What is Candombe?

Candombe is Afro-Uruguayan music that originated with African slaves who arrived in Uruguay starting in the mid 1700s. “Candombe” was the generic name for their dances; fricans called their drums, and the place they gathered to perform their music, “tangó.” Candombe is a rhythm played with three different kinds of drums. The combination of the drums with different rhythmic patterns is what makes candombe. A combination f music and dance, the candombe culture is Uruguay´s most unique and traditional musical expression.

History:

Montevideo was a major slave-trade port in the past, The first African slaves arrived in 1750, and large numbers of Africans were trafficked here for the next 60 years by the English and the Spanish. The Spanish repressed their culture; therefore, their culture was repressed by the Spanish, they communicated with each other through drumming and this has become a major part of Montevideo popular culture, influencing music and dance. It wasn’t until 1846 slavery was not only abolished and all men regardless of race were allow to vote.

Modern Times:

"Desfile de las Llamadas" is a big united parade on Montevideo's Avenue on the 18th of July. The carnaval is called "Las Llamadas" ("The Calls", because in former times the different carnaval groups "called" each other with their tambors). Many seats are sold in advance for this parade. While candombe was originally performed only by a group of drummers joined by dancers, it has evolved into a style that can include instruments from different families as well as singers.