Fiveable
Fiveable

or

Log in

Find what you need to study


Light

Find what you need to study

5.4 Entertainment and Sports

5 min readjanuary 28, 2023

I

Isabela Padilha Vilela

B

Brittany Schwikert

I

Isabela Padilha Vilela

B

Brittany Schwikert

Culture, whether it is in the form of music, visual arts, performing arts or fashion plays an important role in our daily life. Being in contact with one's culture can significantly improve our quality of life. It is a part of our identity, the place where we're from and the experiences we have in this life. Art and entertainment play an important role in individual and collective expression and also provides people with a sense of belonging. 🫂

In this guide, we will explore different aspects of Spanish/latin culture to understand how spanish speaking individuals view the world and enjoy life!

Entertainment and Sports  

When it comes to entertainment in Spanish speaking countries, the first word that comes to mind is ¡⚽FUTBOL⚽! But let’s take a look at Colombia where there’s more ways to have fun than just soccer. 

Música

Tons of famous artists call Colombia home. , Carlos Vives, , J Balvin, Maluma, and all trace their roots to Colombia. 

Shakira

is originally from the northern coastal town of Barranquilla and is considered una diosa to Colombia, widely hailed as the Queen of Latin Music. She’s been topping charts since 2001 with her debut of “Whenever, Wherever.” She performed at the 2008 Inauguration for President Barack Obama and with Jennifer Lopez in the 2019 Super Bowl Halftime Show. Not to mention she’s also won 3 Grammy Awards, 12 Latin Grammy Awards, 4 MTV Video Music Awards, and 7 Billboard Music Awards. ¡Andále,

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-I0dPUPLlEgF5.png?alt=media&token=11c6045a-b469-45fc-be14-034ed59dedd5

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Juanes

is a Colombian guitarist, singer, songwriter and activist widely known throughout the world. has used his platform to raise awareness of issues plaguing Colombia through condemning the violence and corruption in his home country. In 2006 began his own philanthropic foundation dedicated to eradicating Colombia’s land mines and supporting victims of land mine accidents. He continues to be an artist beloved to his fans and to those whose lives he’s been able to positively impact through his foundation, Mi Sangre Foundation. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-JEGQ0fdB1d8T.png?alt=media&token=c4db093b-225c-422b-80c8-e76d487f6b60

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Karol G

Carolina Girlado Navarro is a Colombian singer and songwriter. Her music blends both and Latin trap, but can also be known to include reggae and . In 2018, she won the Latin Grammy Award for Best New Artist and has collaborated with some of Latin America’s biggest stars, such as J Balvin, Daddy Yankee, and Ozuna. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-q1Lu0H82nJQW.png?alt=media&token=9c3fb1f9-e2b5-4b36-b928-97c3af9f847c

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Baile

The most well known and popular style of dance in Colombia is la . The dance is said to have originated during Colombia’s struggle for independence in the 1820’s. Given Colombia’s diverse population infuses rhythms and cultural components from American Indians, Europeans, and Africans enslaved during colonial times. 

Cumbia

Colombian’s diversity can be seen through this specific type of dance. Many musicians, dancers, and historians believe ’s percussion came from African influence, and the use of the cane flute came from the Native Colombian indigenous population, while the traditional dress was brought over by the Spaniards. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-bytSegDPI21j.png?alt=media&token=bb49a3ba-69de-4c93-a595-ac8561969260

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Deportes

In nearly all Spanish-speaking countries, soccer (or ) is considered the national sport. However there are still other non traditional sports that many Colombians enjoy both as spectators and as participants.

Fútbol

Like many other countries, soccer reigns supreme in Colombia. The glory years for Colombia’s national team were during the 1990’s when they qualified for 3 world cups and again in 2001 after they won the Copa America. Yet for many Colombians, club football is more important than the national team. Although the national team is composed of Colombians, the majority of the players play their soccer in foreign nations and have largely tangential ties to Colombia. 

By contrast, the club teams have strong ties to the local area in which they play.  The majority of the players on the club teams are from that area of the country and also live there, therefore meaning the fans of the team feel a stronger tie to the local teams as they consider it an extension of themselves.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-Lj5SDn86ZbIi.png?alt=media&token=54675a27-8d73-4858-aea7-99ffe5fc8011

Image from Unsplash

Ciclismo

Cycling quickly gained popularity in the 1970s in Colombia when the municipal government chose to close down 120km of the city’s streets to cars for cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians. These pathways are known as ciclovias and are popular in all major Colombia cities. 

