Watch Latin Music USA

Latin Music USA is a powerful and insightful documentary series that delves deep into the rich and diverse musical heritage of Latin America. Made up of four parts, each episode runs through the history and evolution of Latin music in America and features a mix of interviews, rare archive footage, and live performances.

Narrated and presented by celebrated actor Jimmy Smits, the show received critical acclaim upon its release in 2009 for its impressive attention to detail and layered storytelling. Drawing from a wide range of genres, including salsa, merengue, cumbia, and reggaeton, Latin Music USA offers a comprehensive overview of the complex cultural and political forces that have influenced Latin music throughout the years.

The first part of the series, Bridges, takes viewers back to the early 20th century, tracing the roots of Latin music in America all the way back to the arrival of Cuban musicians and black Puerto Ricans in New York City. Through interviews with music legends like Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco, Bridges explores the early days of Afro-Cuban jazz and salsa music and its profound impact on the American music scene.

In the second part, The Salsa Revolution, Latin Music USA dives deeper into the history of salsa and explores its rise to popularity in the 1970s. The episode features interviews with key figures in the salsa scene, such as Willie Colón and Rubén Blades, and showcases some of the biggest hits of the era. Viewers are treated to a wealth of incredible performances and archival footage, providing a fascinating insight into the cultural significance of salsa and its impact on American music.

The third episode, The Chicano Wave, charts the rise of Latin rock and the Chicano movement of the late 1960s and 1970s. The episode explores the fusion of traditional Mexican music with rock and roll, as well as the political and social context that gave rise to this powerful art form. Featuring interviews with Ritchie Valens' sister and Los Lobos' David Hidalgo, The Chicano Wave is a moving and thought-provoking testament to the resilience and creativity of Latin American people.

Finally, the show concludes with a look at Latin Pop and its evolution to today's globally recognized beat. In Latin Music USA's fourth episode, Divas and Superstars, viewers get a glimpse of Latin music celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, and Shakira, who have taken the world by storm with their catchy tunes and hot dance moves. The episode explores the enduring popularity of Latin pop and its ever-evolving sound, and features some great performances by some of today's most famous Latin music artists.

Overall, Latin Music USA is a fascinating and entertaining journey through the rich history of Latin music in America. With its engaging storytelling, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances, the show is a must-see for any fan of Latin music and a valuable resource for anyone interested in the cultural and political forces that have shaped Latin American society.