- Dance has always been an important part of African culture, and West African dance is particularly known for its energy, athleticism, and focus on polyrhythms.
- Many of the dance moves and styles that we see in modern urban dance can be traced back to West African dance, including moves like the hip hop shuffle, the breakdance toprock, and the locking and popping steps.
- West African dance is also characterized by its use of call and response, in which a leader calls out a set of movements and the group responds in unison. This call and response structure can be seen in many urban dance styles, from breakdancing to hip-hop.