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10.4 The global spread of Latin jazz

3 min readjuly 25, 2024

Latin jazz fused Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz harmonies in the 1940s-1950s. It spread globally, influencing musicians in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. This fusion sparked new styles like and .

Migration and played a key role in Latin jazz's growth. Cuban and Puerto Rican musicians in the U.S. shaped the genre, while international tours and festivals exposed it to global audiences, fostering cultural dialogue and innovation.

Global Dissemination and Impact of Latin Jazz

Global spread of Latin jazz

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  • Origins of Latin jazz fused Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz harmonies developed in New York City and Havana during 1940s-1950s (, )

  • Spread to Europe popularized Latin jazz in Spain and France influenced European jazz musicians to incorporate Latin elements (, )

  • Latin jazz in Asia sparked Japanese Latin jazz scene and inspired Filipino musicians to blend local styles with Latin rhythms (, )

  • African adoption of Latin jazz embraced by West African countries fused with local rhythms and instruments (, )

  • South American developments birthed Brazilian bossa nova and Argentine tango jazz related to Latin jazz evolution (, )

Migration and cultural exchange

  • Cuban musicians in United States influenced American jazz scene through collaborations with American jazz artists (, )

  • Puerto Rican migration to New York developed Nuyorican music culture contributed to salsa and Latin jazz (, )

  • European tours by Latin jazz musicians exposed European audiences to the genre inspired local musicians to explore Latin rhythms (, )

  • Cultural diplomacy and jazz ambassadors promoted Latin jazz as part of American culture through U.S. State Department-sponsored tours (Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck)

  • International music festivals provided platform for cultural exchange exposed Latin jazz to global audiences (, )

Notable Latin jazz scenes worldwide

  • United States
    • New York nurtured influential artists (, Eddie Palmieri)
    • Miami became hub for Cuban expatriate musicians (Arturo Sandoval, )
  • Cuba
    • Havana remained epicenter of innovation (, )
  • Brazil
    • Rio de Janeiro produced bossa nova and samba jazz fusion artists (, )
  • Spain
    • Barcelona emerged as European Latin jazz hotspot (, )
  • Japan
    • Tokyo developed vibrant Latin jazz scene with local flavor (, )
  • United Kingdom
    • London fostered diverse Latin jazz community (, )

Cultural significance of Latin jazz

  • Cross-cultural understanding bridged different musical traditions promoted cultural diversity and dialogue

  • Identity and representation expressed Latino culture in global contexts empowered Latin American musicians

  • Fusion and innovation catalyzed new musical styles and techniques influenced contemporary world music (, )

  • Social commentary reflected social and political issues provided platform for expressing cultural pride and resistance

  • Economic impact grew Latin jazz music industry boosted tourism related to Latin jazz festivals and venues

  • Educational value introduced Latin rhythms in music education promoted cultural literacy through music appreciation and performance

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.

© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
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