Latin Music in Seattle: A Guide
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Looking for a guide to Latin music in Seattle? Check out our comprehensive guide, featuring the best venues, bands, and more!
What is Latin music?
Latin music is a genre of music that is typically associated with the countries of Latin America. It is a fusion of African and European musical elements. The music has a rich history and has been influenced by a variety of cultures.
Origins
Latin music is a catch-all term for music from Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries. It encompasses a wide range of genres, from the cumbia of Colombia to the tango of Argentina, and has been influencing mainstream American music for generations.
In the early 20th century, Latin music was brought to the United States by immigrants from Cuba, Mexico and Puerto Rico. These immigrant communities kept alive their traditional music while also creating new styles that blended their cultures with those of their new home. In the 1940s and ’50s, Latin music experienced a golden age in America, with artists like Xavier Cugat and Desi Arnaz becoming household names.
Latin music continued to evolve in the decades that followed, with Cuban artists like Gloria Estefan and Celia Cruz helping to bring it into the mainstream. Today, Latin music is more popular than ever, thanks in part to crossover hits by artists like Shakira and Ricky Martin.
Characteristics
In its simplest definition, Latin music is anything sung or played in Spanish or Portuguese. This broad definition covers a wide range of music from across the globe, including countries as far-flung as Spain, Portugal, Mexico, Cuba, and Brazil. The common thread that ties all of this music together is the language—and the fact that it originates from or is performed in Latin America.
Latin music is incredibly diverse, encompassing everything from traditional folk tunes to modern pop hits. It covers a wide range of genres, including salsa, merengue, bachata, flamenco, and rumba.
One of the things that makes Latin music so special is its ability to cross over into multiple genres. For example, you might find a Bachata song with heavy R&B influences, or a Merengue tune with a strong Hip-Hop beat. This fusion of styles has produced some truly unique and memorable songs that have found crossover success in both the Latin and mainstream markets.
Where to find Latin music in Seattle
If you’re looking for some Latin music in Seattle, you’re in luck! This city has a vibrant and thriving Latin music scene. You can find Latin music in a variety of places, from concert halls to nightclubs. In this guide, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the best places to find Latin music in Seattle.
Clubs
Though there are fewer Latin clubs in Seattle than there once were, there are still a few places where you can go to hear Latin music. El Corazon, located in the heart of Seattle’s Latino community in the CD, is one of the most popular spots. They offer a variety of Latin music, from salsa and merengue to bachata and reggaeton. Another option is Nectar Lounge in Fremont, which has a regular Latin night featuring some of the best local DJs.
Concerts
Looking to add some Latin flair to your musical repertoire? You’re in luck — Seattle is home to a vibrant and thriving Latin music scene. From funky salsa beats to soulful rancheras, there’s a little something for everyone. Check out our guide below for some of the best places to find Latin music in Seattle.
Concerts
One of the best ways to experience Latin music is live and in person. Seattle is home to a number of great venues that regularly host Latin concerts, including the Showbox, the Moore Theatre, and Neumos. Keep an eye on their respective websites or sign up for their mailing lists to stay up-to-date on upcoming shows.
Festivals
If you’re looking for a more festive atmosphere, Seattle also plays host to a number of Latin-themed festivals throughout the year. past festivals have included everything from celebrating Día de los Muertos to honoring Afro-Latino heritage. Check out theSeattle Center website for a calendar of upcoming events.
Radio
Can’t make it out to a show or festival? You can still get your fix of Latin music by tuning into one of Seattle’s many Spanish-language radio stations. KEXP 90.3 FM offers a weekly two-hour program called El Ritmo Latino that features both classic and contemporary tunes, while KDNA 101.5 FM specializes in Mexican regional music 24 hours a day.
Festivals
In addition to the many clubs, bars, and restaurants that feature Latin music, there are also a number of festivals and other events that showcase this vibrant style of music. Here are some of the most popular Latin music festivals in Seattle:
-The Seattle International Salsa Congress is one of the largest salsa events in the country, featuring some of the biggest names in salsa music. Held every year in late September or early October, the Congress features three days of non-stop dancing, workshops, and concerts.
-The Vancouver International Bachata Festival is another major event for Latin music lovers. This four-day festival features dancers from all over the world, competition finals, and nightly social dancing. The Vancouver Bachata Festival takes place every year in late July or early August.
-The Seattle Flamenco Festival is an annual event that celebrates the traditional Spanish dance form of Flamenco. The festival features a variety of events including concerts, classes, and film screenings. The Seattle Flamenco Festival takes place every year in early May.
How to get the most out of Latin music in Seattle
Seattle is home to a variety of music, and Latin music is no exception. There are many ways to enjoy Latin music in Seattle. You can go to a concert, a club, or a restaurant. You can also listen to Latin music on the radio or on your computer.
Learn the basics of salsa dancing
If you’re new to salsa dancing, there are a few basics you should know before hitting the dance floor. First, salsa is danced in pairs, with the lead dancer typically taking the front position and the follow dancer in the back. The lead dancer will often put their left hand on the follow’s right shoulder, and their right hand on the follow’s waist.
The basic step in salsa dancing is called a “basic turn” or a “spot turn,” and it goes like this: The lead steps forward with their left foot, then turns 90 degrees to the left and steps backward with their right foot. The follow then steps backward with their left foot, then turns 90 degrees to their left and steps forward with their right foot. From there, the lead and follow take turns stepping forward and backward, turning 90 degrees each time.
Once you’ve got the basic step down, you can start adding in some embellishments. For instance, the lead can do a cross body lead, where they wrap their arm around the follow’s back and bring them around to the other side. Or you can try a handbrake turn, where the lead does a regular basic turn but at the end of it, puts their hand on the floor to stop themselves from turning too much (this one takes some practice!).
So go out there and give it a try – soon you’ll be dancing like a pro!
Dress the part
In order to really get the most out of your Latin music experience in Seattle, you should dress the part. While there is no one “Latin” look, there are certain items that will help you fit in and feel more comfortable at a venue or event. For men, this might mean a collared shirt and slacks or dark jeans. For women, a sundress or skirt and blouse is always a good choice. And don’t forget to accessorize with some flair – a scarf, necklace or earrings with some vibrant colors can really make your outfit pop.
Be prepared to party all night
No matter what your preferred Latin music genre is, Seattle has a venue for you. Whether you like to salsa, bachata, or merengue, there’s a place where you can hear live music and dance the night away. Here are some tips on how to make the most of Latin music in Seattle.
First, be prepared to party all night. Most Latin clubs don’t get going until 10 p.m. or later, and they often stay open until 2 a.m., 3 a.m., or even later. So if you’re planning on going out, be sure to get a good night’s sleep beforehand so you can really enjoy yourself.
Second, dress to impress. Many Latin clubs have dress codes that require men to wear collared shirts and women to wear heels. So before you head out, check the dress code of the club you’re planning on going to and dress accordingly.
Third, be prepared to dance. Even if you don’t consider yourself a good dancer, Latin music is so infectious that it’s impossible not to move your feet when you hear it. So let loose and have fun – no one is judging!
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re new to Latin music or dancing, don’t be afraid to ask your friends or the staff at the club for help getting started. They’ll be more than happy to show you the ropes and help you have a great time.
