Arroz con habichuelas

“Arroz con habichuelas” by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico is a vibrant celebration of traditional salsa music, deeply rooted in cultural pride and musical heritage. The song opens with a clear declaration that it is not a modern genre like rock or a light-hearted ballad; instead, it is a rich blend of Salsa, Son, and Rumba. This sets the tone for the entire piece, emphasizing the authenticity and depth of the music, much like the hearty dish of rice and beans it is named after.

The lyrics further delve into the intricacies of mastering this genre. It’s not something that can be learned quickly or superficially. The song stresses that true understanding and skill in salsa come from years of dedication and practice. This is highlighted in lines like “Esto lleva sus añitos” (This takes years) and “Esto no viene en los libros” (This doesn’t come in books), underscoring the importance of experience and the passing down of knowledge through generations.

El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, with their four decades of experience, likens their music to a well-cooked meal, prepared with care and tradition. The song pays homage to the roots of salsa, blending the elegance of Cuban Son with the forward-driving swing of New York. It’s a nod to the old school, where the true essence of salsa is not taught in prestigious academies but learned in the streets and through communal gatherings. The repeated refrain of “Sabor, sabor, sabor de la vieja escuela” (Flavor, flavor, flavor of the old school) encapsulates this sentiment, celebrating the rich, flavorful history of Caribbean music.

The song is a testament to the enduring legacy of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico and their commitment to preserving and celebrating the traditional sounds of salsa. It’s a musical feast that invites listeners to savor the deep, authentic flavors of their cultural heritage.