Zaouli (Côte d’Ivoire)

The zaouli is a traditional musical style and dance from Côte d’Ivoire, associated with the Gourounsi (or Lobi) people of the Cascades and Centre regions. It is festive music played with drums (dji, gangan), gongs, and traditional singing. The zaouli dance is characterized by rapid hip movements and light steps on the toes.

Zaouli is ritual and festive music performed during ceremonies and community celebrations. Contemporary artists from Côte d’Ivoire have incorporated it into modern pop versions, contributing to its popularization.

References

• Wikipedia — Zaouli
• Guide Stern, Ch. 10 (Côte d’Ivoire) and Sweet Mother, Ch. 3