History of Bachata: From the Dominican Republic to Dance Floors Worldwide
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This page is a reference translation of the Japanese original (日本語の原文). It has not been checked by a native speaker. Please confirm details with each organizer.
Bachata is a music and dance that is said to have started in the Dominican Republic in the early 1960s. It is explained that Juan Luis Guerra’s 1990 album “Bachata Rosa” made it known around the world.
Bachata, with its sweet guitar sound, is now danced at parties all over the world. But it was not popular from the start.
Born in the Dominican Republic
Bachata is said to have been born in the Dominican Republic in the early 1960s. It was influenced by bolero and son (both music styles that began in Cuba). One account says the first recording dates from 1962.
Many songs are about heartbreak and sad feelings. Bachata was sometimes called “amargue” (bitter feelings).
A time of prejudice
In those days, bachata was seen as the music of poor people who had come to the city. It is said that for a time, people in cities and the middle class looked down on it.
Moving toward international recognition
In 1990, Juan Luis Guerra’s “Bachata Rosa” became a big hit. It is explained that the album won a Grammy Award and made bachata widely known in the Dominican Republic and abroad.
The dance styles spread
As the music became known, the dance styles also spread.
- Dominican style: traditional, with steps that focus on the feet
- Modern: a style with many moves, using turns and other partner combinations
- Sensual: a smooth style that uses big body movements. People often dance close together
Names and ways of dividing the styles differ by school and region. In close styles, caring about your partner is very important (How to Ask for a Dance and How to Say No).
Bachata today
Bachata was once heard in a limited area. Now it is danced all over the world. If you know the differences, you can enjoy its flavor as something different from salsa (Salsa vs. Bachata).
Related articles
Sources
Note: the history here is an overview based on public information such as the sources above. Many details have several theories.
