Carnegie Hall

As we celebrate the Nuestros sonidos (Our Sounds) festival and the richness of Latin culture, we turn our attention to the vibrant musical landscape that has emerged from this heritage. Latin music is as diverse as the cultures that make up Latin America, blending influences from Indigenous, African, and European traditions to create a rich tapestry of sound.

From the streets of Havana to the barrios of New York, Latin music has evolved into a wide array of genres, each with its own unique rhythm, style, and cultural significance. This glossary serves as an introduction to key genres that have shaped the Latin music landscape and continue to inspire artists and audiences around the world.

Bachata

Bachata features romantic and often bittersweet lyrics, with a distinctive guitar-based sound that includes the use of requinto and bongos. It originated in the Dominican Republic in the early 20th century, initially as a marginalized genre associated with lower socioeconomic classes. It evolved over time and is now internationally recognized, particularly for its strong connection to dance.

Bachata is a close, intimate style of dance, with dancers maintaining a four-step rhythm. The basic step involves side-to-side movements, with a distinctive hip “pop” on the fourth beat. Notable artists of bachata music include Juan Luis Guerra, Aventura, Romeo Santos, and Prince Royce.

Bolero

Bolero is a slow and soulful genre that originated in Cuba in the late 19th century and quickly spread across Latin America, becoming the genre of choice for romantic ballads. Known for its deeply emotional and expressive qualities, bolero lyrics often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and longing. The music is characterized by smooth, melodic guitar playing, lush orchestration, and a slow tempo that lends itself to intimate, passionate performances. The accompanying dance style features graceful, flowing movements, typically performed by couples in a close embrace.

Notable artists—including Armando Manzanero, Luis Miguel, and Los Panchos—have left their mark on the bolero tradition, elevating it to international recognition. On June 1, 1989, legendary Cuban band Sonora Matancera celebrated its 65th anniversary with a special concert at Carnegie Hall—which also marked its seventh appearance at the Hall since its 1963 debut.

Bossa Nova

Bossa nova is characterized by its smooth, syncopated rhythms, gentle melodies, and complex harmonies. The lyrics often focus on themes of love, nature, and the Brazilian lifestyle. Emerging in Brazil in the late 1950s, bossa nova blends samba rhythms with jazz harmonies and was popularized globally through the work of artists like João Gilberto, Antônio Carlos Jobim, and Sérgio Mendes.

On November 21, 1962, these three musicians made their debuts at Carnegie Hall in what is widely regarded as the first bossa nova concert in the United States. Joined by 27 other artists, the concert became one of the most famous performances and live albums in Carnegie Hall’s history.

Cha-Cha-Cha

Cha-cha-cha is a lively Cuban dance music genre that originated in the early 1950s, created by violinist and composer Enrique Jorrín. The genre quickly became a popular choice in ballroom dancing due to its catchy and easy-to-follow rhythm. Known for its distinct syncopated beat, the music features a steady rhythm that dancers emphasize with the sound “cha-cha-cha.” This rhythmic pattern makes it accessible for dancers of all skill levels, contributing to its wide appeal.

With its roots in Cuban danzón and mambo, cha-cha-cha has been popularized by artists like Tito Puente, Enrique Jorrín, and Orquesta Aragón. On February 20, 1954, Gilberto Valdés graced the Carnegie Hall stage at the peak of the mambo craze. He was joined by Puente and Arsenio Rodríguez, and they introduced the audience to the cha-cha-cha, which was invented a year prior by Jorrín.

Choro

Choro, one of the oldest Brazilian music genres, originated in the 19th century in Rio de Janeiro and is known as the precursor to samba and bossa nova. It is instrumental and often involves virtuosic performances, characterized by upbeat tempos and complex melodic lines. Notable artists of choro are Pixinguinha, Jacob do Bandolim, and Waldir Azevedo.

Corridos

Corridos originated in Mexico during the 19th century as narrative ballads that told stories of historical events, heroes, and everyday struggles. The genre is recognized for its storytelling traditions, often highlighting bravery, love, and tragedy, accompanied by guitars, accordions, and brass instruments. Modern corridos, known as narcocorridos, focus on themes of drug trafficking and the lives of outlaws. Los Tigres del Norte and Los Tucanes de Tijuana are among the most notable artists in this genre.

