Son

Definition

Son is a genre of music that originated in Cuba and blends African and Spanish influences, characterized by its distinct rhythmic patterns and instrumentation. It incorporates elements like the clave rhythm, the use of brass and percussion instruments, and often features call-and-response vocals. The impact of son extends beyond Cuba, influencing various world music genres and shaping the global perception of Latin music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Son emerged in the late 19th century in Eastern Cuba, specifically in the region of Son Cubano.
2. The genre is recognized for its specific structure, typically featuring verses followed by a chorus that utilizes call-and-response techniques.
3. Instruments commonly associated with son include the tres (a three-course guitar), trumpet, bongos, maracas, and double bass.
4. Son laid the groundwork for the development of other popular Latin genres, particularly salsa, which gained international popularity in the 1970s.
5. The rhythm of son is often performed using the clave pattern, which helps create its distinctive feel and drives the music forward.

Review Questions

• How did son influence the development of other Latin music genres?
  • Son significantly influenced the creation and evolution of several Latin music genres, most notably salsa. Its rhythmic structure, instrumentation, and vocal techniques were integrated into salsa, allowing it to flourish as a popular dance music style. The combination of son’s African and Spanish elements laid a foundation that other genres built upon, making son a crucial component of Latin music's expansion into global culture.
• Discuss the role of clave rhythm in the structure of son and its importance in other musical styles.
  • The clave rhythm serves as a fundamental element in the structure of son music, providing both a rhythmic framework and a means of maintaining tempo throughout performances. This two-bar pattern is essential not just in son but also in various other Afro-Cuban styles like salsa and rumba. The clave's presence helps unify different instruments and vocal parts within these genres, making it a crucial aspect of their performance dynamics.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of son in relation to its African roots and its impact on global music trends.
  • Son exemplifies the fusion of African musical traditions with Spanish influences, showcasing how cultural exchange can lead to innovative art forms. Its rhythmic complexity and vibrant instrumentation reflect African heritage while also appealing to broader audiences through melodic accessibility. As son spread beyond Cuba, it contributed to global music trends by inspiring artists worldwide to incorporate its elements into various genres, thus highlighting its role as a bridge between cultures and solidifying its place in world music history.

Related terms

Salsa: A popular dance music genre that originated in New York City, heavily influenced by son, jazz, and other Latin music styles.

Clave: A rhythmic pattern used in Afro-Cuban music, fundamental to son and many other Latin genres, acting as the structural backbone.

Rumba: A Cuban musical genre with African roots that emphasizes dance and percussion, often seen as a precursor to son.