11.1 Latin music in the United States
12 min read•august 20, 2024
Latin music has become a vibrant force in the United States, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary styles. From to , these genres reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of Latin American communities, gaining mainstream recognition and influencing American pop culture.
The rise of Latin music in the US has led to increased representation in media and crossover success for many artists. This cultural exchange has shaped the identity of Latin American communities, serving as a source of pride and connection to heritage while navigating the complexities of assimilation and cultural preservation.
Latin music genres in the US
- Latin music has become increasingly popular in the United States, with various genres gaining mainstream recognition
- These genres often blend traditional Latin rhythms with contemporary music styles, reflecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of Latin American communities in the US
Salsa
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- Originated in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s, combining elements of Cuban son, Puerto Rican bomba and plena, and American jazz
- Characterized by its lively, syncopated rhythms, brass instrumentation, and call-and-response vocals
- Notable artists include Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, and Marc Anthony
Merengue
- Originated in the Dominican Republic, featuring a fast-paced, 2/4 rhythm and prominent use of the accordion and güira (a metal scraper)
- Became popular in the US during the 1980s and 1990s, with artists like Juan Luis Guerra and Wilfrido Vargas gaining international recognition
- Often associated with festive celebrations and social dancing
Bachata
- Also originated in the Dominican Republic, initially stigmatized as "music of the poor" before gaining wider acceptance in the 1990s
- Features a slower, more romantic style compared to , with guitar-driven melodies and emotional vocals
- Artists like Romeo Santos and Prince Royce have helped popularize in the US
Reggaeton
- Developed in Puerto Rico during the 1990s, blending Jamaican reggae and dancehall with Latin American genres like salsa and bomba
- Characterized by its distinctive "dembow" rhythm, rapped vocals, and often sexually-charged lyrics
- Gained mainstream popularity in the US during the 2000s, with artists like Daddy Yankee and Wisin & Yandel
Latin pop
- Encompasses a wide range of pop music styles influenced by Latin American genres and performed primarily in Spanish
- Often features romantic ballads, upbeat dance tracks, and collaborations with American pop artists
- Notable artists include Enrique Iglesias, , and
Regional Mexican music
- Includes various traditional and contemporary music styles from different regions of Mexico, such as mariachi, norteño, and banda
- Maintains a strong following among Mexican-American communities in the US
- Artists like Vicente Fernández and Jenni Rivera have achieved significant success in the US market
Influential Latin artists in the US
- Many Latin American artists have achieved remarkable success in the United States, crossing over into the mainstream music industry and gaining recognition beyond Latin music audiences
- These artists have played a crucial role in popularizing Latin music genres and representing Latin American culture in the US
Selena
- Mexican-American singer known as the "Queen of ," blending traditional Mexican music with pop, R&B, and disco
- Achieved groundbreaking success in the 1990s before her tragic death in 1995
- Helped pave the way for other Latin artists in the US music industry
Gloria Estefan
- Cuban-American singer, songwriter, and actress, known for her work with the Miami Sound Machine
- Achieved international success with hits like "Conga" and "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You," introducing to mainstream audiences
- Has sold over 100 million records worldwide and won multiple Grammy Awards
Ricky Martin
- Puerto Rican singer, actor, and author, known for his energetic performances and fusion of Latin pop and world music
- Gained international fame with his hit single "Livin' La Vida Loca" in 1999, which helped spark the "Latin pop explosion" in the US
- Has sold over 70 million records worldwide and won numerous awards
Shakira
- Colombian singer, songwriter, and dancer, known for her unique blend of Latin pop, rock, and Arabic music influences
- Achieved global success with hits like "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie," becoming one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time
- Has won multiple Grammy and and is recognized for her philanthropic work
Jennifer Lopez
- American actress, singer, and dancer of Puerto Rican descent, known for her versatile talents and successful crossover into the mainstream entertainment industry
- Has achieved significant success in both music and film, with hit singles like "If You Had My Love" and "On the Floor"
- Considered a trailblazer for Latin artists in Hollywood and has been named one of the most influential Hispanic entertainers in the US
Bad Bunny
- Puerto Rican rapper, singer, and songwriter, known for his innovative approach to reggaeton and Latin trap music
- Has achieved massive success in the US and globally, with his albums "YHLQMDLG" and "El Último Tour Del Mundo" breaking records and topping charts