Cumbia

Cumbia began as a folk dance in Colombia’s Caribbean coastal region and has since spread across Latin America, evolving into various regional styles. Known for its rhythmic cadence, cumbia blends African drum patterns, Indigenous flutes, and Spanish guitar melodies. Artists like La Sonora Dinamita, Los Ángeles Azules, and Selena have brought cumbia to international prominence.

In 2018, Natalia Lafourcade collaborated with Los Ángeles Azules to release a cumbia version of her hit song “Nunca Es Suficiente.” The cumbia rendition gained massive commercial success and became a standout modern cumbia track. As part of the Nuestros sonidos festival, Lafourcade performs alongside Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic on October 10, 2024, at Carnegie Hall.

Danzón

Danzón, which originated in Cuba in the late 19th century, is recognized as the country’s official musical genre and dance. Known for its elegant and formal structure, danzón blends both composed and improvised sections, and often features the flute, violin, piano, and percussion. Miguel Faílde is considered the founder of danzón. Orquesta Aragón, one of the leading danzón groups, performed at Carnegie Hall alongside Rubén Blades on June 29, 2002.

Danzonete

Danzonete originated in Cuba in the 1920s as a vocal variation of danzón, blending its instrumental elements with influences from the Spanish pasodoble. This genre introduced a vocal section to the danzón structure, adding both dramatic and lively elements to the music. Danzonete often features flute, violin, piano, and percussion, while maintaining a strong focus on danceable rhythms.

Antonio María Romeu, one of the genre’s pioneers, is credited with popularizing danzonete, while singers like Paulina Álvrez helped to define its vocal style. The genre continues to evolve, reaching global audiences through performances like that of virtuoso pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba—who performed during Carnegie Hall’s Voices from Latin America festival in 2012—and Cuban vocalist Aymée Nuviola, who recorded a captivating rendition of “Rompiendo la Rutina” with Rubalcaba.

Dembow

Dembow originated in Jamaica in the late 1980s and early 1990s, evolving from the genre of dancehall music. It was later adapted by Dominican and Puerto Rican artists, transforming into a foundational rhythm that underpins much of modern reggaeton. Defined by its repetitive, syncopated rhythm, the dembow beat is fast-paced and highly danceable, typically accompanied by electronic sounds and catchy melodies. Over time, it has become a genre in its own right, thriving in the urban music scenes of the Caribbean and beyond. Notable artists like El Alfa and Lírico en la Casa have helped popularize dembow on the global stage, elevating it as a crucial part of Latin urban music.

Guaracha

Guaracha originated in Cuba in the early 20th century as a lively form of social and dance music. It first gained popularity in Cuban theater and cabaret settings, known for its fast-paced, energetic rhythms and satirical or humorous lyrics. Typically performed by small ensembles that feature instruments like guitars, maracas, and bongos, guaracha is both entertaining and highly danceable. Its upbeat nature and vibrant sound have kept it relevant over the decades.

Notable artists who helped popularize the genre include Celia Cruz, whose dynamic voice brought guaracha to international fame, as well as Arsenio Rodríguez and Ñico Saquito. Cruz made her debut at Carnegie Hall in 1963 and went on to perform at the Hall 11 more times—alongside musicians who included Tito Puente, Paquito D’Rivera, and Arturo Sandoval—before her final appearance on November 13, 2000.

Huayno

Huayno has its roots in the Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia, where it has been a traditional form of music for centuries. Known for its emotional and high-pitched vocals, which can be performed by either a soloist or group, huayno captures the spirit of the Andean people. The genre often utilizes traditional Andean instruments such as the charango (a small stringed instrument) and the quena (a type of flute).

Huayno’s lyrics typically revolve around themes of love, hardship, and the natural beauty of the Andean landscapes, resonating deeply with the experiences of rural life. Notable artists like Los Kjarkas have helped bring huayno to international audiences, while Peruvian singer Dina Páucar remains one of the most iconic contemporary performers of the genre.

Latin Jazz

Latin jazz emerged in the United States during the 1940s and ’50s, blending Afro-Cuban rhythms like mambo and cha-cha-cha with jazz harmonies and improvisation. Known for its complex rhythms, brass arrangements, and vibrant percussion, the genre offers both energetic dance beats and deep musical exploration.

