By the early 1900s, genres like in Cuba, Cumbia in Colombia, and Merengue in the Dominican Republic were the "folk music" of the countryside. They were often looked down upon by high society until they began migrating to the cities. 2. The Golden Age (1930s – 1950s)

As radio and cinema spread, the music grew "bigger." In Cuba, the era arrived. Legendary figures like Arsenio Rodríguez added piano and multiple trumpets to the Son, creating the blueprint for modern dance music.

took the Mambo to Mexico City and Hollywood, making "Tropical" a global obsession.