Hailing from Mexico, Norteño music has folk roots and is often high energy. According to AllMusic, Norteño is dance music, typically performed by a small group and featuring instruments such as accordions, bass, and guitar. The lyrics usually tell a single story, focusing on traditional and rural themes. The vocalists in Norteño bands are typically very expressive. Norteño music was influenced by European folk songs such as the polka, but has taken on an exuberant life of its own.
Bossa nova is a Brazilian-influenced style of jazz that was popularized in the late 1950's. According to All About Jazz, bossa nova means "new thing." Antonio Carlos Jobim spearheaded the bossa nova movement with Portuguese lyrics and smooth, unique guitar rhythms. Today, bossa nova typically has a polished and relaxing retro sound. The Latin American influence has created a lasting catchy appeal.
According to Music of Puerto Rico, salsa means "sauce," suggesting the vibrant energy of this Puerto Rican music genre. Influenced by many different cultural styles, salsa music is often exuberant and fast-paced. It features a distinctive use of percussion, which dancers can sense as they move to the rhythm. Salsa music also can be slower-paced and feature solo vocalists. This Latin American music genre is as flexible as its many musical roots.
According to Spanish Abroad, tango is one of Argentina's main musical gifts to the rest of the world. Tango music is passionate, sometimes dark, and can be full of either tragedy or romance. Tango music is primarily dance music, accompanied by dance moves recognizable for their sensuality and complexity. This Argentinean music has a strong rhythm and continues to be a popular example of vivid Latin American musical genres.