Colombia

From Cumbia to Shakira

Caribbean styles of music are some of the most popular and well-liked genres in the Colombian music culture. Cumbia is a Caribbean style that combines Spanish and African sounds. This type of music is reminiscent of the horrifying slavery before it was abolished in the 19th century.

Cumbia is very rhythmic, and when it originated, it included only vocals and drums. Recently, musicians have added other percussion elements such as keyboards, plus the saxophone and trombones. The unofficial Colombia national anthem is a form of cumbia called "Cumbia Cienaguera," which represents the flavor and atmosphere of Colombia.

Currulao is the most African-influenced genre of music specifically from the Pacific region of the country. This type of music is traditionally played by four musicians and the instruments include a drum, a shaker and a Colombian marimba.

One of the most contemporary styles of music in Colombia is the salsa. Salsa dancing has become a popular competitive activity, with Colombian dancers receiving awards every year from international competitions. Colombian salsa dancing has a particular style unique to other countries' salsa traditions, as they focus more on footwork while the upper body remains still.

Like every other country, Colombia has a pretty prominent rock scene, having dabbled in other genres like metal, alternative and ska. In other countries of Latin America, Colombia is known for its punk rock scene. Electronic music has also hit the country in recent years, leading to the development of raves and dance parties.

Pop music almost always mixes traditional Colombian sounds with more modern genres. The most prominent and successful Colombian musician is Shakira, who has achieved international success and began writing albums in English, making it to the mainstream radio in America. Juanes is another famous Colombian musician who has seen his songs top charts all over the world.

Sidestepper


One of the most popular bands in Colombia, Sidestepper is known for combining modern electronic sounds and traditional cumbian sounds, creating the genre "electro cumbia." The band has included many different musicians since its formation in 1996. It features guest vocalists and musicians who rotate in and out of shows and recording.

The band was created when Richard Blair, an English DJ, and Iván Benavides, a Colombian singer/songwriter, collaborated musically. The band has released five studio albums, the last one, The Buena Vibra Sound System, having been released in 2008 as a mix album.

Since then, Sidestepper has been without a record contract, but still working together minus Benavides, who moved from New York back to Colombia to work on a solo project. The band is currently working on a new album which is expected for release in 2013.

Sidestepper has found success inside and outside Colombia's musical culture. They are very roots-oriented with a modern flair. In 2004, the band played at Coachella, a major music festival in the United States.