Rumba

The rumba originates from Cuba but is based on African styles. It consists of eight bars played in 2/4 time, without variation and danced with often exaggerated dance movements.

It all started in the middle of the 19th century when Cuba was a Spanish colony. The original meaning of rumba refers to a social gathering, usually outdoors.

In Rumba instruments like drums or maracas or percussion instruments are being played. It is joined by hand clapping, singing and dancing. The events for people to throw a rumba party are often birthdays, baptisms, special holidays, weddings or welcome home parties.

Rumba came to the United States during World War I. It became quite popular, as it had in many other countries around the world.

In the beginning the word "Rhumba" was used for many music styles coming from Cuba. These styles included the pregón, the canción and the bolero. It is only since a few years that people have learned to distinguish the rumba from other similar music styles.

The rumba has three styles: guaguancó, columbia, and yambú. The guaguanco is the best known and is very popular in Havana. The lyrics are usually in Spanish. The columbia and yambú styles are more exciting.

Some notable rumba composers are Agustín Pina, Roberto Leyva, Silvestre Méndez, and Pablo Milanés. Perhaps the best known guaguancó composer is Gonzalo Asencio "Tío Tom" who is referred to as "The King of Guaguancó".