On Sunday mornings and national holidays, the ciclovias are reserved for competitive sport and races. Yet throughout the rest of the week, the bikeways are open to encourage locals to commute across the city without causing additional pollution through cars. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-7ZQ24YjbTm5q.png?alt=media&token=845845eb-8edc-42b9-8a06-9f790fc36b6e

Image from Unsplash

Tejo

In 2000, Congress declared the national sport of Colombia. The name of the game originates from its puck, or “” that’s a metal object that’s thrown from about 20 meters to a target. The target consists of mechas or folded triangles containing gunpowder, that explode upon impact. Participants greet each bang and mini explosion with a loud cheer.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-aqjhBnQJb6Vs.png?alt=media&token=03401536-4a33-44c0-be8a-a7a2f662b22a

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Artes Visuales

Contemporary artists of Latin America have completely shaped the modern art movement, and today there are many important artists that exhibit a variety of backgrounds and nationalities.

Jorge Pardo

A Cuban-American that works with sculptures, installations and architecture. He is deeply inspired by contemporary painting and design to make his art.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-GLtd4B6KuKcF.jpeg?alt=media&token=8238d647-2099-4235-a959-b507cca03263

Carlos Cruz-Diez

A Venezuelan artist 🇻🇪 known to be one of the greates innovators of the 10th Century, that made great contributions to Op art (optical art characteritzed by the use of grometric shapes) and kinetic art. His artworks are mostly colorful and filled of "tricks" to eye. He died in 2019.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-aK8Jkzdqpvj8.webp?alt=media&token=5ca6aca1-fac6-477b-a00c-d247703afca1

it is also important to note that, throughout history, many latinx artists made significant contributions to the world of visual arts. Other popular artists include Frida Kahlo, a revolutionary Mexican painter, and Diego Rivera, Kahlo's husband and member of the Mexican communist party. These two artists both revolutionized the meaning of beauty and aesthetics in the west world, in addition to confronting the capitalist system through their artwork and activism.

Strive for Five Vocab 

  • - music style that originated in the Caribbean and has been influenced by hip hop, Latin American, and Caribbean music. Vocals can be sung either rapping or singing and are usually sung in Spanish 

  • - music style popular throughout Brazil and Colombia that frequently uses duos for vocals and has a pop feel

  • - a style of dance that originated in Latin America and involves cultural elements from American Indians, Africans enslaved during colonial times, and Europeans 

  • - soccer

  • - American style football 

  • - bike pathways created in major cities

  • - traditional throwing sport in Colombia

  • - style of art characterized by the use of geometric shapes

Key Terms to Review (15)

Arte óptica

: Arte óptica, also known as Op Art, refers to a style of visual art that uses optical illusions and geometric patterns to create the illusion of movement or depth.

Carlos Cruz-Diez

: Carlos Cruz-Diez was a Venezuelan artist known for his contributions to the Op Art movement. His work focused on exploring the perception of color and its interaction with light.

Ciclovia

: A designated route or street temporarily closed off to motorized vehicles on certain days or times, allowing people to walk, run, bike, skate, or participate in other non-motorized activities safely.

Cumbia

: Cumbia is a popular dance and music style originating from Colombia but also widely enjoyed throughout Latin America. It combines African, Indigenous, and European influences to create an energetic rhythm characterized by percussion instruments such as drums and maracas.

Diego Rivera

: Diego Rivera was a prominent Mexican muralist who depicted scenes from Mexican history and culture in his large-scale murals. He played a significant role in promoting social justice through his artwork.

Frida Kahlo

: Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter known for her self-portraits that explored themes of identity, pain, and femininity. Her unique style combined elements of surrealism and traditional Mexican folk art.

Fútbol

: A popular sport played with a round ball and two teams of eleven players each, where the objective is to score goals by kicking the ball into the opponent's net.

Futbol americano

: A contact sport played with an oval-shaped ball and two teams of eleven players each, where points are scored by advancing the ball into the opponent's end zone or kicking it through their goalposts.

Jorge Pardo

: Jorge Pardo is a Spanish musician known for his mastery of the flute. He has collaborated with various artists across different genres including jazz, flamenco, and world music.

Juanes

: Juanes is a Colombian singer-songwriter who is known for his Latin pop and rock music. He has won multiple Grammy Awards and is recognized for his socially conscious lyrics.

Karol G

: Karol G is a Colombian reggaeton singer and songwriter. She gained international recognition with her hit songs like "Tusa" and "Bichota".

Reggaeton

: Reggaeton is a genre of music that originated in Puerto Rico and combines elements of reggae, hip-hop, and Latin American music. It is characterized by its catchy beats, repetitive lyrics, and danceable rhythms.

Sertaneja

: Sertaneja is a popular genre of Brazilian country music that originated in the countryside regions. It often features heartfelt lyrics about love, nature, and rural life accompanied by acoustic guitars and accordion.

Shakira

: Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter who has achieved international fame for her unique blend of Latin pop, rock, and dance music. She is known for her distinctive voice and energetic performances.

Tejo

: Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport where players throw metal discs at gunpowder-filled targets. The objective is to hit the target and create an explosion.

