Listen very carefully to “every instrument” “individually” so as to train your semba/kizomba musical ear. Keeping in mind that the focus of Semba is mostly on rhythmic motifs (or pattern).

Do “NOT” keep your ears only listening to the beats. Because if you are not a native, listening to the beats only may mislead you.

Follow the voice of the singer as often as possible even if you don’t understand the lyrics. It will train your ears to understand and learn how to dance on the “leading melody”.

Listen very carefully to the “backing vocals”. (Amazing songs mostly have “backing vocals”).

Every time the singer “stops singing”, you should listen to the “prevailing instrument” at that moment and “dance accordingly”.

Listen carefully to the instrument (or instruments) “supporting the lead vocal” and “allow your feet” to beautifully “translate the vibes on the dancefloor”. These supporting instruments give you enough scope to write your own poem on the dancefloor.

Listen carefully to the kind of “question and answer” (call & response) between the “leading” and the “backing vocals”. It will help you to be “involved” and really “get into the core” of the song.

Try to listen to “all the instruments” at once so as to “experience” what I call a “musical taste explosion”. This may inspire a relaxing and a very satisfying “whoop of joy” as you dance. It’s normal! We, Angolans use to “shout out loud” and “make a lot of noise” on the dancefloor as we dance. It’s just our cultural way to enjoy much more. It’s very healthy!