Bachata
The word “Bachata” means ‘Party’ or ‘Social Gathering’.
In the beginning Bachata was associated with parties and so Bachata related to this meaning was considered ‘a way of life, instead of a style of Music or Dance’.
History
Bachata emerged in the 1920’s and was closely associated with poor migrants living in the rural areas of Repiblica Dominicana.
This latin dance was considered crude, vulgar and too musically rustic to join the mainstream musical landscape.
The reputation of Bachata deteriorated as the lyrics in the songs included drinking and womanizing and was associated with unacceptable behavior.
However, Bachata has since evolved as a latin dance and a music style, with the addition of other instruments and various artists including the most popular the Bolero style.
The word "Bolero" can be characterized by slow tempo, emotional style, and romantic words.
Bachata is now embraced by all of the Dominican Society as a style of music and latin dance combined, and now has a worldwide following among salsa dancers.
Music
“Mùsica de amargue”
“Music of the Bitter Souls”
Bachata music has incorporated several changes and refined itself in its 40-plus years, it has many different meanings.
Bachata music is a Dominican style, with Cuban and Caribbean influences. Just like any other typical Latin dance music, it was born and grew up among the poorest social classes.
Bachata Bolero – Slow tempo, emotional style with romantic words.
Cabaret Bachata – Related to social rejection, essentially rough.
There are also many other genres of bachata music as related to Latin dancing.