Have you ever seen people dancing Salsa? It’s super fun to watch! Salsa is this awesome dance that people all over the world love because it has such cool beats and moves.
I want to tell you about our salsa dance history. It started in the streets of Cuba and became famous everywhere! Isn’t that amazing?
So, how did this exciting dance become so popular? What different cultures helped create it?
In this article, I will tell you about Salsa Dance History: From Afro-Cuban Roots to Global Fame. From its beginnings in Cuba to becoming famous around the world! I will talk about how it changed when it got to New York and how it spread everywhere.
Let’s go back to the late 1800s and early 1900s in Cuba and Puerto Rico to see where Salsa came from. This dance happened when African and European music mixed together.
Salsa has changed a lot over time as people move to different countries and share their cultures and ideas. From the busy streets of Havana to the exciting neighborhoods in New York City, Salsa has kept changing and growing.
Listen to Grupo Niche songs to hear one powerful example of that evolution.
Salsa borrowed moves from many different Latin American dances. It isn’t just about music and dancing; it also shows how society and culture changed for the people who loved it.
Our journey starts with the basic rhythms and moves that created Salsa, which came from the fantastic cultures of Cuba and Puerto Rico.
Let’s get started with
Salsa Dance History: From Afro-Cuban Roots to Global Fame
The Origins of Salsa: A Fusion of Cultures
Salsa dance didn’t emerge overnight if you ask me. Salsa dance was born from a melting pot of cultures, rhythms, and traditions.
The dance and music we now call Salsa are deeply rooted in the Afro-Cuban musical heritage, infused with Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences.
Back in the 1800s and early 1900s, dances called Cuban Son, Rumba, and Mambo laid the groundwork for what would later become Salsa. But what exactly helped create Salsa?
Let me tell you about the beats and cultures that created this awesome dance!
The African and Cuban Rhythms That Shaped Salsa
The heart of Salsa lies in its influence on Afro-Cuban dance, which can be traced back to the rhythms and movements of African slaves brought to the Caribbean during colonial times.
These communities preserved their musical heritage through drumming, call-and-response singing, and polyrhythmic beats, all of which became fundamental to Salsa’s distinct sound.
One of the most influential rhythms was Cuban Son, which merged African percussive beats with Spanish guitar melodies.
Other dance forms, such as Rumba, Guaguancó, and Yoruba religious dances, also played a significant role, contributing to the rich, syncopated movements that define Salsa today.
Without these African and Cuban influences, Salsa as we know it wouldn’t exist. The intense drum patterns, hip movements, and rhythmic footwork stem from these early Afro-Cuban traditions, making them an essential part of Salsa’s DNA.
How Spanish and Indigenous Influences Played a Role
While African rhythms provided the heartbeat of Salsa, Spanish and Indigenous cultures added melody, structure, and storytelling elements that shaped Cuban salsa history.
The Spanish introduced guitar, brass instruments, and poetic lyricism, which blended seamlessly with the Afro-Cuban beats to create a more affluent musical foundation.
Additionally, Indigenous Caribbean groups contributed to Salsa’s rhythmic diversity through traditional salsa instruments like maracas, güiro, and bongos, which enhanced the complexity of Salsa’s sound.
These Indigenous elements, combined with African drumming and Spanish melodies, created a musical dialogue that gave birth to salsa dance’s dynamic and expressive nature.
By the mid-20th century, these influences had fully merged into a distinctive style, setting the stage for Salsa’s expansion into new territories, from the dance clubs of Havana to the bustling streets of New York.
The Roots of Salsa: Cuban and Puerto Rican Influences
As you can see by now, the history of salsa dance is deeply connected with the rich culture of Cuba and Puerto Rico. These Caribbean islands played a crucial role in shaping the foundations of what would eventually become known as Salsa.
The Birth of Son Cubano
El Son Cubano, often considered the precursor to Salsa, emerged in eastern Cuba in the late 19th century. This genre combined Spanish guitar with African percussion, create an unique sound that would become the backbone of salsa music.
The dance associated with El Son Cubano laid the groundwork for many salsa dance techniques still used today.
Afro-Cuban Rumba's Impact
The influence of Afro-Cuban rumba on Salsa is huge! Rumba, with its complex rhythms and sensual movements, brought a distinctly African flavor to the evolving dance form.
