What's Happening?
NPR has released a video exploring the cultural journey of cumbia music in Monterrey, Mexico, as part of its series 'Cumbia Across Latin America.' The series highlights how cumbia, originally from Colombia, found a new home in Monterrey during the 1960s.
DJs in the city began collecting Colombian cumbia records, which led to the creation of a unique style known as cumbia rebajada, characterized by its slowed-down tempo. This musical evolution has fostered a vibrant urban subculture in Monterrey, often referred to as 'Colombia Chiquita' due to its deep connection with Colombian music and culture.
Why It's Important?
The exploration of cumbia's influence in Monterrey underscores the power of music as a cultural bridge, fostering connections between different regions and communities. Cumbia's adaptation in Monterrey highlights the city's role as a cultural hub, where music serves as a medium for identity and community expression. This cultural exchange enriches the local music scene and contributes to the broader narrative of Latin American musical evolution, showcasing how traditional genres can adapt and thrive in new environments.
