Latin Music

Not long ago, understanding salsa meant visiting the local grocery store and browsing the Hispanic food aisle. Today, however, with the emergence of shows such as Dancing with the Stars, dance aficionados and couch potatoes alike are embracing latin music and the salsa dance that naturally follows. Whether you’re interested in learning more about latin dancing and the latin music that accompanies it—or just enjoy the tropical beat of spanish music—understanding the different characteristics of these hot styles will ensure that you are an aficionado of all things latin.

Sure, to our foreign ears, spanish and latin music can sound almost exactly the same. In a lot of ways, also, they are similar. However, each type of music carries with it a unique style, origin, and flavor. Despite this, one cannot ignore the impact that the arrival of the Spanish had on the stylistic sound of latin music. As a result, latin music draws a lot of influence from traditional spanish style. Are you wrong to use the terms “spanish music” and “latin music” interchangeable? Technically, yes. Spanish music may have influenced the emergence of latin music, but it carries its own styles and sounds marked by specific regions of Spain and Europe. So, while you may confuse the music store clerk by asking for spanish music when you really mean latin, you won’t be chased out. Just prepare to be confused if you do.

As mentioned earlier, spanish sound contributes a lot to the overall sound of latin music. However, what makes this style of music so unique is the combination of a multitude of different sounds from different countries. Although there are some controversial stances on the origins and flavors of latin music, the general co census is that its style is made up of a combination of spanish, African, European, and local Latin American sounds.

Today, latin music is popular all over the world, particularly in its homeland—Central and Southern America, Mexico, and Cuba. However, even countries such as Japan have now embraced this contagious style.

Based on a spanish music style (decima), in which there are ten lines with eight syllables each, latin music also relies heavily on African polyrhythms. These are the beats that give latin music its unique style. However, polyrhythms alone don’t make this unique sound alone.

While spanish music may be the origin of latin music, they are different. Both draw elements from African styles, however, it is the addition of European style that adds the final unique ingredient to latin music. Today, there are literally hundreds of styles of latin music, with each spanish-speaking country adding its own flair and interpretation of this style.

While salsa music is on the most popular interpretations of latin style, it is far from being the only one. With latin tunes pervading so many corners of the globe for such a long period, it is only natural that different regions have adapted different facets of its style to their own local. Interested in sampling a few different styles? Consider these:

Bossa nova. Don’t blame the bossa nova—blame the Brazilians for this energetic style that has gained its own international popularity. Based on the traditional samba, this music is less percussive than typical latin music, but much more intriguing (and complex) lyrically. Drums and percussion are not part of bossa nova, but guitar, piano, and vocals are integral. Typically, the guitar provides the beat to this style of music, creating a gentle rhythm. Those fond of latin style—but not of pounding drums or continuous percussion—will like the bossa nova.

Tango. As one of the most recognizable sounds (and dances) in the world, tango music and dance was one of the first popular latin styles to gain fame worldwide. Tango music is typically played with a specific set of instruments, including two bandoneons, two violins, one double bass, and a piano. However, the clarinet, flute, and guitar were used in its earlier forms, and are still used today. Looking for a latin music style that incorporates a variety of instruments? This one may be for you.

Latin jazz. Do you like the calming coolness of jazz, but long for long for a spicier flavor? This traditionally Cuban style may be for you. Utilizing Latin American and African rhythms, this style of music incorporates US, European, Latin American, and Caribbean harmonies. Unlike American jazz, Latin jazz does not implement a backbeat, and follows a straight rhythm rather than a swung rhythm. This style of latin music utilizes the conga, claves, timbale, and guiro for percussion, and can be played in small groups or large orchestra-style formats.

Tejano. Created by Mexican descendants living in southern Texas, this latin music follows a polka beat utilizing three different types of bands: orchestra, modern, and conjunto. While the orchestra band relies heavily on its bass section, the conjunto is known for its accordion use, and the modern band utilizes a synthesizer and other modern technology.

There are many, many more types of latin music around the world. Listing them would be impossible. Listening to them all would be even more improbable. However, learning some of the characteristics of the different styles and sounds will ensure that you choose a style that pleases your taste.

Currently, one of the most popular and recognizable styles of latin music is salsa music. Understanding salsa means understanding the dance and the music—as the two are almost inextricably tied together. Salsa dancing is a type of dance that typically is accompanied by salsa music—a latin music style popularized by Cuban and Puerto Rican immigrants in New York City. Salsa music, however, is now so popular across Latin America that it is often what comes to mind when the term “latin music” is mentioned—despite its North American origin.

While salsa music is latin, not all latin music is salsa. In addition, please keep in mind that salsa is not spanish music. Therefore, when shopping for music to accompany your dance—or for a salsa party—make sure to purchase the appropriate style. Bear in mind, however, that not all people consider salsa to be a true genre of music, and often claim that it is just a marketing ploy to “repackage” Afro-Cuban music. Be that as it may, salsa music does have its own unique rhythm. For example, Merengue music—also a latin music style—is a fast-paced style which guides dancers in a tight two-step style. With that said, also bear in mind that “Traditional” latin music serves as the springboard for modern salsa, and therefore it may be possible to find some artists that play music acceptable for salsa dancing.

Typically, this salsa dancing is practiced with a partner, although lone dancers are not unheard of or necessarily inappropriate. Unlike many other ballroom dances, this dance does not require dancers to “travel” across the dance floor, leaving to dance in one area of the dance floor.

There are many types of salsa, including: Cuban-style, Columbian-style, Los Angeles-style, Eddie Torres-style, and many others. However, the basic movement in all different styles includes stepping in unison with groupings of a four-beat rhythm. For example, salsa and latin music are typically divided into two sets of a four-beat rhythm, often being broken into the sequence 1,2,3,4 and then 5,6,7,8. Dancers typically step in forward (beginning with the right foot) unison to beats 1,2, and 3, and then pause or tap a foot on step 4. They begin stepping backwards on beats 5,6, and 7, taking a break (or tapping again) on beat 8, and starting with the left foot—as opposed to the right foot they began the sequence with.

Those looking to begin this as a new style of dance, asking a dance instructor for music recommendations is probably the best way to choose music that is appropriate for your dancing skill level. Otherwise, browsing the salsa section of the local music store can produce good results, provided you ask a knowledgeable salesperson for advice. Remember, a novice dancer will need slower, simpler music to dance to. Conversely, a more experienced dance may be able to take on faster-paced music with different riffs to challenge their expertise. Choosing the music right for your skill level will guard against frustration and prevent boredom—and there are many from which to choose.

Cumbia, Timbia, Mambo, Boogaloo, and Rumba are all examples of different types. Each differs in its origin, beat, and combination of percussion and music. Son, a type of latin music often mentioned with salsa, is a Cuban music that initially combined African rhythm with Spanish canciones. It is known as the origin of salsa, and is often mentioned as one in the same.

Whether your goal is to simply gain an appreciation for the salsa sound—or to find the perfect sound track to your dance moves—finding a style of music that you like is easy if you have a basic understanding of latin music and the different types of salsa.

While many people erroneously refer to latin music as spanish music, the two are not the same. Just like most people think of latin music when they hear salsa, most people who hear flamenco music instantly recognize it as spanish. While flamenco is one of the most popular spanish styles, it is only one. Today, spanish music encompasses many different, styles, sounds and rythms. As a result, there is no one recognizable style that encompasses all spanish music.

What makes spanish music, then? With so many influences, including Germanic, Jewish, Arab, African, and Greek, spanish music is truly an amalgamation of different musical heritages defined by different locales and regions. Therefore, it is virtually impossible to peg one type of music as being inherently spanish.

With spanish music covering so many regions, centuries, and ethnic groups, spanish music encompasses so many styles that traditional and modern music lovers alike are guaranteed to find something to their liking. Just a few types of spanish music are:

Spanish pop. When most people think of spanish pop, crossover Spanish heartthrobs come to mind (think open shirts, sharp suits, and undeniable smooth voices singing romantic ballads). Just like pop music from other regions of the world, spanish pop combines the flavors of a whole region for a sound that appeals to the masses—particularly younger generations.

Ye Ye. A type of spanish pop, this up tempo spanish music is known for fusing French and American pop sounds with the traditional spanish “vibe.” With flamenco rhythm and a darker, passionate feel, this type of music ironically often carries more of a spanish feel to it than other pop sounds.

Jota. With roots in Aragon, Jota is popular across Spain and carries a percussive sound similar to that of North Africa. For those who appreciate instrumental complexity, jota is a good choice. Utilizing castanets, tambourines, and flutes, jota definitely has a spanish flair found nowhere else in the world.

Perhaps the music style most linked to spanish music is flamenco. Like the latin salsa, though, it is virtually impossible to separate the dance from the music, as the two are forever intertwined. With elaborate costumes, the dance often takes front stage, with the music serving as a dramatic backdrop. Currently, there are over 50 styles—or “palos”—of flamenco, with each one utilizing its own unique combinations of beats, lyrics, and harmonies. Understanding each of these styles can be frustrating, if not overwhelming, for the average music lover, as the differences are often confusing. However, the basic style of flamenco dance and music is somewhat straightforward.

Typically, flamenco dance and music occur concurrently in two different types of settings: informal and professional concert. In both, however, the flamenco dancer is noticeable by her ruffled, elaborate dress, and typically wears a large red flower over one ear. Known as a traditional dance, flamenco was routinely performed by gypsies, although now is performed mostly by professional or regional folk dancers.

In the informal setting, or juerga, dancers and musicians meet in a spontaneous environment that welcomes anyone around to join in. Hand clapping, violin, and pounding out rhythms on orange crates are quite common in this type of setting, and are what provides this spanish music with its energetic and recognizable flair. In addition singers are important to this type of flamenco, and often derive their tone from the mood of the audience and other participants.

In the professional concert setting, flamenco performers perform in a more formal and organized manner. The guitar is almost always the lone instrument, although it is acceptable sometimes for other instruments to join in. No matter what other instruments are involved, however, the guitar always is the focal point of the musical sound. In addition, it is not uncommon for other guitars to serve as a backdrop for the main performing guitar. Dancers are not the main focal point, and follow only after the guitar, with singers being added last. This formal style is more subdued, but just as passionate as its informal cousin, and offers those more interested in music—rather than flam bounce—the ability to hone in on intricate guitar riffs.

Although different in styles, one thing is for sure, latin and spanish music have taken their shared heritage and transformed into styles that define regions, cultures, and eras. In addition, spanish and latin dancing have infected performers worldwide, spawning even more spinoffs—such as salsa dancing—to emerge in locations far from their original origins.

Whether your musical tastes lean toward the classical, popular, folksy, or upbeat styles, both spanish music and latin music offer something for everyone. Those looking to strut their stuff on the dance floor may find salsa music and dance impossible to pass up. Even those who enjoy modern American jazz will find something to suit their senses with latin jazz.

Which type of music should you choose? Well, that depends on your personal tastes. However, taking time to learn about the differences and similarities between spanish music and latin music will help you in deciding exactly what your taste is—and what type of music you should choose to placate it. With a history deeply imbedded in cultures across the globe, one thing is for sure: No matter what type of music you choose, spanish and latin music, as well as spanish and latin dance, are here to stay.

With popular culture now embracing the dances, customs, and sounds of these dance and music styles, finding a style you like is easier than ever before. Taking time to know what you’re listening to, however, is one way to make sure that—no matter which type of music you choose—you walk out of the store with the right kind of salsa. After all, choosing salsa isn’t just about finding the right jar anymore.