Los Van Van: Cuba's salsa train
The Clave ChroniclesPlay episode
Show notes
Los Van Van has been Cuba’s premier dance band since its formation in 1969, with its longevity earning the band the nickname El tren de la salsa (the salsa train). Rebecca covers the band's first two decades and the innovations of Los Van Van's founder/bassist Juan Formell, as well as other musicians like drummer Changuito and pianist Cesar "Pupy" Pedroso, such as the group's signature rhythm (songo).
With its charismatic lead singer Pedro Calvo, in the 1980s Los Van Van achieved an almost-perfect synthesis of catchy, danceable music and satirical commentary on diverse social issues and controversies.
Songs played:
Marilu
Llegada
Dale dos
La Habana No Aguanta Más
Sandunguera
No Soy de la Gran Escena
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Intro and outro music: "Bengo Latino," Jimmy Fontanez/Media Right Productions
