The Beat is the History
500 Years, 5000 Miles
Perspective: 500 Years, 5000 Miles
The Americas
The cultural imprints of the African diaspora in the Americas spans an Atlantic arc from Virginia’s James River (United States) to the Rio de Plata separating Uruguay and Argentina. Spanning 5000 miles and encapsulating 500 years of Africans in the Americas, this arc delivered the new music forms and cultural expression across the Americas.
The confluence of Africa’s polyrhythms, European harmony (polyphony) and melodies from indigenous populations reverberate into the varied sounds and rhythms across the Americas.
THE BEAT IS THE HISTORY.
Not imitations of European or transplanted African cultures, the new cultures heralded the music of the Americas.
American Music
The roots of modern day ‘American’ (United States) music is traced to the areas connected to the delta regions and rivers of the American deep south.
Think Blues, Gospel, Rock, Jazz and R&B/Soul.
Carribean Beats
Like its northern and southern continental neighbors, Caribbean islands developed varied distinct music and dance styles that are globally known.
Think Calypso, Reggae, Steelpan, Salsa and Ska.
South America Rhythms
The melding of Africa’s polyrhythmic beats, European harmonies, and indigenous influences further evolved iterations and syncopations in South America
Think Candombe, Marcatu, Tango, Rumba, Cumbia, Samba and Corrulau.
Learn about Candombe
This comparsa (group of drummers) was filmed in August 2022 in the neighborhood of Barrio Sur in Montevideo, Uruguay.