Candombe and tango are two distinct music styles with different origins, but they have had an important and complex relationship throughout their history in Argentina and Uruguay.

Candombe is a traditional Afro-Uruguayan music style that originated in the 19th century in Montevideo, Uruguay, and is characterized by its complex rhythms and African influences. On the other hand, tango is a music style that originated in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina, around the same time and is characterized by its romantic melodies and intricate dance steps.

While candombe and tango are distinct music styles, they share some common roots. Both were born in the urban working-class neighborhoods of the Rio de la Plata region (which includes Montevideo and Buenos Aires), and both were heavily influenced by the cultural mixing of different ethnic groups, including African, European, and indigenous people.

Over time, candombe and tango began to influence each other in various ways. Candombe rhythms were incorporated into some early tango music, and some tango dancers adopted the fluid, rhythmic movements of candombe dancing into their own dance style. Additionally, some of the early tango lyrics referenced the African heritage of candombe.

In the mid-20th century, a fusion of candombe and tango emerged known as “murga porteña.” This style incorporated the rhythms and instruments of candombe into tango music, creating a unique hybrid style that is still performed today.

Overall, while candombe and tango are distinct music styles with different origins, they have had an important and complex relationship throughout their shared history in Argentina and Uruguay, with each influencing the other in various ways.