Latin Music in Denver: A Guide

Looking for the best Latin music in Denver? Check out our guide for the top venues, DJs, and events!

Introduction

If you’re a fan of Latin music, you’ll be happy to know that Denver offers a variety of ways to enjoy this genre. From clubs and bars to festivals and concerts, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a look at some of the best places to enjoy Latin music in Denver:

Club Tequilala
This popular club features live bands playing a mix of Latin genres including salsa, bachata, and merengue. There’s also a dance floor if you feel like getting up and moving.

La Rumba
Located in the heart of Denver’s historic Five Points neighborhood, La Rumba is one of the city’s most popular Latin clubs. They offer live music and DJ-spun tunes seven nights a week, so you can always find something to enjoy.

Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom
This concert venue hosts a variety of Latin bands and artists throughout the year. Check their calendar for upcoming shows.

Denver International Festival
This annual event celebrates Denver’s diverse cultures with two days of music, dance, food, and more. The lineup includes both local and national performers.

A Brief History of Latin Music in Denver

The roots of Latin music in Denver can be traced back to the city’s large Mexican-American population. In the early 20th century, groups like Los Zopilotes and the Corrientes Street Orquesta were popular among Denver’s Mexican community. By the 1940s, more and more Cuban and Puerto Rican immigrants were moving to Denver, bringing with them the sounds of salsa, mambo, and cha-cha. These new genres quickly caught on with both Latinos and non-Latinos alike, and in the 1950s, Denver began to host a number of Latin music clubs.

One of the most famous was the Sabrosa nightclub, which was founded in 1958 by Cuban immigrant Raul Martinez. Martinez had been a professional musician in Cuba before coming to Denver, and he used his connections to bring some of Cuba’s biggest musical stars to perform at his club. Among them were singer Celia Cruz and bandleader Tito Puente. The Sabrosa was one of the first clubs in the United States to feature Latin music exclusively, and it quickly became a hotspot for both locals and celebrities.

Latin music continued to grow in popularity throughout the second half of the 20th century, culminating in the creation of Denver’s first Latino Cultural Center in 2002. Today, there are dozens of Latin music clubs and festivals held throughout Denver each year, making it one of the best places in the country to experience this vibrant genre.

The Current Scene

Latin music has been a part of Denver’s music scene for many years, and the city has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. There are a number of Latin music venues in Denver, ranging from intimate clubs to large concert halls.

The current scene is led by a number of young, talented musicians who are influenced by both traditional and contemporary sounds. These artists are keeping the music alive and playful, while also expanding its reach to new audiences.

Latin music is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and it is an important part of Denver’s musical culture. If you’re looking to experience the sights and sounds of Latin music in Denver, be sure to check out some of the city’s top venues.

The Future of Latin Music in Denver

It is no secret that Latin music has been on the rise in Denver over the past few years. With a rich and vibrant Latin community, it is no surprise that this genre of music has been steadily growing in popularity.

However, what is the future of Latin music in Denver? Will it continue to grow in popularity? Or will it plateau?

Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the future of Latin music in Denver is looking very bright. With a wealth of talent and a growing fan base, there is no doubt that Latin music will continue to thrive in the Mile High City.

Conclusion

Latina/o music in Denver is not a monolith, but rather a vibrant and diverse scene that includes many different styles. Whether you’re looking for traditional Mexican folklore, cutting-edge electronic cumbia, or something in between, you’re sure to find it here. So get out there and explore Denver’s Latina/o music scene for yourself!