5.4 Entertainment and Sports

5 min readjanuary 28, 2023

I

Isabela Padilha Vilela

B

Brittany Schwikert

I

Isabela Padilha Vilela

B

Brittany Schwikert

Culture, whether it is in the form of music, visual arts, performing arts or fashion plays an important role in our daily life. Being in contact with one's culture can significantly improve our quality of life. It is a part of our identity, the place where we're from and the experiences we have in this life. Art and entertainment play an important role in individual and collective expression and also provides people with a sense of belonging. 🫂

In this guide, we will explore different aspects of Spanish/latin culture to understand how spanish speaking individuals view the world and enjoy life!

Entertainment and Sports  

When it comes to entertainment in Spanish speaking countries, the first word that comes to mind is ¡⚽FUTBOL⚽! But let’s take a look at Colombia where there’s more ways to have fun than just soccer. 

Música

Tons of famous artists call Colombia home. , Carlos Vives, , J Balvin, Maluma, and all trace their roots to Colombia. 

Shakira

is originally from the northern coastal town of Barranquilla and is considered una diosa to Colombia, widely hailed as the Queen of Latin Music. She’s been topping charts since 2001 with her debut of “Whenever, Wherever.” She performed at the 2008 Inauguration for President Barack Obama and with Jennifer Lopez in the 2019 Super Bowl Halftime Show. Not to mention she’s also won 3 Grammy Awards, 12 Latin Grammy Awards, 4 MTV Video Music Awards, and 7 Billboard Music Awards. ¡Andále,

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-I0dPUPLlEgF5.png?alt=media&token=11c6045a-b469-45fc-be14-034ed59dedd5

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Juanes

is a Colombian guitarist, singer, songwriter and activist widely known throughout the world. has used his platform to raise awareness of issues plaguing Colombia through condemning the violence and corruption in his home country. In 2006 began his own philanthropic foundation dedicated to eradicating Colombia’s land mines and supporting victims of land mine accidents. He continues to be an artist beloved to his fans and to those whose lives he’s been able to positively impact through his foundation, Mi Sangre Foundation. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-JEGQ0fdB1d8T.png?alt=media&token=c4db093b-225c-422b-80c8-e76d487f6b60

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Karol G

Carolina Girlado Navarro is a Colombian singer and songwriter. Her music blends both and Latin trap, but can also be known to include reggae and . In 2018, she won the Latin Grammy Award for Best New Artist and has collaborated with some of Latin America’s biggest stars, such as J Balvin, Daddy Yankee, and Ozuna. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-q1Lu0H82nJQW.png?alt=media&token=9c3fb1f9-e2b5-4b36-b928-97c3af9f847c

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Baile

The most well known and popular style of dance in Colombia is la . The dance is said to have originated during Colombia’s struggle for independence in the 1820’s. Given Colombia’s diverse population infuses rhythms and cultural components from American Indians, Europeans, and Africans enslaved during colonial times. 

Cumbia

Colombian’s diversity can be seen through this specific type of dance. Many musicians, dancers, and historians believe ’s percussion came from African influence, and the use of the cane flute came from the Native Colombian indigenous population, while the traditional dress was brought over by the Spaniards. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-bytSegDPI21j.png?alt=media&token=bb49a3ba-69de-4c93-a595-ac8561969260

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Deportes

In nearly all Spanish-speaking countries, soccer (or ) is considered the national sport. However there are still other non traditional sports that many Colombians enjoy both as spectators and as participants.

Fútbol

Like many other countries, soccer reigns supreme in Colombia. The glory years for Colombia’s national team were during the 1990’s when they qualified for 3 world cups and again in 2001 after they won the Copa America. Yet for many Colombians, club football is more important than the national team. Although the national team is composed of Colombians, the majority of the players play their soccer in foreign nations and have largely tangential ties to Colombia. 

By contrast, the club teams have strong ties to the local area in which they play.  The majority of the players on the club teams are from that area of the country and also live there, therefore meaning the fans of the team feel a stronger tie to the local teams as they consider it an extension of themselves.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-Lj5SDn86ZbIi.png?alt=media&token=54675a27-8d73-4858-aea7-99ffe5fc8011

Image from Unsplash

Ciclismo

Cycling quickly gained popularity in the 1970s in Colombia when the municipal government chose to close down 120km of the city’s streets to cars for cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians. These pathways are known as ciclovias and are popular in all major Colombia cities. 

On Sunday mornings and national holidays, the ciclovias are reserved for competitive sport and races. Yet throughout the rest of the week, the bikeways are open to encourage locals to commute across the city without causing additional pollution through cars. 

