazing. I mean look at their country..

[@CoolAsianGuy]

@@dynastiekpolitiekdynastiek6243 umm no dummie

[@JP-xd6fm]

Yes all except the machete culture and the mass killings for being ones a bit darker than the others, and the clitoris ablation and... well you get the point

[@Weizman-bi6bl]

I just couldn't stop watching this dance. It is absolutely fantastic ❤