Son

Definition

Son is a traditional Cuban music genre that originated in the late 19th century and combines elements of Spanish and African musical styles. This lively and rhythmic genre is characterized by its use of instruments like the guitar, trumpet, and claves, creating an infectious sound that has played a significant role in the development of Latin music and influenced various other genres, such as salsa and jazz.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Son emerged in Eastern Cuba in the late 1800s, particularly in the regions of Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo.
2. The music of son often features a call-and-response format, which creates a dialogue between singers and musicians, enhancing its interactive nature.
3. Son is typically performed in small ensembles known as 'son grupos', which usually consist of a vocalist, guitarists, percussionists, and horn players.
4. The dance style associated with son includes movements that are energetic and expressive, often characterized by intricate footwork and body movements.
5. Son has significantly influenced the development of other Latin genres, especially salsa, which emerged later as a fusion of son with other musical influences from New York City.

Review Questions

• How does son reflect the cultural blend of Spanish and African influences in its musical structure?
  • Son exemplifies the fusion of Spanish and African musical traditions through its use of instruments, rhythms, and song forms. The Spanish guitar melodies intertwine with African rhythmic patterns, particularly the clave rhythm, creating a unique sound that highlights both cultural heritages. Additionally, the call-and-response vocal style showcases the interactive nature typical of African music while incorporating the lyrical storytelling aspect found in Spanish music.
• In what ways did son contribute to the development of salsa music in the 20th century?
  • Son laid the groundwork for salsa music by introducing essential rhythmic patterns and instrumentation that became integral to salsa's sound. As Cuban musicians migrated to New York City, they brought son with them, where it evolved by blending with jazz and other musical styles. This cross-pollination enriched salsa with complex harmonies and improvisational elements while maintaining its roots in son’s vibrant rhythms and structures.
• Evaluate the significance of son within the broader context of Afro-Cuban music's evolution and its impact on global music trends.
  • Son's significance within Afro-Cuban music lies in its role as a foundational genre that paved the way for numerous other styles, influencing not only Latin American music but also global music trends. As son gained popularity, it contributed to the rise of genres like salsa and bolero, which further spread Cuban musical traditions worldwide. The incorporation of son into jazz and contemporary music reflects its adaptability and enduring legacy, showcasing how Afro-Cuban rhythms have enriched various musical landscapes across cultures.

Related terms

Rumba: A traditional Cuban dance and music genre that emphasizes complex rhythms and is often accompanied by call-and-response singing.

Clave: A rhythmic pattern used in Afro-Cuban music, which serves as a foundational element for many musical styles, including son.

Salsa: A popular dance music genre that originated in the Caribbean, heavily influenced by son and incorporating elements from jazz, rock, and other styles.