México: Los DJs de cumbia del barrio
In a vibrant display of cultural heritage, the city of Monterrey in northern México has emerged as a hub for traditional cumbia music, with local DJs keeping the genre alive and thriving. According to Karla Gachet and Ivan Kashinsky's reportage, "Cumbia across Latin America," a six-country visual documentary series, México is now considered the epicenter of cumbia culture.
The story begins in Colombia, where cumbia originated, but it was in Monterrey that the genre gained new life. On August 12, 2023, a birthday party for Brenda Cazárez in the Privada Cusco neighborhood featured Sonido Colombia, a local DJ group, playing to a packed crowd of dancing revelers. The scene was captured by Kashinsky's photographs, which showcased the infectious energy and joy that cumbia embodies.
The report highlights the unique blend of cultures in Monterrey, where Colombian traditions have merged with Mexican flair to create a distinctive sound. "In the midst of the mountains of Monterrey, there is a little Colombia, a royal Colombia," Gachet notes. This cultural fusion has given birth to a new wave of cumbia enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving and promoting this beloved genre.
According to local DJs, the key to keeping cumbia alive lies in its ability to connect people across generations and cultures. "Cumbia is not just music; it's a way of life," says one DJ, who wishes to remain anonymous. "It brings people together, transcending borders and languages."
The documentary series, which spans six countries and several years, provides an intimate look at the lives of cumbia enthusiasts, from musicians to dancers, and highlights their struggles and triumphs in keeping this traditional music alive.
As the popularity of cumbia continues to grow, its impact on Mexican culture is undeniable. "México has taken cumbia to new heights," says Gachet. "It's a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create a sense of community."
The future of cumbia in México looks bright, with local DJs and musicians continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of this iconic genre. As one DJ puts it, "Cumbia is not just a style of music; it's a way of life that will continue to thrive for generations to come."
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and NPR News.
