Origin:

Cumbia is a variant of the African Guinean Cumbe music. It originated in Colombia in the early 19th century, when African slaves arrived into what was a Spanish colony at the time. The dance also turned into a courtship ritual. Although originally interpreted with drums and claves, the music was soon "Europeanised" with guitars and accordians added. Apart from Colombia, Cumbia is also quite popular in Mexico and Chile.

Music:

Cumbia rythm is often classified as Salsa, as it is played in 4/4 as well. For this reason, a lot of dancers new to Salsa confuse Cumbia for Salsa. The first beat is a heavy beat and the third and forth beats are accentuated making the beats similar to a "horse-riding" beat.

Dance:

Cumbia was originally a courtship ritual. The dance is traditionally danced with women wearing long skirts that they wave around. They often carry candles as well. The men dance behind the women with one hand behind their back and the other hand holding their hat. The hat is taken on and off with the music.

Latinos NZ Popularity Scale: 2.5/10

Cumbia music is rarely played in Latin clubs in New Zealand and when played is often confused for Salsa music by the untrained ear.