The Case of the Barefoot Latin Paella

Today I am featuring tracks from Cuba and Peru that showcase the strong Spanish roots of local musical styles. 

The first hour today belongs to Cuba, and this is one of those sets where I am playing lots of old timey sounds. In fact, lots of music in this first set dating back to the 30s and 40s. I think it is fascinating to hear this material that formed the early foundation for latin sounds, later evolving into cha-cha-cha, son montuno, salsa, etc.

We will hear from Cuban stars recording in the US in those early days, including the early idol Miguelito Valdes, as well as Cuarteto Caney (the early proving ground for famous bandleader Machito). Good recording equipment and studios were rare in Cuba in those days, so it was common for Cuban musical acts to record in New York. We will also hear son, the classic genre from Cuba's farming communities; in this case, early son pioneers Septeto Nacional de Ignacio Pineiro.

The second hour today moves to Peru, which had it's own blend of Spanish and African musical traditions on the Pacific Coast of the Americas. The Spanish lineage is predominant here, and we will hear music with strong classical and flamenco influences. We will hear several songs today from one of my favorite Peruvian LPs: Tarimba Negra, by the Peruvian legend Chabuca Granda.