Music of a wonderful world

[Famous Songs of the World] A curated introduction to soul-stirring popular Latin mambo tracks

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

Born in Cuba in the 1940s, mambo has captivated the world with its passionate rhythms and dazzling sound.

Songs like “Bésame Mucho” by Mexico’s Consuelo Velázquez and “Mambo Italiano” by America’s Rosemary Clooney have continued to be loved by artists across borders.

With its powerful brass sections and lively percussion, and the innovative performance style of Tito Puente—known as the “King of the Timbales”—mambo remains as vibrant as ever, setting hearts dancing around the world.

[World Masterpieces] A curated selection of soul-stirring popular Latin mambo tracks (41–50)

CachitoSatō Junko & Raten Ansanburu Jupitā

“Cachito” is a work by Consuelo Velázquez, the composer and pianist of “Bésame Mucho.” The title generally means “cute boy,” but from the lyrics it can also mean “my own son.” Performance by Junko Sato & Latin Ensemble Jupiter.

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Oe, como va?Kojima Tarō & HIPBAND

Oecomoba

Oe, como va?Kojima Tarō & HIPBAND

“Oye Como Va” is a work by Tito Puente.

The cover that became a hit was “Listen to My Rhythm” by the American Latin rock band Santana.

The performance is by Taro Kojima & HIPBAND, recorded at a concert held at the Shizugin Hall Euphonia.

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This is Mambo.Supanishshu Hāremu Ōkesutora

Spanish Harlem Orchestra performs This is Mambo

This is Mambo.Supanishshu Hāremu Ōkesutora

“This is mambo.” The performance is by the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, a U.S.-based Latin dance music orchestra.

It was founded by Aaron Levinson and Oscar Hernández.

The lead vocalist is Marco Bermúdez.

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In conclusion

Among Latin music, we have introduced especially dazzling and passionate mambo masterpieces.

From classics of Mexico and Cuba to pieces beloved by Japanese wind ensembles, you’ve likely felt the wide world of mambo.

Its body-swaying rhythms and heart-thrilling melodies continue to captivate people around the globe.

Be sure to savor the full allure of mambo with these timeless tracks.