- Recognized for his unique fashion sense, socially conscious lyrics, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community
Latin music industry in the US
- The Latin music industry in the United States has experienced significant growth and development in recent decades
- This growth can be attributed to factors such as the increasing Latin American population in the US, the global appeal of Latin music genres, and the efforts of key industry players
Record labels
- Major record labels like Sony Music Latin, Universal Music Latin Entertainment, and Warner Music Latina have played a crucial role in promoting and distributing Latin music in the US
- These labels often have dedicated divisions focused on Latin music, signing and developing artists from various genres
- Independent labels like Fania Records and Premium Latin Music have also contributed to the growth of the Latin music industry
Radio stations
- Latin music radio stations have been instrumental in exposing audiences to a wide range of Latin music genres and artists
- Stations like La Mega 97.9 FM in New York City and KLVE 107.5 FM in Los Angeles have large listener bases and help break new Latin artists
- The rise of streaming platforms has also allowed for the creation of specialized Latin music playlists and radio stations
Music festivals
- Latin music festivals have become increasingly popular in the US, providing a platform for artists to showcase their talent and connect with fans
- Notable festivals include the in Wisconsin, the in Chicago, and the (LAMC) in New York City
- These festivals often feature a diverse lineup of Latin music genres and attract audiences from various cultural backgrounds
Awards shows
- Latin music awards shows have played a significant role in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Latin artists in the US
- The Latin Grammy Awards, established in 2000, is the most prestigious awards show for Latin music, honoring excellence in various categories
- Other notable awards shows include the , the , and the
Cultural impact of Latin music in the US
- Latin music has had a profound impact on American culture, influencing various aspects of society and shaping the cultural identity of Latin American communities in the US
- The growing presence of Latin music in the mainstream has led to increased representation, crossover success, and cultural exchange
Representation in mainstream media
- The success of Latin music artists has led to increased representation of Latin American culture in mainstream media
- Latin artists are frequently featured in popular television shows, films, and commercials, helping to normalize and celebrate Latin American culture
- This representation has been crucial in challenging stereotypes and promoting a more diverse and inclusive media landscape
Influence on American pop culture
- Latin music has had a significant influence on American pop culture, with many Latin music elements being incorporated into mainstream music genres
- Pop artists like Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, and Cardi B have collaborated with Latin artists and incorporated Latin music styles into their own work
- The popularity of Latin dance styles like salsa, merengue, and reggaeton has also influenced American dance culture
Crossover success
- Many Latin music artists have achieved crossover success in the US, gaining popularity among non-Latin audiences
- Artists like Shakira, Ricky Martin, and Enrique Iglesias have successfully navigated the American music industry, releasing English-language albums and collaborating with mainstream artists
- This crossover success has helped bridge cultural gaps and expose American audiences to Latin music and culture
Language barriers
- Despite the growing popularity of Latin music in the US, language barriers can still pose a challenge for some artists and audiences
- Some Latin artists choose to record English-language versions of their songs to reach a wider audience, while others maintain their Spanish-language lyrics as a form of cultural expression
- The increasing presence of bilingual and Spanish-language content in American media has helped break down these barriers and promote cultural understanding
Latin music and identity in the US
- Latin music plays a significant role in shaping and expressing the cultural identity of Latin American communities in the United States
- For many Latinx individuals, music serves as a powerful tool for celebrating their heritage, navigating generational differences, and asserting their place in American society
Latinx pride
- Latin music often serves as a source of pride for Latinx communities in the US, allowing them to celebrate their cultural roots and assert their identity
- Listening to and supporting Latin music artists can be a way for Latinx individuals to connect with their heritage and express solidarity with their community
- The success of Latin music artists in the US also serves as a source of inspiration and representation for Latinx youth
Cultural heritage
- Latin music genres are deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Latin American countries, reflecting the diverse histories, traditions, and experiences of these communities
- For many Latinx individuals in the US, engaging with Latin music is a way to maintain a connection to their ancestral homeland and preserve their cultural heritage
- The intergenerational transmission of Latin music traditions helps ensure the continuity of cultural identity across generations
