3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

Popular music is central to Latin American cultural practices. From Carmen Miranda to Bad Bunny, from Carlos Gardel to Karol G, this course examines the works of numerous performers and songwriters who have defined the Latin American songbook, elevating it to one of the most sophisticated art forms in the Americas. We will explore a vast range of musical genres that constitute the diverse soundscape of Latin American popular music, from Argentine Tango and Brazilian Samba to Colombian Salsa, Dominican Dembow, and Son Cubano. Our exploration will encompass its Afro-diasporic, Indigenous, and European origins, the impact of the cultural industry, and its intersections with the region’s social and political history. We will delve into the stories behind the songs, reflecting on their instrumental roles in shaping identity, citizenship, sensibility, political dissent, and resistance. Through listening sessions, critical and theoretical texts, and open discussions, participants will enhance their understanding of the musical and artistic forces that have shaped Latin American history and culture.