Biama Dance Craze: Côte d'Ivoire's Gen Z Takes Over TikTok

Biama, a dynamic evolution of Côte d'Ivoire's coupé-décalé music, is currently at the forefront of a significant pop culture resurgence. This energetic dance genre exploded in popularity following the coronavirus pandemic, largely propelled by viral dance challenges on TikTok that showcase impressive acrobatics and creativity. Young performers, some as young as five, are captivating audiences in neighborhood street battles, eager to share their talent globally.

The Yopougon district in Abidjan, a long-standing incubator for cultural trends and artistic careers, is central to biama's emergence. This working-class neighborhood has historically dictated the cultural zeitgeist, continuing a legacy that began with coupé-décalé's founders in the early 2000s. Biama is often described as an accelerated version of coupé-décalé, emphasizing speed and agility.

Dance has always been intrinsically linked to Ivorian music, with each generation learning new moves to accompany evolving sounds. Biama dancers, known as 'biamaseurs,' proudly embrace this tradition, with prominent figures like Sauce Graine and Kehou Mousso leading the charge. Despite some dismissing it as mere 'street music,' proponents believe biama's infectious rhythm and captivating performances will continue to win over wider audiences worldwide.