Brazilian Zouk is a partner dance that began in Brazil in the early 1990s. It developed from Lambada, a fast and energetic dance that became less popular when its music style faded. To keep the dance alive, dancers started using Zouk music from the Caribbean, creating a fusion known as Lambazouk. Over time, the dance evolved, with smoother movements, more body expression, and a wider variety of music styles. This evolution led to what is now called Brazilian Zouk.

Brazilian Zouk is known for its flowing steps, body isolations, and unique head movements. It allows for close connection between partners while also giving dancers the freedom to interpret the music creatively. Today, Brazilian Zouk is danced worldwide to many types of music, including pop, R&B, electronic, and Latin beats. The dance continues to grow, with a thriving community in the Netherlands and beyond.

As of 2019, two of the most popular branches of Zouk are Brazilian Zouk (Rio) and Lambazouk. Lately Lambazouk has been using the name Lambada again. Several styles of Zouk have evolved, and the dances continue to evolve as Zouk gains popularity around the world. 

• Lambada (or Zouk lambada, or Lambazouk, or Porto Seguro style) has the closest connection to the original Lambada. Lambada is danced to Caribbean Zouk music, which has a steady beat and higher energy.
  
  

• Brazilian Zouk (or Rio-style Zouk) evolved to be danced to a wider range of music, including pop, R&B, electronic, and Latin beats, allowing for more versatility.