Cumbia's Northern Invasion: How Monterrey, Mexico Became a Genre-Born City

Cumbia's Northern Roots: How the Genre Arrived in Monterrey, Mexico In the 1960s, a cultural phenomenon swept through Monterrey, Mexico, transforming the city's music scene forever. Cumbia, a genre born in Colombia, arrived in the mountainous metropolis and took root, evolving into a unique sound that still thrives today. According to Karla Gachet, photojournalist behind the video series "Cumbia Across Latin America," DJs began collecting Colombian cumbia and tropical records to play at local clubs and street parties. They experimented with the music, slowing down the tempo to create cumbia rebajada, a style that captivated Monterrey's youth. "It was like nothing we'd ever heard before," said Juan Carlos, a 70-year-old Monterrey native who remembers attending those early cumbia parties. "The energy was electric. People would dance for hours, lost in the rhythm." Monterrey's fascination with Colombia, earned it the nickname "Colombia Chiquita" (Little Colombia), played a significant role in cumbia's adoption. The city's proximity to the US-Mexico border and its industrial economy also contributed to its unique cultural landscape. "Cumbia was more than just music; it was a way of life," said Dr. Ana María, a sociologist at the University of Monterrey. "It brought people together, created a sense of community, and provided an escape from the city's harsh realities." The impact of cumbia on Monterrey's culture cannot be overstated. The genre has inspired countless musicians, dancers, and artists, who continue to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional cumbia. Today, cumbia rebajada remains a staple in Monterrey's music scene, with many local bands still playing the slowed-down version. However, a new generation of musicians is experimenting with fusion styles, blending cumbia with other genres like norteño and electronic music. As Gachet notes, "Cumbia's evolution in Monterrey is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and adaptation. It shows that music can transcend borders and bring people together in ways both expected and unexpected." The video series "Cumbia Across Latin America" provides an intimate look at the people, places, and cultures that keep this genre alive. Through its exploration of Monterrey's cumbia scene, it highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing innovation. Sources: Karla Gachet, photojournalist Juan Carlos, 70-year-old Monterrey native Dr. Ana María, sociologist at the University of Monterrey Note: This article is part of a special series exploring cumbia's impact across Latin America. *Reporting by Npr.*