The Bachata is a Latin dance with simple footwork and strong hip movement. The music is romantic in nature and therefore the movement reflects the story of love and heartbreak. Bachata steps involve many optional turns for the lady.

History

The Bachata originated in the countryside of the Dominican Republic. The dance is a direct reflection of the music being played in the night clubs during the 1960s. The Bachata has close ties to the Cuban Bolero.

Music

The music of Bachata is the root of the dance. The tempo is slow, approximately 120 beats per minute, and is played in 4/4. Bachata music can be referred to as Latin “Blues” music. It usually tells the tale of sadness in love and is the most romantic genre of guitar music this century.

Characteristics

The Bachata has very basic and simple footwork that moves in a side to side or forward to back motion. The romantic character of the Bachata is achieved from the sensual hip and body actions. Good use of the knees helps produce the desired hip movment.