Sunday, June 5, 2011

Latin Music In The United States

By Veronica Mendez


Wherever you go in the country, you can bet that someone there is a fan of Latin Music. Even if you say that you prefer rock and roll or double-step, all of these genres have all been affected by the Hispanic music of the previous century. It's not just the cultural songs and dances of South America that can be called Latin Music, but many of the different sub-genres that have evolved in many cities all throughout the United Sates.

In fact, many of the earliest forms of American tunes paid homage to the Spanish population and their cultures. The forefather of the modern jazz movement as well as rhythm and blues had their beginnings with the beats they borrowed from the popular sound. Within a few years, it wasn't uncommon to find another percussionist on the band that played the maracas.

In the early part of the last century, the tango from Argentina became immensely popular not only in the country but all around the world. The tango influence made its way into many popular songs, albeit with a few differences. The amalgamation was very evident in the movies of that time were song popular singers would have a song done in the Argentine style.

Up to the nineteen forties, it was common for many orchestras to have a big band as well as a few of these players. This wasn't just a fad but something that became in big demand by the dancers. During this time, many of the dances that are now common were introduced. The rumba, mambo, samba and even paso doble were first danced in large groups here. Even the conga was a fun diversion that spread throughout all of the dance halls. In the nineteen fifties, rhythm and blues and the beginnings of rock and roll dominated the airwaves. This didn't stop the Hispanic influence though. In fact, the so called Spanish tinge contributed to the popularity of many songs. Today, these influences are heard in many forms. While the popular dance styles can still be found in their pure form, there are also many artists that have broken through many mainstream genres to create a Latin fusion. From rock and roll to ballads, the syncopated beat is heard in almost all of the US cities.

In the middle of the last century, rock and roll was just starting to rise, but that didn't stop the Spanish tinge from still hitting the airwaves. Some of the rock songs then also had some Spanish influences. Today, a number of top artists owe their success to their Spanish roots. Indeed, they have subtly included these type of tunes into many of their songs while still making them accessible to most people. Don't be surprised to find Latin Music still very much alive today. It might not be in the form that you expect, but that beat is unmistakable.




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