Generational differences
- The relationship between Latin music and identity can vary across different generations of Latinx individuals in the US
- Older generations may have a stronger connection to traditional Latin music genres and may view these genres as a crucial part of their cultural identity
- Younger generations, while still appreciating traditional genres, may also embrace newer Latin music styles that reflect their experiences as bicultural and bilingual individuals
Assimilation vs preservation
- The role of Latin music in the lives of Latinx individuals in the US can be influenced by the complex dynamics of assimilation and cultural preservation
- Some Latinx individuals may feel pressure to assimilate into mainstream American culture, leading them to distance themselves from Latin music and cultural traditions
- Others may actively seek to preserve their cultural heritage through music, using Latin music as a means of resisting assimilation and asserting their identity
Latin music fusion in the US
- The fusion of Latin music with other genres has been a key factor in the evolution and popularity of Latin music in the United States
- These fusion styles reflect the diverse cultural influences and experiences of Latin American communities in the US and have helped introduce Latin music to new audiences
Latin music meets hip-hop
- The fusion of Latin music with hip-hop has given rise to genres like Latin trap and reggaeton, which have gained massive popularity in the US
- Artists like , Cardi B, and Pitbull have successfully blended Latin music elements with hip-hop beats and rap vocals
- This fusion reflects the experiences of young Latinx individuals who have grown up with both Latin and American music influences
Latin music meets EDM
- The combination of Latin music with electronic dance music (EDM) has created a vibrant and energetic fusion style
- DJs and producers like Diplo, Major Lazer, and Steve Aoki have collaborated with Latin artists to create dance tracks that incorporate Latin music elements
- This fusion has helped introduce Latin music to EDM audiences and has become popular in dance clubs and music festivals
Latin music meets rock
- The fusion of Latin music with rock has a long history in the US, with artists like Santana and Los Lobos paving the way for this hybrid style
- More recent bands like Maná and Juanes have continued to blend Latin music elements with rock instrumentation and aesthetics
- This fusion reflects the diverse musical influences of Latin American communities and has helped challenge traditional genre boundaries
Spanglish lyrics
- The use of Spanglish lyrics, which blend English and Spanish words and phrases, has become increasingly common in Latin music fusion styles
- Artists like Pitbull, Becky G, and Enrique Iglesias have incorporated Spanglish lyrics into their music as a way of reflecting their bicultural identities
- Spanglish lyrics also serve as a way of making Latin music more accessible to non-Spanish-speaking audiences while still maintaining a connection to Latin American culture
Latin music and social issues in the US
- Latin music has often served as a platform for addressing social issues and advocating for change within Latin American communities in the United States
- Many Latin music artists use their music to raise awareness about issues like immigration, discrimination, and political activism
Immigration
- The experiences of Latin American immigrants in the US have been a recurring theme in Latin music, with many artists using their music to share stories of struggle, resilience, and hope
- Songs like "Immigrants (We Get the Job Done)" from the Hamilton Mixtape and "El Hielo" by La Santa Cecilia address the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants and call for immigration reform
- Latin music has also been used to raise funds and support for immigrant rights organizations and campaigns
Discrimination
- Latin music artists have used their platform to address issues of discrimination and racism faced by Latin American communities in the US
- Songs like "Latinoamérica" by Calle 13 and "Racism" by Romeo Santos call out systemic racism and celebrate Latinx pride and unity
- Many Latin music artists have also been vocal advocates for the Black Lives Matter movement and have used their music to show solidarity with the fight against racial injustice
Political activism
- Latin music has been a powerful tool for political activism and mobilization within Latin American communities in the US
- Artists like Residente and iLe have used their music to criticize government corruption, advocate for Puerto Rican independence, and support various social justice causes
- Latin music has also been used to encourage voter registration and participation, particularly among younger generations of Latinx voters
Community building
- Latin music has played a crucial role in building and strengthening Latin American communities in the US
- Music festivals, concerts, and dance events serve as important spaces for Latinx individuals to come together, celebrate their culture, and build social connections
- Latin music has also been used to raise funds and support for community organizations and initiatives that serve Latin American populations in the US
Future of Latin music in the US
- The future of Latin music in the United States looks bright, with various emerging trends, new artists, and technological advancements shaping the industry
