Some energetic men dancing the agbadza
Agbadza is an ancient dance with a rich history, originating from the Ewe people of southern Ghana, Togo, Benin, and southwestern Nigeria.
It was born out of the traditional war dance Atrikpui, according to a video shared by @ewevibe101 on Tiktok.
According to the page, Agbadza evolved into a recreational dance during the peaceful era of the 1920s.
Atrikpui, also known as Kalevu or “music for the brave,” was a dance associated with Ewe warriors. During times of war, Ewe singers would sing and dance about battles, life, death, courage, and conquest.
As the Ewe people transitioned to a peaceful era, Atrikpui transformed into Agbadza, a more recreational dance, it said.
Agbadza is believed to have healing properties, with its name derived from two Ewe words: “Agba” (woven fabric stretcher) and “Dza” (injuries or pouring libation for healing). Some Agbadza songs reflect this healing function.
Agbadza is typically performed during festivals like Hogbetsotso, as well as at funerals, weddings, and other traditional events.
The dance is open to everyone in the community, regardless of class, age, or religion.
The music features various instruments, each with its unique role. A typical Agbadza performance consists of five main sections.
According to the page, they include banyinyi, a short introductory piece performed as a prayer to the gods and ancestors;
Vutsortsor, the main dance section;
Adzo, a less vigorous part of the dance, which is accompanied by the master drum (Sokpo), Gankogui, and Ahatsi;
Hatsatsa, the song cycle, featuring historical, philosophical, and reflective songs accompanied by the Gankogui and Atoke.
Vutsortsor, a final round of the main dance, which can last for several hours.
As Agbadza spreads beyond its origins as it has become a symbol of unity and pride for the broader African diaspora.
Today, the dance is performed and appreciated by people from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Ewe people and Africa as a whole.
@ewevibe101 The history of agbadza❤️🔥 #ewe #historytime #ewedance #gbadza ♬ original sound – 🥁Voice Of The Ewe🥁
MRA/AE