Mambo is a high energy, flirtatious Latin dance. It is a compact dance requiring little space on the dance floor.
Like other Latin dances, mambo is characterized by Cuban hip motion, which is a rolling action of the hips in a figure eight movement resulting from the alternate bending and straightening of the knees.
It is very similar to Cha Cha except that Mambo does not have a triple step before and after each rock step (or break step) but instead has a slow beat (2 beats of music) during which the dancer does not change weight.
The music for mambo is written in 4/4 time and typically danced to fast tempo Latin music. The count for mambo is 2 3 4 (1) indicating that the dancer does not step on count 1, but steps forward or backward on 2 for a rock step or break step.
Music for Mambo
- Lou Bega- Mambo No. 5
- Barry Manilow- Hey Mambo
- Beyonce- Single Ladies
- Michael Buble- Comin’ Home Baby
- Tito Puente- Ran Kan Kan
Mambo History
The Mambo originated from Cuba as a combination between American Swing/Jazz and Cuban music. The Mambo dance is attributed to Perez Prado who introduced it at La Tropicana night-club in Havana in 1943. Mambo is enjoyed throughout the world at both the social and competitive dance levels. The Mambo is a favorite of dancers due to its high energy level and infectious rhythms.
Contact The Dancing Duo today about Mambo Lessons! Also check our calendar to see if this is currently being taught!