History of the Cha Cha
The Cha Cha is thought to have two possible origins. The first is the sound of the shuffle a dancer makes as they take three steps to the side. However, more likely, it is a reference to the seeds found in a Haitian rattle named “Cha-Cha.” This rattle was used in conjunction with a couple of other West Indian instruments that created the music we now use in Cha Cha. Originally, this music was fast and people would dance the Mambo or Pachanga, however, over time it became the slower Cha Cha we know today.
About the Dance
The International Cha Cha is commonly confused with the American Cha Cha. While they have similar origins, the Latin Cha Cha has very different figures. Unlike its Cuban counterpart, the International Cha Cha is generally faster and features a straight leg line and rotational hip action. That being said, while they are danced differently, the Latin and Rhythm music is more similar than any other combination of dances.
Recommended Music List for Beginners
- Dans Ta Chambre, Dany Brillant
- Pais Tropical, Macros Sales
- Ay Mujer, Andy Fortuna Productions
- Bom Bom, Orchestra Bagutti
- Got a Hook On You, D.L.G.
- I Wanna Dance, Willy Chirino
- La Llama, Chrice Ice
- Rico, Bario Boyzz
- A Namorada, Latin Jam 2
- Let’s Get Loud, Jennifer Lopez