Argentina's Cumbia Queen: A Musical Legacy Born from Migration and Cultural Exchange

Argentina's Cumbia Queen: A Musical Legacy Born from Migration BUENOS AIRES, Argentina - The cumbia music scene in Argentina has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s, when the University of Buenos Aires attracted foreign students who brought their musical talents with them. One such student was Mario Castellón, a Costarrican musician who formed Los Wawancó, one of the most iconic and influential cumbia bands in Argentina. According to Luciano Rombolá, host of the popular radio and digital show "Cumbia de la Pura," cumbia music is deeply rooted in the country's migration history. "You can't analyze the story of this cumbia phenomenon without thinking about migration," he said. "The University of Buenos Aires was a magnet for foreign students, who came to study for free and brought their musical traditions with them." One such tradition was the cumbia, a genre that originated in Colombia but gained popularity in Argentina through the efforts of bands like Los Wawancó. The band's formation marked the beginning of a new era in Argentine music, one that blended traditional rhythms with modern styles. Melissa Lobos, lead singer of the dissident band Cachitas Now!, has been influenced by this legacy. "Growing up, I was surrounded by cumbia music," she said. "It's a genre that speaks to the heart and soul of Argentina." The cumbia scene in Argentina has continued to evolve over the years, with new bands and artists emerging to carry on the tradition. However, the genre faces challenges in the modern era, including competition from other musical styles and the impact of digitalization. Despite these challenges, the cumbia remains an integral part of Argentine culture, a testament to the country's rich migration history and its ability to blend traditions with modernity. As Rombolá noted, "Cumbia is not just a genre of music; it's a way of life." Background: The University of Buenos Aires was founded in 1821 and has since become one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Argentina. In the 1950s, the university attracted foreign students from around the world, including Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Costa Rica. These students brought with them their musical traditions, which blended with local styles to create a unique sound that would come to define Argentine cumbia. Additional Perspectives: Cumbia music has also been influenced by other cultural traditions in Argentina. "Cumbia is not just about the music; it's about the dance, the culture, and the people," said Lobos. "It's a way of expressing ourselves and connecting with our heritage." The cumbia scene in Argentina has also faced challenges related to copyright and intellectual property. In recent years, there have been efforts to protect the rights of musicians and composers, including the creation of a national registry for musical works. Current Status: Today, the cumbia remains a popular genre in Argentina, with new bands and artists emerging all the time. However, the genre faces challenges related to digitalization and competition from other styles. Despite these challenges, the cumbia continues to thrive, thanks to its rich history and cultural significance. As Rombolá noted, "Cumbia is not just a genre of music; it's a way of life." Next Developments: In the coming years, there are plans to create a national museum dedicated to the history of cumbia music in Argentina. The museum will feature exhibits on the genre's origins, its evolution over time, and its impact on Argentine culture. Additionally, there are efforts underway to promote cumbia music globally, through festivals and concerts that showcase the genre's unique sound and style. *Reporting by Npr.*