Music of Aruba

A Meshing of Influences

The music of Aruba is comprised of an interesting blend of various cultural influences from different parts of the world. The people of Aruba are passionate about their music and playing music is a big part of the culture and a way to interact and communicate. Many people who come to Aruba leave with melodies stuck in their heads, because the music of Aruba can become infectious. If you like to dance, you will probably love the Latin beats that are popular in many countries of the Caribbean and South America. But you will notice there are other elements to the music that are unique. Perhaps that is because Aruba is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, so the music is inspired by traditional Dutch music and greater European music. But there are also tinges of African music in the songs of Aruba.

Sharing some of its musical roots with Venezuela – which is located just 17 miles south of the island – Colombia, Puerto Rico, Trinidad, Guadeloupe, Haiti and many other countries in that part of the world, Aruba has a rich tradition of music and dance. The primary kind of music listened to, played and danced to in Aruba is called tumba. This is a fast-paced music that allows people to dance with enthusiasm when it is being played. Tumba is named after conga drums, which are a primary instrument in tumba music. This music is not only popular in Aruba, but also in the surrounding islands, including Bonaire, Curacao, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maartin and Saba.

That is the traditional music of Aruba. Aruba is also known for danzas, waltzes and mazurkas. However, modern music culture is popping up in Aruba. For instance a ground swelling of young hip hop artists are beginning to bring American hip hop culture into the mixed bag of musical influences. The music of Aruba, no matter the genre, tends to reflect the environment in which it was made. The serene ocean views and arid landscapes inform the songs and rhythms. Like the musical influences, Aruba itself has many influences and is a melting pot in its own right. This dynamic world perspective can also be seen in the content of the song lyrics as well in the styles of music.

Music in Aruba is an important staple for many of the citizens of Aruba. Because the people themselves are vibrant and life-affirming, the music they play ends up being just as vibrant and life-affirming.

That sounds really nice! I love to listen to all sorts of music. I really don't have a favorite that I can speak of. I listen to everything and this would be a good thing for me to go to.

My favorite dance music is Latin but I really enjoy the tumba music when I am in Aruba. You can always find musicians playing on or near the beach.

Though my favorite genre is classic, but I also enjoy other genres, I also love Latin, especially because Latin is my girlfriend's favorite. Tumba sounds interesting and I am pretty sure she will enjoy it.

I love the steel drums heard in Aruba and all around the Caribbean. The last time I was there the hotel we stayed at had a steel drum band at the pool every afternoon. It was so relaxing.