Argentina's Cumbia Queen Born from International Rhythms and Migration

Argentina's Cumbia Queen: A Musical Phenomenon Born from Migration BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - In the 1950s, the University of Buenos Aires welcomed international students who could study for free. Among them was Mario Castellón, a Costa Rican musician who joined forces with Colombian, Peruvian, and Chilean classmates to form Los Wawancó, one of Argentina's most iconic cumbia bands. This musical phenomenon has been dubbed "la música tropical del fin del mundo" (tropical music from the end of the world) by Luciano Rombolá, host of the popular radio and digital show Cumbia de la Pura. According to Rombolá, understanding the history of cumbia in Argentina requires considering the role of migration. "Cumbia is not just a genre of music; it's a cultural phenomenon that reflects the diversity of our country," said Rombolá. "The arrival of international students and musicians brought new sounds and styles to Argentina, which eventually merged with local traditions to create this unique musical identity." Melissa Lobos, vocalist for the band Cachitas Now!, echoed Rombolá's sentiments during a performance at Ciudad de Gatos in La Plata, Argentina. "Cumbia is a symbol of our country's openness and willingness to absorb different cultures," she said. The success of cumbia in Argentina can be attributed to its ability to bring people together across cultural and social boundaries. As Rombolá noted, "cumbia has become an integral part of Argentine identity, transcending geographical and linguistic differences." In recent years, the popularity of cumbia has led to a resurgence of interest in traditional music and dance. The genre's influence can be seen in contemporary artists such as Cachitas Now!, who blend traditional cumbia with modern styles. As Argentina continues to celebrate its rich cultural heritage, the legacy of Los Wawancó and other pioneering bands remains an essential part of the country's musical identity. "Cumbia is not just a genre; it's a way of life," said Rombolá. "It reminds us of our history, our diversity, and our capacity to create something new and beautiful from different cultures." Background: The University of Buenos Aires' open-door policy for international students in the 1950s laid the groundwork for the development of cumbia in Argentina. This influx of foreign musicians brought with them their own musical traditions, which eventually merged with local styles to create a unique sound. Additional Perspectives: Cumbia's impact on Argentine society extends beyond music. It has also played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between different communities. Current Status and Next Developments: As cumbia continues to evolve, it remains an essential part of Argentina's musical identity. With the rise of new artists and styles, the genre is poised to continue its influence on Argentine culture for years to come. Sources: Luciano Rombolá, host of Cumbia de la Pura Melissa Lobos, vocalist for Cachitas Now! University of Buenos Aires archives This article is part of a special series, "Cumbia across Latin America," which documents the lives and cultures of people who keep this genre alive in six countries. *Reporting by Npr.*