Latin American music is a rich and diverse genre that unites millions of people across borders. The different genres of Latin American music guarantee that there is a style of music that suits every listener.
Latin American music dates back to European colonization, when the Spanish and Portuguese effectively used music to Christianize the natives, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica. Europeans built massive churches across the American continent in cities that would eventually become nations’ capitals and major cities. It was at these cathedrals that Europeans would use song and music to convert the Natives and enslaved Africans to Christianity. Because many cultures in the Americas already included musical elements as a big part of religion, this method was particularly effective.
Slowly, Europeans introduced opera, concert halls, and national music institutions that helped music develop across the continent. After the independence movements across Latin America, each region developed its own culture. Many countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico found pride in their own national musical identities.
Listed below are seven of the most famous genres of music from every corner of the Americas, and a song recommendation to introduce you to the genre:
SALSA: Originating in the Caribbean and New York, Salsa is an upbeat and groovy genre that distinctively uses a beat called a “clave,” two wooden instruments used to create a rhythmic pattern. It emerged in the 40s and 50s and was popularized by artists such as Tito Puente and Celia Cruz. Song: “Ale Ale” by Marc Anthony
MERENGUE: From the Dominican Republic, this upbeat genre commonly uses an accordion, a hand drum, and a metal tube called a “charrasca.” It was shunned by the nation’s elite class until Rafael Leonidas Trujillo rose to power and promoted the genre, making it a part of the country’s national pride. Song: “Tiburon” by Proyecto Uno
RANCHERA: A staple of Mexican music, this genre relies heavily on stringed instruments such as the guitar, violin and accordion. It emerged as an element of national pride after the Mexican Revolution and was promoted by the federal government through popular movies and television to give Mexicans a unified identity after the war. Composer Jose Alfredo Jimenez and singer Vicente Fernandez are hailed as icons of the genre. Song: “El Rey” by Vicente Fernández
CUMBIA: This Colombian genre of music dates back to the colonial era, when enslaved Africans would play simple rhythms for the other slaves. Later, European elites would incorporate more instruments and popularize the genre. Despite its tragic origins, cumbia originated as a courtship ritual and commonly talks about love and the celebration of life. Song: “Como Te Voy A Olvidar” by Los Angeles Azules
BOSSA NOVA: From Brazil, this genre is a jazzy style of music with soft, romantic vocals and classical guitar tones. It stems from the Afro-Brazilian Samba, an upbeat Brazilian carnival genre. Bossa Nova entered Brazilian culture in the 1960s and quickly became a staple. Song: “The Girl from Ipanema” by Stan Getz
TANGO: Traced back to Argentina and Uruguay, this genre of music is played with an accordion called a “bandoneon.” Its lyrics can be philosophical and profound, but the music can also be strictly instrumental. It was originally played in ballroom dances until Argentine composer Carlos Gardel popularized the genre. Song: “Por Una Cabeza” by Carlos Gardel
REGGAETON: From Central America, the genre is characterized by loud drums and a repeating beat. In the 1980s, musicians began recording Spanish versions of reggae songs and soon after, artists began making their own songs combining reggae with hip-hop. In the 21st century, the genre gained popularity across the world.Song: “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee