By Sara García

The salsa genre is a dance musical style that fuses Afro-Caribbean rhythms with influences from jazz, rock and Cuban music, among others. It emerged in the 1960s and was consolidated in the 70s, especially in New York, where Caribbean immigrants, mainly from Cuba and Puerto Rico, shaped this style. Below, an example of salsa music:

Main Features

* Rhythm and Percussion: Salsa is highlighted by syncopated rhythms and a powerful rhythm section that includes instruments such as congas, timbales, bongos and mackerel.

* Brass Section: Trumpets, trombones and saxophones contribute to the characteristic and energetic sound of salsa.

* Improvisation and Dynamism: The compositions are usually dynamic, allowing instrumental solos and rhythmic changes that invite dancing.

* ⁠Lyrics and Themes: Lyrics can address everything from love and partying to social and everyday themes, reflecting the life and culture of Latin communities.

Oringins and Influences

* Cuban and Caribbean Roots:

Salsa takes elements from traditional genres such as son, mambo and guaguancó.

* Evolution in New York:

Different musical traditions mixed in New York City, allowing the creation of a unique sound that became known and popularized as "salsa."

* Emblematic Artists:

Figures such as Celia Cruz, Héctor Lavoe, Marc Anthony, Willie Colón and Rubén Blades have been fundamental in its development and expansion worldwide.