Gwoka (Gwo ka) — Guadeloupe
The gwoka (or gwo ka) is the traditional musical style of Guadeloupe, of African origin (notably Ewe and Fon from Benin/Togo). It is a dance music played on the tambour gwo ka (tumba, boulè, boumra), accompanied by singing and dances. Gwoka is practiced during local festivals, community gatherings, and carnivals.
The emblematic figures include Edmar Deslandes, Isidore Simeon and numerous traditional Guadeloupean groups. Gwoka has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2014.
It influences modern Guadeloupean music and zouk, which draws inspiration from it.