Rumba

History

The Rumba was at the beginning of the Cuban and Latin American dance crazes. Danced to music inspired by African rhythms and Spanish melodies, the Americanized Rumba was the basis for the Mambo and Cha Cha. In the U.S., Rumba rhythms have found their way into Country Western, Blues, Rock & Roll, and other popular forms of music.

Characteristics

The distinctive hop movement of Rumba, called the Cuban Motion, is one of the most important elements of this dance. Introduced in the Rumba, it is an important styling element in a number of popular Latin American dances.