Cuban Music ” Babaluaye”

November 13, 2009 jerryorbachfan

Good Morning everyone!!

First of all, I would like to applaud Mr. Francois Zayas on his fascinating presentation on Cuban music. Thank You! I am really interested in Timba music!! I would love to listen to that genre of Cuban music!

During the presentation, I could not help but be reminded of the Cuban musician Desi Arnaz. I am a huge “I Love Lucy” fan and am a huge fan of Desi Arnaz’s music!!!

I really like to share some of Desi Arnaz’s songs on today’s posting!
Enjoy!

One day, I hope to visit the Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz museum in Jamestown, New York. Desi was born in Santiago de Cuba in 1917. His father was also the Mayor of Santiago de Cuba! Right now, I am reading Desi Arnaz’s autobiography called “A Book”.

Official description:
This song is so amazing. It features shakers, bells and congos. During one part early in the song, I hear a person talking. It sounds very tribal and the tempo stays consistent. In the middle of the song, the beat seems to move a bit faster. It has a very relaxing sound! It is so simple yet fascinating!

The musical phrases seem consonant and they seem pretty repetitive. The clave instrument is from Cuba. This song has a “mystical” feel to it. It is very relaxing. It’s totally instrumental. Also, it seems to me like there is some sort of Arabic influence in the percussion. Each instrument has a specific role in the creation of the song. This is extremely percussive…..the shakers are maintaining a steady beat. Afro-Cuban music is so neat and I really enjoy listening to it!! I can’t wait for tonight’s concert!!!!!

The African traits are very apparent. It’s very participatory and the sense of community in this song. It seems to be very cyclical. There is something about the percussion that makes it sound tribal. It’s very mystifying. Yes…this song does have an Arabic feel…..especially in the drumbeats!

Rock on!!

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