Latin jazz icons like Tito Puente, Chucho Valdés, and Arturo Sandoval have brought their unique interpretations to Carnegie Hall’s storied stages. The genre continues to shine at the Hall, with Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra performing on April 11, 2025 as part of the Nuestros sonidos festival.

Mambo

Mambo originated in Cuba during the 1930s and ’40s, and quickly gained international fame—especially in the United States—through the performances of artists like Pérez Prado and Tito Puente. Known for its energetic, fast-paced rhythms, mambo combines Afro-Cuban beats with big band instrumentation, featuring prominent brass and woodwind sections, piano, bass, and percussion. The genre became a sensation in dance halls across the US.

Mambo made a historic appearance at Carnegie Hall on February 20, 1954, when Gilberto Valdés, alongside Tito Puente and Arsenio Rodríguez, introduced the genre to the prestigious stage during the peak of the mambo craze.

Mariachi

Mariachi originated in Jalisco, Mexico, in the 19th century and became a symbol of Mexican national pride. Traditionally performed at weddings and festivals, mariachi is known for its lively blend of guitars, vihuelas, violins, trumpets, and elaborate vocal harmonies. Songs often express themes of love, celebration, and patriotism, with musicians dressed in traditional charro outfits. At Carnegie Hall, mariachi continues to be celebrated with events like Viva El Mariachi! Homenaje a la Música Mexicana!, which took place on June 18, 2024.

Merengue

Merengue, which originated in the Dominican Republic in the early 20th century, quickly became the country’s national dance and music genre. Known for its fast-paced, lively rhythm, merengue is played in a 2/4 time signature and prominently features instruments like the accordion, tambora, and güira. This genre’s upbeat tempo makes it a favorite for dancing, characterized by quick footwork and tight, spinning movements between partners. Merengue has been popularized by notable artists who include Juan Luis Guerra, Johnny Ventura, Olga Tañón, and Elvis Crespo.

Música Llanera

Música llanera, or “plains music,” originates from the vast plains of Venezuela and Colombia, where it serves as the folk music of the region’s cowboys, or llaneros. This genre reflects rural life, celebrating the landscape, love, and the daily experiences of the llaneros. Characterized by its use of traditional instruments like the harp, cuatro (a four-stringed instrument), and maracas, the music’s fast, rhythmic patterns often mirror the gallop of horses across the plains. Notable artists Simón Díaz and Reynaldo Armas have become iconic figures in música llanera.

Música Mexicana (Ranchera, Norteño, Banda)

Música Mexicana encompasses a broad range of regional styles, each with its own unique sound and deep cultural roots. Ranchera, one of the most popular forms, often explores themes of love, patriotism, and nature, and is typically performed by mariachi bands that include guitars, trumpets, and violins. Norteño and banda music—other significant genres within música Mexicana—feature the accordion, bajo sexto, and brass instruments, creating a lively, polka-like rhythm that resonates in Mexican culture.

Notable artists of the genre include Vicente Fernández, known for his powerful renditions of rancheras; Los Tigres del Norte, who have popularized norteño music; and Banda El Recodo, one of the most influential banda groups in Mexico. Carnegie Hall also celebrated during Viva El Mariachi! Homenaje a la Música Mexicana on June 18, 2024.

Reggaeton

Reggaeton originated in Panama in the late 1980s and gained popularity in Puerto Rico during the 1990s. Blending reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop, the genre is known for its signature dembow rhythm, urban-themed lyrics, and catchy beats driven by electronic instrumentation.

Iconic artists like Daddy Yankee, Bad Bunny, and Ivy Queen have been instrumental in making reggaeton a global phenomenon. The “Queen of Reggaeton,” Ivy Queen, makes her highly anticipated Carnegie Hall debut on November 20, 2024, as part of the Nuestros sonidos festival.

Salsa

Salsa emerged in the 1960s and ’70s—primarily in New York—where it became the musical heartbeat of the city’s growing Puerto Rican community. Rooted in the Cuban son, salsa incorporated jazz influences and elements of Afro-Caribbean rhythms, creating a vibrant and dynamic sound. The genre is known for its rhythmic complexity and energetic brass sections, blending congas, bongos, and timbales with powerful brass and piano montunos. Fast-paced and highly danceable, salsa became a cultural force that extended far beyond its Latin roots.

