What type of music do cubans listen to?

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Cuban culture is the meeting of various cultures and customs, including that of its indigenous inhabitants, Spanish settlers and African slaves. Its diversity and political history has led to many different styles of Cuban music.

History

Much of the music of Cuba is the result of African and European fusion, according to Cuban folklorist Fernando Ortiz. African slaves and Spanish settlers brought their musical traditions with them and the two styles merged into Creole music.

Types

The music of Cuba is diverse. Among its many styles are zapateo (a flamenco-derived folk-dance), bolero (a slow, romantic ballad), the conga, rumba, mambo and many more styles associated with dance.

Afro-Cuban

Music like the conga and the rumba are "more African than Spanish," according to National Geographic. These are often described as Afro-Cuban, to highlight the heavy African contribution to the music.

Cuban Revolution

The Cuban Revolution of 1959 had an impact on popular music in Cuba. Many musicians moved to Puerto Rico and New York, many venues were closed as copyright law was abolished and there was more of a focus on "serious," classical music.

Hip-Hop

The collapse of the Soviet Union damaged Cuba's economy and lead to massive poverty. Hip-hop groups emerged as a form of protest. Met with criticism at first, the Cuban government eventually recognized Cuban hip-hop as "an authentic expression of Cuban Culture."

Source:

National Geographic: Afro-Cuban Music

Mamborama: Cuban Music 101

Cubano Be, Cubano Bop: One Hundred Years of Jazz in Cuba; Leonardo Acosta; 2003

More Information:

AfroCubaWeb: Music

Tima: Cuban Music Home

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