Social Rumba Songs at Amazon Mp3

  Social Rumba Music: Rumba music formed when Africans were brought to Cuba as slaves, leading to a unique fusion of Cuban and African rhythms. The word rumba derives from a Cuba Spanish word rumbo, meaning “party” or “spree.” Though the word has largely come to reflect the music and dance style of the modern rumba, the old use of the word is still popular in Colombia. “Ir de rumba” means “to go out at night.”

Described by many as folkloric, culture is a huge part of rumba's history. With music and lyrics reminiscent of storytelling, rumba provides the soundtrack for much of Cuban-African history. Much of the rhythms associated with rumba are of African origin, but much of the musical framework are traditionally Spanish. Rumba music derives it's melodies and patterns from Spanish seguidillas, copla, peterneras, and so on.

American rumba music is typically played in 2/4 or 4/4 time. The rhythm is computed in counts of four. Rumba instruments can vary, but percussion is a must. Hand percussion, with maracas, claves, or even simple hand claps are major focal points. Brass instruments like trumpets provide rumba music with that extra sense of excitement. The conga drum is another key instrument for rumba music. Spanish guitar, flute, and piano are often used, too, but are not associated with traditional rumba style.

Popularized in the 1920s Havana nightclubs, white patrons and tourists loved the frilly costumes and flirty rhythms of the rumba. Many music lovers would take albums of rumba music back with them once their vacation was over. Rumba music made its way to the United States in the late 1920s. Interest in Latin music was at its peak in the U.S., and when Xavier Cugat, a Spanish-American band leade formed an orchestra specializing in Latin American music, rumba music was the focal point. By the end of the 1930's, the band was recognized as the most outstanding Latin orchestra of the time.

The song “The Peanut Vendor,” by Cuban musician Moises Simons became the first major rumba hit in 1930. Based on the calls of a street vendor, the song held true to rumba's storytelling roots. It became the best-selling song of any Cuban musician ever. It helped create the rumba craze that swept the nation through the 1940s. Since it's release, the song has been re-recorded 160 times by a wide variety of musicians, including Louis Armstrong.

Rumba truly became a phenomenon in the 1930's when American film actor George Raft played the part of a dancer in the movie “Rumba.” Quickly gaining a reputation as the “dance of romance,” the rumba was more popular than ever. The film had a big influence of amateur music lovers and dancers. Soon, dance clubs across the country were blaring the Afro-Cuban sound.

Rumba music can still be heard in many Latin nightclubs and on the radio today. Spanning virtually all genres, rumba music can be heard on tracks like “Fields of Gold” by Sting, “Under the Boardwalk” by the Drifters and “Everything” by Michael Buble. Not surprisingly, they are all popular chart-topping rumba hits. Latin artists like Carlos Santana have recorded their take on the classic rumba music with songs like “Spanish Rumba.” Because of the romantic mood the music sets, any couples choose rumba music for their first dance at their weddings. Whether you're hitting the club or sharing a romantic dance with a special someone at a wedding, rumba music won't be far.

Characterized by it's catchy rhythms, romantic mood and Latin flair, rumba music is truly a fusion of the best of both worlds. With African roots and Cuban influence, rumba music in America has become classic for ballroom dancers and music lovers alike.

Works Cited

Manuel, Peter, Kenneth M. Bilby, and Michael D. Largey. Caribbean currents: Caribbean music from rumba to reggae. Philadelphia: Temple University Press, 1995. Print.
"Rumba History of Dance." Central Home Learn to Dance Videos, Exercise Videos, Fitness Videos, Sports, Music and Educational Videos DVD CD Books.. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Oct. 2011. .
"Rumba | American Sabor." American Sabor Home Page | American Sabor. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Oct. 2011. .
"Top Hat Ballroom Dancing in Barboursville, WV." Top Hat Ballroom Dancing in Huntington and Barboursville West Virginia. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Oct. 2011. .