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-7ZQ24YjbTm5q.png?alt=media&token=845845eb-8edc-42b9-8a06-9f790fc36b6e

Image from Unsplash

Tejo

In 2000, Congress declared the national sport of Colombia. The name of the game originates from its puck, or “” that’s a metal object that’s thrown from about 20 meters to a target. The target consists of mechas or folded triangles containing gunpowder, that explode upon impact. Participants greet each bang and mini explosion with a loud cheer.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-aqjhBnQJb6Vs.png?alt=media&token=03401536-4a33-44c0-be8a-a7a2f662b22a

Image from Wikimedia Commons

Artes Visuales

Contemporary artists of Latin America have completely shaped the modern art movement, and today there are many important artists that exhibit a variety of backgrounds and nationalities.

Jorge Pardo

A Cuban-American that works with sculptures, installations and architecture. He is deeply inspired by contemporary painting and design to make his art.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-GLtd4B6KuKcF.jpeg?alt=media&token=8238d647-2099-4235-a959-b507cca03263

Carlos Cruz-Diez

A Venezuelan artist 🇻🇪 known to be one of the greates innovators of the 10th Century, that made great contributions to Op art (optical art characteritzed by the use of grometric shapes) and kinetic art. His artworks are mostly colorful and filled of "tricks" to eye. He died in 2019.

https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-aK8Jkzdqpvj8.webp?alt=media&token=5ca6aca1-fac6-477b-a00c-d247703afca1

it is also important to note that, throughout history, many latinx artists made significant contributions to the world of visual arts. Other popular artists include Frida Kahlo, a revolutionary Mexican painter, and Diego Rivera, Kahlo's husband and member of the Mexican communist party. These two artists both revolutionized the meaning of beauty and aesthetics in the west world, in addition to confronting the capitalist system through their artwork and activism.

Strive for Five Vocab 

  • - music style that originated in the Caribbean and has been influenced by hip hop, Latin American, and Caribbean music. Vocals can be sung either rapping or singing and are usually sung in Spanish 

  • - music style popular throughout Brazil and Colombia that frequently uses duos for vocals and has a pop feel

  • - a style of dance that originated in Latin America and involves cultural elements from American Indians, Africans enslaved during colonial times, and Europeans 

  • - soccer

  • - American style football 

  • - bike pathways created in major cities

  • - traditional throwing sport in Colombia

  • - style of art characterized by the use of geometric shapes

Key Terms to Review (15)

Arte óptica

: Arte óptica, also known as Op Art, refers to a style of visual art that uses optical illusions and geometric patterns to create the illusion of movement or depth.

Carlos Cruz-Diez

: Carlos Cruz-Diez was a Venezuelan artist known for his contributions to the Op Art movement. His work focused on exploring the perception of color and its interaction with light.

Ciclovia

: A designated route or street temporarily closed off to motorized vehicles on certain days or times, allowing people to walk, run, bike, skate, or participate in other non-motorized activities safely.

Cumbia

: Cumbia is a popular dance and music style originating from Colombia but also widely enjoyed throughout Latin America. It combines African, Indigenous, and European influences to create an energetic rhythm characterized by percussion instruments such as drums and maracas.

Diego Rivera

: Diego Rivera was a prominent Mexican muralist who depicted scenes from Mexican history and culture in his large-scale murals. He played a significant role in promoting social justice through his artwork.

Frida Kahlo

: Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter known for her self-portraits that explored themes of identity, pain, and femininity. Her unique style combined elements of surrealism and traditional Mexican folk art.

Fútbol

: A popular sport played with a round ball and two teams of eleven players each, where the objective is to score goals by kicking the ball into the opponent's net.

Futbol americano

: A contact sport played with an oval-shaped ball and two teams of eleven players each, where points are scored by advancing the ball into the opponent's end zone or kicking it through their goalposts.

Jorge Pardo

: Jorge Pardo is a Spanish musician known for his mastery of the flute. He has collaborated with various artists across different genres including jazz, flamenco, and world music.

Juanes

: Juanes is a Colombian singer-songwriter who is known for his Latin pop and rock music. He has won multiple Grammy Awards and is recognized for his socially conscious lyrics.

Karol G

: Karol G is a Colombian reggaeton singer and songwriter. She gained international recognition with her hit songs like "Tusa" and "Bichota".

Reggaeton

: Reggaeton is a genre of music that originated in Puerto Rico and combines elements of reggae, hip-hop, and Latin American music. It is characterized by its catchy beats, repetitive lyrics, and danceable rhythms.

Sertaneja

: Sertaneja is a popular genre of Brazilian country music that originated in the countryside regions. It often features heartfelt lyrics about love, nature, and rural life accompanied by acoustic guitars and accordion.

Shakira

: Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter who has achieved international fame for her unique blend of Latin pop, rock, and dance music. She is known for her distinctive voice and energetic performances.

Tejo

: Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport where players throw metal discs at gunpowder-filled targets. The objective is to hit the target and create an explosion.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.