History of the Mambo
The Mambo grew from the Danzon, a Cuban national dance, but not before being influenced by the Cuban Haitians and American Jazz. The first known Mambo was presented in 1943 in Havana and many Latin American Orchestras of the time picked up and developed their own style. Due to successful “Mambo” songs and movies, this dance has become popular once again.
About the Dance
Today, there remains much confusion amongst dancers about the differences between Salsa, Salsa on beat number two, and Mambo. While mambo is the official representative in the American Rhythm Style, the patterns are very similar to Salsa. Typically, however, the mambo has slower music, and is always “danced on two.” Mambo music is also quite different than salsa music to an experienced musician’s ear. It often uses different instruments, that when slowed down, create a Cha Cha beat. This is not possible with Salsa music, whose faster music lacks these additional instruments.
Recommended Music List for Beginners
- Cuban Mambo, Xavier Cugat
- 1 Note Mambo, Perfect Dance 3
- Coco Seco, Edmundo Ros
- Micaela, Sonora Carruseles
- Guancona, Tito Puente
- No, Willie Colon
- Mopao, Africando
- Te Amo, Maelo
- Muevete, Dig
- No Me Cambie Camino, Celia Cruz and Ray Barretto