Over the years, Carnegie Hall has welcomed salsa legends Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, and the Fania All-Stars, celebrating the genre’s impact on Latin and global music. One of the standout performances in recent years was by Gilberto Santa Rosa, known as “El Caballero de la Salsa.” On March 23, 1995, Santa Rosa headlined at Carnegie Hall, a performance that was later immortalized in his live album En Vivo Desde El Carnegie Hall.

Samba

Samba originated in the early 20th century in Rio de Janeiro’s Afro-Brazilian communities and is deeply tied to Brazilian Carnival. Known for its syncopated rhythm and lively instrumentation—featuring the cavaquinho, tamborim, and other percussion—samba is as much about dance as it is about music. Its vibrant, energetic beats invite movement and celebration.

Samba’s global recognition was further bolstered by the 1962 Carnegie Hall concert featuring Antônio Carlos Jobim and João Gilberto. Although primarily associated with bossa nova, the concert incorporated samba rhythms, highlighting samba’s influence on the world stage.

Son Cubano

Son cubano originated in the late 19th century in eastern Cuba and became a foundational genre for many Latin music styles, including salsa and mambo. The genre is known for its fusion of African rhythms and Spanish guitar traditions, driven by the clave rhythm and the use of instruments like the tres guitar, maracas, bongos, and trumpets. A hallmark of son cubano is its call-and-response vocal patterns, often highlighting themes of love and life in Cuba.

Buena Vista Social Club’s performance at Carnegie Hall in 1998—immortalized in a famous documentary—stands as a significant moment in the genre’s history, introducing global audiences to the beauty and richness of son cubano.

Tango

Tango originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Montevideo, Uruguay. Known for its dramatic and passionate expression, tango reflects urban life and the emotional experiences of love, loss, and nostalgia. The music often features the bandoneón (a type of accordion), violin, piano, and double bass, creating a melancholic yet sensual sound that complements its elegant dance style.

Astor Piazzolla, who revolutionized tango with his avant-garde compositions, performed at Carnegie Hall in 1976, marking a significant moment for tango’s international recognition and influence.

Timba

Timba originated in Cuba during the 1980s and ’90s as an evolved and more intense form of salsa. It stands out for its bold improvisation and incorporation of other musical genres such as funk, jazz, and rock. Timba’s aggressive rhythms, complex arrangements, and unique ability to blend multiple genres within a single piece give it a dynamic, high-energy feel. Often seen as a fusion of Cuban music and modern sounds, timba reflects the cultural and musical experimentation of Cuba during this period. One of the most famous timba bands is Los Van Van, widely regarded as pioneers of the genre.

Trap Latino

Trap Latino emerged in the mid-2010s, blending the Southern US trap music—characterized by its heavy 808 bass, hi-hats, and dark themes—with reggaeton rhythms. This fusion quickly gained traction, particularly in Puerto Rico and across Latin America, where it resonated with young audiences looking for a raw and urban sound.

Trap Latino is marked by its hard-hitting beats, booming basslines, and lyrics that often explore street life, fame, and love. It combines the gritty realism of trap with Latin influences, giving the genre a distinct flavor that speaks to urban Latino experiences. Bad Bunny, one of the genre’s most influential figures, helped propel trap Latino into mainstream success, pushing boundaries with his genre-bending style and socially conscious lyrics.

Vallenato

Vallenato originated from Colombia’s Caribbean coast—particularly in the Valledupar region—during the early 20th century. It combines African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences, with lyrics that often recount stories of love, folklore, and daily life. This genre features distinctive instruments such as the accordion, the caja (a small drum), and the guacharaca (a scraping instrument).

Prominent artists like Carlos Vives, Jorge Celedón, and Diomedes Díaz have been instrumental in bringing vallenato to international audiences. In 2020, Gregorio Uribe’s performance at Carnegie Hall (part of a Musical Explorers concert) introduced schoolchildren to traditional Colombian genres, including vallenato.

Photography: Lafourcade by Lawrence Sumulong.