Return of the Conga
Marisoul, J. Hernandez, G. Tenorio, P. Hidalgo, Miguel Ramirez, Donaji, Juan Domingo The African roots and influences in Mexico are still somewhat of a mystery to most. Fiercely patriotic citizens boast about Mexico's rich homogenous culture, history, and food, but for some, Mexico's culture is rich in outside influences that have been adapted and remade Mexican. But labels and identity are always far more complex than what you see on the surface. That is why I felt compelled to chat with my friend and local LA musician, Gabriel Tenorio, about his recent cross-cultural/border-crossing project, The Return of the Conga . The conga, aside from being an actual drum, is also an African rhythm that crossed to Southern Mexico via Cuba in the 1800s. While the style flourished and became popular in Cuba in the early part of the 20th century it disappeared in Mexico. The conga is still danced and played in contemporary Cuba and continues to be played throughout the salsa world. ...