Bachata, from the Dominican Republic, is a romantic and sexy dance. Bachata was created and primarily used by servants, who played it when they got off of work. In the Dominican Republic, most citizens agree that ‘Bachata’ means a party. Others say bachata is derived from the Italian Ballata, which was a popular form of music in Italy centuries ago.
Bachata grew out of bolero, and over time, it has been influenced by merengue. The music is played in 4/4.

The basic footwork is a series of simple steps that produce a back and forth or sideways motion, with the bodies very close together, and it is then built upon with sensual hip movements and kicks or leg lifts rather like in Tango.