We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Kaoma - Lambada
Did you know this global hit was actually a cover of a Bolivian folk song? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Kaoma: The Story Behind the Global Lambada Phenomenon
"Kaoma" is a French-Brazilian pop group known for their hit song "Lambada." Here are some interesting facts about Kaoma and their famous song:
International Hit: "Lambada" was released in 1989 and became an international sensation, topping the charts in several countries around the world. The song's catchy melody and danceable rhythm contributed to its widespread popularity.
Fusion of Cultures: The song "Lambada" is a fusion of Latin and Caribbean rhythms with a catchy pop melody. It was based on a traditional Brazilian dance style also called "lambada," which originated in the northern regions of Brazil.
Inspiration: "Lambada" drew inspiration from various musical styles, including Caribbean zouk, salsa, and cumbia. The song's energetic rhythm and danceable beat helped it gain traction on dance floors globally.
Licensing Controversy: The success of "Lambada" was accompanied by controversy over copyright infringement. It was discovered that the song bore a striking resemblance to the Bolivian song "Llorando se fue" by Los Kjarkas. The songwriters of "Llorando se fue" claimed that "Lambada" had used their melody without proper authorization. As a result, a settlement was reached between the parties.
One-Hit Wonder: Despite the massive success of "Lambada," Kaoma is often considered a one-hit wonder. While they released other songs and albums, none of their subsequent work achieved the same level of global recognition.
Language: The lyrics of "Lambada" are primarily in Portuguese, but the song's catchy chorus and melody made it accessible to non-Portuguese speakers as well. The word "lambada" itself is Portuguese and refers to a dance style characterized by close body movements.
Dance Craze: The song "Lambada" not only popularized the music style but also led to a dance craze. The dance involves close body movements and a swaying motion, often accompanied by hip movements. It gained popularity in dance clubs and social gatherings.
Music Video: The music video for "Lambada" features vibrant and colorful scenes of people dancing on the beach and in festive environments. The video's tropical and lively visuals complemented the song's upbeat nature.
Cultural Impact: "Lambada" and the associated dance style had a significant impact on popular culture in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It played a role in introducing Brazilian and Latin American music and dance to global audiences.
Legacy: While Kaoma might not have replicated the success of "Lambada" with subsequent releases, the song itself remains a nostalgic and iconic track that continues to be enjoyed by people around the world. It is often featured in dance compilation albums and retro playlists.
"Kaoma" and "Lambada" are a testament to how music can transcend cultural boundaries and leave a lasting impact on the global music landscape.