Adding rumba elements to Salsa contributed significantly to its expressive and passionate nature, making it a key component in how salsa dancing developed.
Puerto Rican Contributions: Bomba and Plena
Here is something that all my Puerto Rican friends find themselves to be proud of. While Cuban influences dominate the narrative of Salsa’s origins, Puerto Rican dances also played a vital role.
Bomba and Plena, two traditional Puerto Rican dance styles, added their own unique flavors to the salsa mix.
These dances, with their distinctive rhythms and movements, enriched the developing salsa style, especially as Puerto Rican communities in New York City became central to Salsa’s later evolution.
The fusion of these diverse influences, Son Cubano, Afro-Cuban rumba, and Puerto Rican dances, created the fertile ground from which Salsa would grow.
This rich blend of cultural elements set the stage for Salsa’s journey from its Caribbean roots to becoming a global dance phenomenon.
As we explore how Salsa evolved from Cuban son and other Latin dance styles, we begin to appreciate the complex mix of movements and rhythms that make up this beloved dance form.
The history of salsa dance in New York, which we’ll explore in later sections, owes much to these foundational influences from Cuba and Puerto Rico.
Salsa’s Evolution Through the Decades
The evolution of salsa dance is a story of transformation, innovation, and cultural exchange. Salsa evolved from its origins in Cuba and Puerto Rico to become a global dance phenomenon, thanks to musicians, dancers, and social movements that spread its influence around the world.
While its Afro-Cuban roots remained strong, Salsa adapted to new environments, giving rise to distinct styles and interpretations. Each decade brought new developments that shaped Salsa into what it is today.
Let’s explore the key moments in Salsa’s rise to global fame.
The Rise of Mambo and Cha-Cha-Cha
In the 1950s, Mambo burst onto the dance scene, becoming a global sensation. Originating in Cuba, Mambo’s energetic steps and lively music laid crucial groundwork for Salsa.
Shortly after, the Cha-Cha-Cha emerged, adding another layer to the evolving Latin dance styles.
These dances, with their distinctive rhythms and steps, became integral components of what would later be recognized as Salsa.
Salsa in the 1960s and 1970s: The Birth of a Movement
By 1960s, Salsa had begun to take on its modern form, fueled by the migration of Caribbean communities to the United States. Cuban Son, Mambo, and Cha-Cha-Cha had already established a strong Latin dance scene, but it was in the vibrant clubs of New York and Puerto Rico that Salsa indeed took shape.
Musicians like Johnny Pacheco, Willie Colón, and Celia Cruz played a crucial role in defining Salsa’s sound, blending traditional Cuban rhythms with influences from jazz and rock.
Record labels such as Fania Records helped popularize the term “Salsa,” marketing it as a fresh, dynamic genre that represented the Latino identity in the U.S.
At the same time, dancers were refining Salsa footwork and partner techniques, incorporating influences from Mambo, Pachanga, and Afro-Cuban dance.
By the 1970s, Salsa was no longer just a genre; it was a movement spreading across Latin America, Europe, and beyond.
This was when Salsa exploded (the golden years), and great music was created for all of us to enjoy and dance to.
If you want to experience that era firsthand, explore our curated list of songs from salsa’s golden era featuring the Fania All-Stars, Celia Cruz, and the artists who defined the sound.
Love it!
Salsa In New York: The Epicenter of Salsa's Evolution
New York City transformed Salsa forever. The barrios of Spanish Harlem and the Bronx became creative cauldrons where traditional Latin rhythms collided with big-band jazz and urban energy.
Ever heard of Eddie Torres? Known as “The Mambo King,” he was instrumental in developing the structured partner work and on2 timing that defines New York-style salsa today.
He wasn’t alone, legends like Tito Puente and Celia Cruz helped shape both the music and movement that would captivate dancers worldwide.
You could feel the electricity at places like The Palladium Ballroom and, later, The Copacabana.
These weren’t just venues; they were sacred spaces where dancers and musicians showcased their artistry and pushed boundaries. The floor vibrated with innovation.
Fania Records deserves special mention. They didn’t just record music; they championed Salsa as a cultural movement. Their promotion efforts helped Salsa transcend its Latino roots and capture mainstream imagination.
What started in Cuba had found a new home and evolved into something uniquely New York.
The Expansion of Salsa Across Latin America and Beyond
Colombian Salsa:
Known for its fast footwork and energetic spins, this style became a national sensation, with Cali emerging as the salsa capital of the world.
