Semba was popularized in the 1950s and is a style of music and dancing that is the main influence behind other genres that have originated from the West African nation such as kizomba. Semba was strongly influenced by the cultural traditions of the Bantu and African rhythms such as kazukuta and kabetule. Semba songs are traditionally sung in Kimbundu, a Bantu language widely spoken in north Angola. The subject matter of semba songs usually focuses on social events and activities, day-to-day life and, before independence in 1975, the freedom of Angola. The dance is fun, fast paced and known for its sensual nature.