06 Jun, 2024
The Different Styles of Salsa Dancing Explained
Dilshan Kelsen
So you're interested in learning Salsa? You might be surprised to learn that there are several distinct styles of Salsa dancing. This variety can be confusing for beginners entering the scene. This guide will help you understand the differences between these styles and what to look out for when searching for classes in your city.
Why the Differences?
Salsa music originated in Cuba, evolving from Son Cubano in the 1930s. Over the decades, the genre gained traction throughout the Americas, especially in the United States, where many Cubans migrated following the Cuban Revolution. Due to geographical, cultural, and temporal differences, each region in the Americas developed its own distinctive flavor of Salsa music and dancing. The 1960s and 1970s are often considered the golden age of Salsa, as New York City popularized the genre worldwide.
Popular Styles
In most cities around the world, you will encounter one of three primary styles:
Cuban Salsa
LA Style Salsa
NY Style Salsa
Cuban Salsa
Cuban Salsa, as the name suggests, originates from Cuba. The dance is performed in a circular fashion, with the leader and follower moving around each other. By the 1980s, a new music genre called Timba emerged, bringing corresponding changes to the dance. Timba incorporates influences from American R&B/Funk and Afro-Cuban folkloric music known as Rumba. The last one is not to be confused with the ballroom dance called Rhumba. Cuban Salsa is danced on the first beat (on 1) of a song and features a grounded yet energetic style with elaborate arm movements that can appear complex to beginners.
Rueda de Casino
Rueda de Casino is a sub-style of Cuban Salsa where groups of pairs dance in a circle, performing figures announced by a "cantante" (caller), and switch partners throughout the song. This style originated in Cuban dance halls frequented by wealthier Cubans and tourists. It is popular in dance schools as a method to teach Cuban Salsa.
LA Style Salsa
LA Style Salsa is danced in a linear fashion, often referred to, along with NY Style, as "crossbody lead" styles. This style emphasizes show performance, especially in the professional scene. It is danced on the first beat (on 1).
NY Style Salsa
NY Style Salsa shares many elements with LA Style but differs in that the emphasis while dancing is on the second beat (on 2) rather than the first. This subtle difference gives NY Style a unique feel and timing.
Other Styles
While the aforementioned styles are the most common, other styles might be encountered depending on your location.
Salsa Caleña
Originating from Colombia, this style emphasizes intricate footwork and is often performed to fast-paced music.
Salsa Choke
Also from Colombia, Salsa Choke focuses on footwork but is typically danced solo rather than with a partner.
Puerto Rican Salsa
Puerto Rican Salsa is less defined in its rules compared to other styles. It is usually danced in a linear fashion with simpler turns.
Choosing a Style
Often, the choice of style will depend on what is available in your city. Typically, one style will dominate the local community, although this can change over time. It's usually a smart choice to start with the predominant style, as it means there will be more socials and practice opportunities in your area. Regardless of whether you choose Cuban, LA, or NY Style Salsa, each offers a unique and exciting way to experience this vibrant dance form. Happy dancing!