Puerto Rican Salsa:
Similar to New York style but with added Afro-Caribbean influences and complex footwork.
Los Angeles Salsa:
Developed in the 1980s and 1990s, this style emphasized showmanship, dips, and tricks, making it popular for performances.
Beyond Latin America, salsa dance globalization took off in the 1990s and 2000s, with Europe, Asia, and even Africa developing strong salsa communities.
International salsa congresses, festivals, and online dance courses helped introduce the dance to new generations, ensuring its continued evolution and influence worldwide.
Global Spread and Popularization
The evolution of Salsa from a local dance style to a global phenomenon is a testament to its infectious rhythm and cultural appeal. We are going to explores in section the key factors that contributed to Salsa’s worldwide popularity.
Fania Records and the Coining of "Salsa"
Fania Records, founded in 1964 by Jerry Masucci and Johnny Pacheco, played a pivotal role in popularizing salsa music and dance.
Often hailed as the “Motown of Salsa,” Fania Records brought together an incredible roster of talent, including Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Héctor Lavoe, and Willie Colón, Ismael Miranda just to mention some of them.
The term “Salsa” ( if you are wondering ) itself was popularized by Fania Records as a marketing strategy to describe the spicy, electrifying mix of Latin rhythms they were producing.
This catchy label helped unify various Latin music styles under one recognizable brand, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
Salsa’s Journey to International Fame
From its roots in New York City, Salsa quickly spread across the Americas and beyond:
1. Latin America:
Countries like Colombia, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico embraced Salsa, each adding their unique flavor to the dance.
2. Europe:
Salsa gained popularity in countries like Spain, Italy, and the UK, often fused with local dance styles.
3. Asia:
Japan and South Korea developed thriving salsa scenes, with local dancers achieving international recognition.
The rise of international salsa congresses and festivals in the 1990s and 2000s further accelerated Salsa’s global spread, creating a worldwide community of dancers and enthusiasts.
Famous Salsa Dancers and Their Contributions
Eddie Torres
Known as the "Mambo King," Torres pioneered the New York-style salsa (Salsa On2) and has been teaching for over 40 years. His contributions to salsa technique and musicality have influenced dancers worldwide
Frankie Martinez
A renowned choreographer and instructor, Martinez has significantly contributed to the evolution of Mambo and Afro-Latin dance, incorporating elements of Afro-Cuban and modern styles into salsa
Juan Matos
This Dominican-born dancer is famous for his precise footwork and interpretation of Afro-Caribbean music. Matos has become a global ambassador for Salsa, performing and teaching at workshops and festivals worldwide
Barbara Jimenez
A Cuban dancer known for her graceful performances and strong connection to Afro-Cuban culture, Jimenez has contributed to the development of Cuban-style Salsa on the international scene
These dancers, among many others, have not only showcased Salsa’s beauty and complexity but have also played crucial roles in teaching and spreading salsa techniques globally.
The global spread of salsa dance has led to the emergence of distinct regional styles, each with its own characteristics. From the fast footwork of Puerto Rican Salsa to the elegant turns of New York On2, Salsa continues to evolve and adapt, cementing its place as a beloved dance form worldwide
Key Salsa Styles and Their Historical Influence
As salsa dance evolved over the decades, different regions and communities developed their own unique styles, influenced by local culture, music, and dance traditions.
Today, Salsa is danced in various styles worldwide, each with distinct techniques, rhythms, and historical influences. Understanding the different salsa dance styles helps dancers appreciate the rich diversity of Salsa and choose the style that best suits their personal expression.
Below, we explore three of the most influential salsa styles: Cuban Salsa (Casino), New York Salsa (On2), and Los Angeles Salsa (On1).
Cuban Salsa (Casino): The Traditional Root
Cuban Salsa, also known as Casino, is one of the most authentic and original forms of Salsa, staying closest to the dance’s Afro-Cuban roots.
Developed in Havana in the 1950s, this style is deeply connected to Cuban Son, Rumba, and Timba music.
Circular Motion
Unlike linear styles, Cuban Salsa is danced in a circular pattern, with partners moving around each other.
Afro-Cuban Body Movement | Yoruba Dance
Heavy influence from Rumba and Yoruba dances, incorporating natural hip movement, torso isolations, and playful energy.
