Music tempo for the Cha Cha typically ranges from 110 to 130 beats per minute. If you are just beginning to learn the Cha Cha, you will want to keep the music on the slower end, between 100 to 110 beats per minute. This will make it easier for you and your partner to keep up with the steps.
Cha Cha music is written in 4/4 time, meaning there are four beats in each measure. In performing the dance, five steps are taken to every four beats of music. The steps may be counted using the terms "quick" and "slow." For example, you would say, "slow, slow, slow, quick, quick... slow, slow, slow, quick, quick."
The Cha Cha, which has roots in Latin music, evolved from the mambo in the 1950's and has close ties to the sounds of salsa. In 1953 the Cuban orchestra "America" started playing the time-honored "Danzon" with a new syncopated beat. The music sounded similar to that for a slow mambo. Gradually Cuban dancers changed the mambo steps to a triple step on the slow count and the Cha Cha was born.
Dancing the Cha Cha should be done with a lighthearted, fun spirit. It is the perfect party dance, and the music should match. You may be familiar with a number of songs ideal for the Cha Cha being played on the radio today. They include: "Smooth," by Santana, "Let's Get Loud," by Jennifer Lopez, "Disco Inferno," by the Trammps, "Chain of Fools," by Aretha Franklin and "Crazy In Love," by Beyonce.