- As Latin music continues to gain global popularity, it is likely to play an even more significant role in American culture and the music industry as a whole
Emerging trends
- One of the key emerging trends in Latin music is the increasing collaboration between Latin artists and mainstream American artists
- The popularity of bilingual and Spanglish tracks is also likely to continue, as more artists seek to appeal to diverse audiences and reflect their multicultural identities
- The fusion of Latin music with various genres, including hip-hop, EDM, and K-pop, is expected to create new and exciting hybrid styles
New artists to watch
- The Latin music industry is constantly evolving, with new artists emerging and bringing fresh perspectives and sounds to the genre
- Some notable new artists to watch include Rosalía, Ozuna, Karol G, and Rauw Alejandro, who are pushing the boundaries of traditional Latin music genres and gaining international recognition
- The rise of social media and streaming platforms has also made it easier for independent Latin artists to build a following and achieve success without relying on traditional industry structures
Technological advancements
- Advances in music technology are likely to have a significant impact on the future of Latin music in the US
- The increasing use of AI and machine learning in music production and distribution may help Latin artists reach new audiences and create innovative sounds
- The growth of virtual and augmented reality technologies may also create new opportunities for immersive Latin music experiences and performances
Globalization of Latin music
- As Latin music continues to gain popularity around the world, it is likely to become an even more significant force in the global music industry
- The success of Latin music in the US market may also open doors for Latin artists in other countries, leading to increased cultural exchange and collaboration
- The globalization of Latin music may also help challenge stereotypes and promote greater understanding and appreciation of Latin American culture worldwide
Key Terms to Review (33)
Bachata: Bachata is a genre of music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic in the early 20th century, characterized by its romantic themes and rhythmic guitar melodies. It combines elements of African, European, and indigenous musical traditions, creating a unique sound that resonates with passion and emotion. Bachata's rise in popularity reflects broader cultural trends, making it an important part of Caribbean music and Latin music in the United States.
Bad Bunny: Bad Bunny is a Puerto Rican singer and rapper who has become a prominent figure in the Latin music scene, particularly in the genres of reggaeton and Latin trap. His unique sound, characterized by catchy hooks and eclectic production, has played a significant role in popularizing Latin music in the United States and reshaping the global music industry.
Billboard Latin Music Awards: The Billboard Latin Music Awards is an annual event that honors the most popular Latin music artists, songs, and albums based on Billboard's sales and airplay charts. This awards show not only celebrates the achievements of Latin musicians but also highlights the growing influence of Latin music in the United States and around the world, showcasing its integration into mainstream culture.
Calle Ocho Festival: The Calle Ocho Festival is an annual street festival held in Little Havana, Miami, celebrating Latin culture, music, and food. This vibrant event showcases a wide array of performances from renowned Latin artists and features a rich blend of various Latin music styles, reflecting the diversity and cultural heritage of the Latino community in the United States.
Clave rhythm: Clave rhythm is a fundamental rhythmic pattern in Afro-Cuban music, consisting of a 2-3 or 3-2 syncopated structure that serves as a backbone for many styles, including son, rumba, and salsa. This rhythmic motif not only organizes the music but also reflects the cultural blend of African and Spanish influences that characterize the music of Latin America and its diasporas.
Crossover appeal: Crossover appeal refers to the ability of a musical artist or genre to attract listeners from different musical backgrounds and demographics, transcending traditional genre boundaries. This phenomenon is especially prevalent in the context of Latin music in the United States, where artists can reach both mainstream and niche audiences, significantly impacting their popularity and commercial success.
Cuban Revolution: The Cuban Revolution was a pivotal political and social movement that took place between 1953 and 1959, leading to the overthrow of the authoritarian regime of Fulgencio Batista and the establishment of a socialist government under Fidel Castro. This revolution significantly transformed Cuban society, culture, and its relationship with the United States, impacting various aspects of music and identity in the region.
Cultural assimilation: Cultural assimilation is the process by which individuals or groups from one culture adopt the customs, values, and beliefs of another culture, often resulting in a blending or merging of cultural identities. This phenomenon is especially significant in multicultural societies, where immigrants adapt to the dominant culture while still maintaining elements of their original identity.
