Zouk is a style of music that holds a special place in my family. It connects my dad’s French Guianese roots to me and my siblings. Growing up, my dad would play zouk at all sorts of moments like cleaning the house, in the car, or just to brighten the mood. I remember one time my mom filmed him dancing with my three-month-old brother, while my sister and I danced right behind him. Memories like that always make me think of happy times and laughter while listening to zouk.
This music, in particular, always makes me think of my dad and how lively he becomes when he hears it. Hearing his stories about his parents playing it for him makes me feel closer to him because I get to experience what he once felt. He’s told me that when he was young, zouk was a staple at any party or gathering. Without fail his uncles and aunts would play it, teaching the kids how to dance to the songs. For my dad, the music is a time that brings back the joy and warmth of those family celebrations. Even now, on long car rides, my dad blasts his favorite zouk artists, and my siblings and I sometimes sing along to the songs we know, adding to the memories I hope to share with my own children one day.

– ISJ

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant