by Luis Guerra

Don't worry, this article will contain very few words in Spanish. You probably (hopefully) can deduce the title for yourself. Let me begin by saying that there is no such thing as "Latin Music." That is an extremely broad term that encompasses many styles of music ranging from the Tangos of Argentina to Samba Brasileira in the Southern Hemisphere to the plethora of Caribbean and Central American forms. They are all American in the sense of the Americas.

Instead of discussing the historical processes which brought about the origins of Latin music, I merely want to share a few ideas and opinions on the subject that seem more accommodating for the purpose of an article such as this one. I am not, nor do I claim to be, an ethnomusicologist; therefore, when asked to write an article on Musica Latina, I can only do so from the perspective of a 21-year-old who explores Latin music as an acceptance of my heritage, and as a part of my profession which requires an understanding of diverse styles of music. I view this music with awe; there's an overwhelming number of genres within genres than can be discussed. Right now, I know very little about Latin music compared to someone who has grown up in a place like Nicaragua. For this person, the music traces its roots to a repressive environment for the majority of inhabitants in the New World.

I would like to begin by making a few points regarding the foundations of Musica Latina. These are conclusions I have drawn from playing and exploring Latin American music. When has there not been conflict in Latin America? From the beginning of post-Colombian history, the indigenous inhabitants and the slaves stolen from Africa have suffered oppressive environments largely maintained by European and American (meaning the U.S.A.) powers. Therefore, most styles within the vast domain of Latin music are responses to circumstances and issues of the time. The voice that is heard often cries for change or revolution. That is not to say all Latin music deals with these issues. Entire repertoires of musica romantica and musica para disfrutar can also be attributed to Latin Music.

Secondly, a connection to African traditions exists in musica de America. Exemplifying this relation are the African-derived rhythms used. In African tradition, drumming often accompanies ceremonies of spirituality. Latin music incorporates the spirituality of African music intermingled with elements of native and Indo-European religions. Eduardo Galeano writes, "An earthquake of drums disturbs Rio de Jainero's sleep. From the backwoods, Eku [god of the poor] mocks the rich, sending against them his deadly curses."

I see Latin music becoming musica universal. Unfortunately, Latinos seem eager to hold onto a part of their culture that is uniquely theirs. However, people from all parts of the world presently embrace the music. Accompanying this love is a desire to perform all the given styles. Bands from Japan, France, Australia and other non-Latin countries are playing Salsa, Conjuto and Mariachi -- and why shouldn't they? I believe this is musica para el mundo (world). People from any country are feeling the same things Latinos sing about.

Finally, I want to make the point that people from any place in the world should be able to play and participate in music of other parts of the world without the criticisms and snootiness that seems to be prevalent. Latin music, like all music, will continue to evolve. I could be wrong, but I do think other cultures will begin incorporating elements of Latin music which will only promote further development. I see this as only positive and meaningful as the world's inhabitants attempt to solve some of the social problems currently strangling the planet.

[In keeping with our effort to provide a forum for opinions and expression, Austin Downtown Arts Magazine welcomes your voice. Please let us know what you think about this and any other article in the magazine. Editor]