Gloria Estefan: Gloria Estefan is a Cuban-American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who is one of the most successful Latin music artists in the United States. She rose to fame in the late 1980s with her band, Miami Sound Machine, and is known for blending Latin rhythms with pop music, which helped to popularize Latin music in mainstream American culture. Her contributions have paved the way for many other Latin artists and she is considered a cultural icon.
Identity expression: Identity expression refers to the ways in which individuals or groups convey their personal or cultural identities through various forms, including music, art, fashion, and language. This concept emphasizes how creative outlets can serve as powerful tools for individuals to articulate their unique experiences and connect with their cultural heritage, particularly in diverse environments like the United States.
Jennifer Lopez: Jennifer Lopez is a multi-talented American singer, actress, and dancer who has significantly influenced the landscape of Latin music in the United States. Known as J.Lo, she has played a pivotal role in popularizing Latin rhythms and styles within mainstream music, bridging cultural gaps and paving the way for future Latin artists. Her contributions extend beyond music, as she has also acted in numerous films and television shows, making her a prominent figure in both the entertainment industry and Latin culture.
La onda chicana: La onda chicana refers to a cultural and musical movement that emerged in the United States during the 1980s, characterized by a fusion of Mexican-American and Chicano identity with rock and roll, punk, and traditional Mexican music. This movement highlights the unique experiences and perspectives of the Chicano community, emphasizing themes of cultural pride, social issues, and resistance against discrimination.
Latin Alternative Music Conference: The Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) is an annual event that celebrates and promotes Latin alternative music, showcasing emerging and established artists from diverse genres. It serves as a platform for industry professionals, musicians, and fans to engage in discussions, attend performances, and explore the evolving landscape of Latin music in the United States and beyond. This conference has played a significant role in shaping the visibility and appreciation of Latin alternative music within the broader music industry.
Latin American Music Awards: The Latin American Music Awards are an annual awards ceremony that celebrates the top Latin music artists and their contributions to the music industry. Established to recognize both established and emerging talent, the awards showcase a variety of genres, including reggaeton, Latin pop, and regional Mexican music, reflecting the rich diversity of Latin American music in the United States and beyond.
Latin Explosion: The Latin Explosion refers to the surge of Latin music's popularity in the United States during the late 1990s and early 2000s, characterized by a fusion of traditional Latin rhythms with mainstream pop and hip-hop influences. This phenomenon marked a significant cultural shift as artists like Shakira, Ricky Martin, and Jennifer Lopez gained massive commercial success, bringing Latin sounds into the American music mainstream.
Latin Grammy Awards: The Latin Grammy Awards are an annual awards ceremony honoring outstanding achievements in the Latin music industry, celebrating diverse genres and artists from Latin America and the U.S. The awards recognize excellence in various categories, showcasing the influence and popularity of Latin music globally while bridging cultural divides and promoting new talent.
Latin pop: Latin pop is a genre of music that blends Latin rhythms and melodies with contemporary pop elements, creating a vibrant sound that appeals to a broad audience. It emerged in the late 20th century, driven by the influence of artists who fused traditional Latin music styles with modern pop trends, resulting in a dynamic genre that has gained international popularity and commercial success.
Latin rock: Latin rock is a fusion music genre that blends rock music with Latin American rhythms and instruments, often incorporating elements from various styles such as salsa, cumbia, and reggae. This genre emerged prominently in the 1960s and 1970s and played a vital role in bringing Latin American culture to the mainstream music scene in the United States.
Los angeles fiesta broadway: Los Angeles Fiesta Broadway is an annual street festival that celebrates Latino culture and heritage, taking place in downtown Los Angeles. The event showcases a vibrant mix of music, dance, food, and art, reflecting the rich contributions of the Latin American community to the cultural fabric of the city.
Los dells festival: Los Dells Festival is an annual music festival held in Wisconsin that celebrates Latin music and culture, featuring a diverse lineup of artists from various Latin genres. The festival serves as a significant platform for promoting Latin music in the United States, showcasing both established and emerging artists while fostering a sense of community among attendees. It highlights the growing popularity of Latin music across different demographics and its influence on the broader music scene.
Marketability: Marketability refers to the appeal and potential of a product or artist to be sold or promoted within the music industry. In the context of Latin music in the United States, marketability reflects how well Latin artists and their music resonate with diverse audiences, impacting their commercial success and visibility in a competitive landscape. This concept encompasses not only musical style and authenticity but also factors like marketing strategies, cultural relevance, and audience engagement.
Merengue: Merengue is a lively musical genre and dance originating from the Dominican Republic, characterized by its upbeat tempo and simple, repetitive rhythms. It reflects a fusion of African, European, and indigenous influences, making it a vibrant representation of Caribbean culture. Merengue has become a symbol of national identity in the Dominican Republic and has gained popularity across Latin America and in the United States.
Nuyorican salsa: Nuyorican salsa is a vibrant music and dance genre that emerged from the Puerto Rican diaspora in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s. It blends traditional Cuban salsa rhythms with elements of jazz, funk, and R&B, reflecting the unique cultural identity of Puerto Ricans living in urban America. This style not only showcases the rhythmic complexity of salsa but also serves as a powerful expression of cultural pride and social issues faced by the Nuyorican community.
Premios lo nuestro: Premios Lo Nuestro is an annual awards show that celebrates the best in Latin music, established in 1989. It honors artists across various genres, such as salsa, reggaeton, and Latin pop, showcasing the growing influence and popularity of Latin music in the United States and beyond. The awards are determined by a combination of public voting and industry professionals, reflecting both audience preferences and professional recognition.
Reggaeton: Reggaeton is a genre of music that originated in Puerto Rico during the late 1990s, blending Latin rhythms with reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall influences. It has gained immense popularity across the Americas and beyond, often characterized by its distinctive beat and lyrical themes that resonate with youth culture.
Regional Mexican Music: Regional Mexican music refers to a diverse array of musical styles that originated in Mexico and are often associated with specific regions of the country. This genre encompasses various forms including mariachi, norteño, banda, and ranchera, each reflecting the unique cultural and historical influences of different areas within Mexico. Its influence has extended into the United States, particularly within Latino communities, creating a vibrant fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds.
Ricky Martin: Ricky Martin is a Puerto Rican singer, actor, and author who became a prominent figure in the Latin music scene in the United States during the late 1990s. His fusion of pop, rock, and Latin rhythms helped propel Latin music into the mainstream, making him one of the first Latin crossover artists to achieve significant success in the English-speaking market.
Ruido fest: Ruido fest is a vibrant music festival celebrating the diverse sounds and cultures of Latin America, primarily showcasing genres like rock, punk, and alternative music from various Latin American countries. This festival acts as a platform for emerging artists to gain visibility and connect with audiences, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange within the Latin music scene in the United States.
Salsa: Salsa is a lively, rhythmic dance and music genre that originated in the Caribbean, particularly from Cuban son and other Afro-Cuban music styles. It blends elements from various musical traditions, including jazz and rock, showcasing vibrant percussion, brass instruments, and engaging dance rhythms, making it a staple in Latin music and culture.
Selena: Selena Quintanilla, known simply as Selena, was a highly influential Mexican-American singer, songwriter, and fashion designer who played a pivotal role in popularizing Tejano music. Her blend of Latin and pop sounds, along with her charismatic performances, helped bridge cultural gaps and brought Latin music into mainstream American pop culture. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1995, but her legacy continues to inspire countless artists and fans worldwide.
Shakira: Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter, known for her unique blend of Latin, rock, and pop music, along with her distinctive voice and belly dancing skills. She has become an international icon, significantly influencing the landscape of Latin music in North America and beyond, while also playing a crucial role in the globalization of music through her collaborations and crossover hits.
Syncopation: Syncopation is a musical technique where the expected rhythmic patterns are disrupted, creating emphasis on off-beats or weaker beats. This technique adds complexity and surprise to music, making it lively and engaging, especially in genres that emphasize rhythm and groove.
Tejano music: Tejano music is a genre that blends traditional Mexican music with elements of American pop, country, and rock, originating in the Tejano culture of South Texas. It represents a unique fusion of cultural influences and is often characterized by the use of instruments such as the accordion and bajo sexto. This genre has not only shaped the musical landscape of Texas but has also played a significant role in the broader context of Latin music in the United States.