In Colombia, took Cumbia out of the dust and into the ballrooms by arranging it for jazz-style orchestras. 3. The New York Explosion (1960s – 1970s)

took the Mambo to Mexico City and Hollywood, making "Tropical" a global obsession.

By the early 1900s, genres like in Cuba, Cumbia in Colombia, and Merengue in the Dominican Republic were the "folk music" of the countryside. They were often looked down upon by high society until they began migrating to the cities. 2. The Golden Age (1930s – 1950s)

As radio and cinema spread, the music grew "bigger." In Cuba, the era arrived. Legendary figures like Arsenio Rodríguez added piano and multiple trumpets to the Son, creating the blueprint for modern dance music.

As Salsa became more polished and "romantic," the Dominican Republic struck back with a faster tempo. revolutionized Merengue and Bachata , adding poetic lyrics and high-end production that won Grammys and filled stadiums in Europe and Asia. 5. The Modern Era: The Fusion

The story begins with the fusion of three worlds: melodies and instruments (guitar, accordion), African rhythms and percussion (conga, bongo, tambora), and Indigenous flutes and storytelling.

The story takes a massive turn in New York City. Puerto Rican and Cuban immigrants blended their sounds with American Jazz and R&B. This melting pot gave birth to .