Frequent Partner Switching
Popular in Rueda de Casino, where multiple couples dance in a synchronized circle, exchanging partners in response to a caller’s commands.
More Relaxed Frame
Compared to other styles and the integration of Afro-Cuban dance elements.
Cuban Salsa remains one of the most social and energetic salsa styles, staying true to its Afro-Cuban dance influence while adapting to modern rhythms like Timba and contemporary Latin music.
Cuban-style Salsa is danced in a circular pattern, with partners often switching positions. This style is popular worldwide and is considered by many to be the most authentic form of Salsa.
New York Salsa (Mambo-Influenced Style)
New York-style Salsa, often called “Salsa On2”, is deeply rooted in Mambo, earning it the nickname “Mambo-style salsa” is characterized by its musicality and elegance: From its roots in New York City, Salsa quickly spread across the Americas and beyond:
Danced On2 Timing
Unlike Cuban Salsa, which emphasizes the first beat, New York salsa is danced on the second beat ("On2"), giving it a smoother, more rhythmic flow.
Linear Movement
Instead of moving in circles, dancers follow a straight slot, creating clean lines and controlled footwork.
Influence of Jazz & Mambo
Includes footwork shines, syncopation, and body isolations inspired by Mambo legends like Eddie Torres ("The Mambo King").
New York salsa gained widespread recognition through salsa congresses, dance schools, and global competitions, solidifying its place as one of the most sophisticated and technical salsa styles in history.
Pioneered by dancers like Eddie Torres, this style has become popular among dancers who appreciate its sophisticated connection to the music.
Los Angeles Salsa: Performance and Showmanship
Los Angeles-style salsa, also known as “Salsa On1,” emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, primarily influenced by Hollywood’s entertainment industry.
Dancers in LA took inspiration from New York Mambo, ballroom dance, and Latin jazz, creating a style that prioritizes flashy, high-energy movements designed for performances.
Key Characteristics:
Danced On1 Timing
The emphasis is on the first beat of the music ("On1"), making it feel more dynamic and forward-driven.
Big, Dramatic Movements
LA-style Salsa includes fast spins, dips, and aerial tricks, and it is influenced by ballroom and Latin dance competitions.
Showcase & Theatrical Elements
This style was shaped by performers like Francisco Vazquez and the Vazquez Brothers, who incorporated cinematic flair into Salsa.
Los Angeles salsa became especially popular in salsa congresses, TV dance shows, and high-profile performances, making it a favorite among dancers who love the excitement and visual appeal of performance salsa. Last but not least
Colombian Salsa
Colombian Salsa, particularly the Cali style, is renowned for its speed and intricate footwork:
- Extremely fast footwork and tight turns
- Minimal upper body movement
- Close partner connection
- Influence from Colombian cumbia and boogaloo
Cali, often called the “World’s Salsa Capital,” has produced many world-class dancers who have popularized this energetic style globally.
Final Thoughts:
As you can see, each salsa dance style tells a different story, reflecting unique cultural and musical influences from around the world. The raw energy of Cuban Salsa hits differently than the sophisticated rhythm of New York Salsa.
And have you seen the show-stopping flair of LA Salsa style? It’s a whole other experience.
These distinct styles emerged as Salsa traveled globally, adapting to local cultures and dance traditions. What’s fascinating is how they’ve all maintained the essence of Salsa while developing their unmistakable character.
Embracing multiple styles not only enhances versatility but also deepens the connection to Salsa’s rich history and evolving global journey, showcasing its enduring rhythm, energy, and expressive power.
Many dancers today don’t limit themselves to just one approach. They embrace multiple styles, appreciating what each brings to the table. It’s like learning different dialects of the same beautiful language—each with its accent and flair.
Exploring these various interpretations doesn’t just make you a more versatile dancer; it also connects you to Salsa’s rich history and global journey.
When you understand where each style comes from, your dancing takes on new depth and meaning. From its Cuban roots to its worldwide variations, Salsa continues to evolve while captivating dancers everywhere.
This incredible adaptability, combined with its rhythm, energy, and expressive power, keeps Salsa thriving across continents and generations.
The Cultural Significance of Salsa Today
Salsa has transcended its origins as a dance form to become a powerful cultural phenomenon, influencing music, fashion, and social interactions worldwide. Its impact extends beyond the dance floor, shaping identities and bringing people together across cultural boundaries.
Today, Salsa’s cultural significance extends beyond Latin America, influencing dance communities, competitions, and even other dance styles.
Whether performed socially, competitively, or professionally, Salsa continues to powerfully shape the global dance landscape.
Salsa as a Symbol of Latin Identity
For many Latinos, Salsa is not just a dance; it is a way of life that embodies their culture’s rhythms, struggles, and celebrations. Salsa music carries stories of migration, love, and resilience, often reflecting the history and emotions of the people who created it.
Let me tell you some of them:
Preserving Tradition
Salsa is a cultural bridge, connecting younger generations to their heritage through music, dance, and storytelling.
Expression Of Heritage
For many Latinos, Salsa represents a connection to their roots and a celebration of their cultural heritage.
Cultural Pride
The global popularity of Salsa has instilled a sense of pride in Latin American communities worldwide.
A Unifying Force
Across Latin America and beyond, Salsa brings together communities, fostering a shared sense of pride and belonging.
A Global Representation Of Latin Culture
Salsa festivals, concerts, and dance events showcase the richness of Latin identity, introducing the world to its rhythms and traditions.
Even now, Salsa continues to evolve; it remains a powerful emblem of Latin identity, giving voice to its people and ensuring their stories are told through movement and music.
Salsa in Social Dance and Competitions
Salsa as a Social Dance
Salsa thrives in dance clubs, festivals, and Latin nights, where dancers of all skill levels come together to share their passion.
Social Salsa:
– Encourages self-expression and improvisation.
– Fosters a sense of community and connection.
– Helps dancers build confidence and rhythm on the dance floor.
Salsa in Competitions
With the rise of salsa dance competitions, the dance has evolved into a highly technical and performance-driven art form.
• World Salsa Championships – One of the most prestigious international competitions where top dancers showcase their skill, precision, and creativity.
• Salsa Congresses & Festivals—Global events featuring workshops, performances, and social dancing that help spread Salsa’s influence.
• Competitive Styles – Salsa On1, On2, and even fusion styles are judged based on musicality, technique, and stage presence.
Whether dancing for fun or competition, Salsa continues to be a thriving and evolving art form, uniting people across cultures and skill levels.
The Influence of Salsa on Other Dance Forms
Salsa’s Influence on Latin Dance Styles
•Bachata & Merengue – Many bachata and merengue dancers incorporate salsa-style turn patterns and footwork, creating cross-genre versatility.
•Zouk & Kizomba – These dances have adapted Salsa’s fluid body movements and partner connection techniques.
•Reggaeton & Urban Latin Dance – Salsa’s rhythmic foundation has influenced Latin urban dance styles, blending traditional and contemporary moves.
Salsa’s Crossover Into Other Genres
•Ballroom & Latin Dance – Competitive Latin dance styles like Cha-Cha and Rumba often include salsa-inspired movements.
•Hip-Hop & Jazz Fusion – Salsa’s energy and sharp footwork have been incorporated into commercial dance performances.
•Afro-Latin Dance Trends – Many Afro-Latin styles, including Afro-Cuban Rumba, continue to shape Salsa’s evolution.
Famous Salsa Players Who Shaped History
The evolution of Salsa wouldn’t be complete without the iconic figures who shaped its music and dance. From legendary performers to influential musicians, these individuals played a crucial role in popularizing Salsa worldwide.
Their artistry, innovation, and dedication transformed Salsa from a regional dance into a global phenomenon.
Two stand out among the most influential figures in salsa history: Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa, and Johnny Pacheco, a pioneer of salsa music. However, do not be mistaken; there are many others who contributed to the formation of Salsa.
Their contributions continue to inspire dancers and musicians today.
Celia Cruz: The Queen of Salsa
Celia Cruz was more than just a singer. She was the voice and spirit of Salsa, earning her the title “La Reina de la Salsa” (The Queen of Salsa). Cruz revolutionized Latin music with a career spanning over five decades, bringing Salsa to mainstream audiences worldwide.
Key Contributions:
- Powerful & Iconic Voice – Her energetic, passionate vocals became the soundtrack of Salsa, inspiring dancers and musicians alike.
- Timeless Salsa Anthems – Songs like “Quimbara,” “La Vida es un Carnaval,” and “Ríe y Llora” remain salsa classics.
- Breaking Barriers – As a Cuban-American female artist, she dominated a male-dominated genre, paving the way for future Latin artists.
- Signature Style & Stage Presence – Her extravagant outfits, wigs, and the signature phrase “¡Azúcar!” made her one of the most recognizable Latin music figures.
Celia Cruz’s legacy continues to thrive. Her music is still played in salsa clubs, competitions, and dance festivals around the world. Her voice and energy remain an essential part of salsa history.
Johnny Pacheco: A Pioneer of Salsa Music
If Celia Cruz was the Queen of Salsa, then Johnny Pacheco was one of its greatest architects. As a musician, composer, and producer, Pacheco was one of the salsa music pioneers who shaped the genre’s sound and global identity.
Key Contributions:
- Founder of Fania Records – In 1964, he co-founded Fania Records, the most influential salsa label, which helped launch the careers of Héctor Lavoe, Willie Colón, and RubénRubén Blades.
- Creator of the Modern Salsa Sound – Pacheco blended Afro-Cuban rhythms, Mambo, and jazz to create what we now recognize as Salsa.
- Innovator of the “Salsa” Name – While Salsa existed before, Pacheco helped popularize the term, branding the music and dance under one name.
- Legendary Performer & Bandleader – His work with Fania All-Stars brought Salsa to international stages, including Madison Square Garden and Africa’s Zaire 74 festival.
Pacheco’s vision and innovation transformed Salsa into a global movement, ensuring that Latin music and dance remain dominant worldwide.
Willie Colon: A Salsa Music Legend
Producer, trombone player, composer, and bandleader Willie Colón is one of the pioneers of Latin American music.
Despite initial criticism, Colón’s album El Malo became known as one of the first albums to feature the “New York Sound,” which sparked a renewed interest in Latin music during the 1970s.
To explore how Willie Colón shaped salsa through his innovative arrangements, social commentary, and collaborations with legends like Héctor Lavoe, read our dedicated profile on Willie Colón.
Colon has been instrumental in the careers of such Latin musicians as RubénRubén Blades, who first sang with Colon’s band in 1975, and Celia Cruz, for whom Colon has produced such albums as Only They Could Have Done This Album in 1977 and the highly successful duet album Celia & Willie in 1981.
Career highlights:
- Pioneering Latin American music producer, trombonist, composer, and bandleader
- Created the influential “New York Sound” with his album “El Malo.”
- Instrumental in launching and advancing the careers of Latin music stars, including Rubén Blades, Celia Cruz, and Héctor Lavoe
- Produced numerous successful albums for various Latin artists
- Received 11 Grammy nominations and one Grammy award
- Named Musician, Producer, and Trombone Player of the Year in 1978 by Latin New York
Their contributions continue to inspire dancers, musicians, and fans today, proving that Salsa is more than just a dance. It’s a legacy of passion, rhythm, and culture.
In Conclusion
The history of salsa dance in New York plays a pivotal role in this story, as the city became a melting pot where Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz, and urban energy merged to create a vibrant and enduring dance form.
Blending these influences, Salsa has given rise to diverse styles like Cuban, LA, Colombian, and New York On2, proving its adaptability and timeless appeal. The history of salsa dance in New York is particularly significant, as it was here that the iconic New York style emerged, characterized by its smooth, linear movements and emphasis on musicality.
Beyond the dance floor, Salsa symbolizes Latin identity, cultural exchange, and unity. It keeps evolving through festivals, social media, and local communities while staying true to its rhythmic heart. The history of salsa dance in New York continues to inspire dancers worldwide, reminding us of the power of cultural fusion and artistic innovation.
If you’re inspired to start your Salsa journey, remember: every pro was once a beginner. If you’re inspired to start your Salsa journey, remember: every pro was once a beginner.
Master the basics, feel the music, and find your community, and you’ll soon be part of this vibrant global phenomenon. If the history feels rich but overwhelming, our guide on where to start with salsa music breaks down the essential rhythms, instruments, and songs every new dancer should know..
So, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just curious, step onto the floor and join this living history. Salsa is more than a dance; it is a movement that brings the world together through music and joy.
About the author
Ricardo Romero has been teaching salsa for 28 years. Trained at Arthur Murray Dance Studio, he developed the 20-Step Framework, a system that takes complete beginners to confident social dancers. He came to the United States not knowing how to dance and built his method from that lived experience. He is the founder of Your Dance Studio.
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