Bachata Music and History

Bachata Music

Bachata Music and controversies.

The first Dominican bachatas were recorded after the death of  the Dictator of the Dominican Republic, Trujillo, whose 30-year dictatorship was accompanied by censorship. 

Soon after the death of trujillo, José Manuel Calderón is credited as having recorded the first bachata singles. The music itself has evolved over time but evolutions that developed in the European market in the early 2000’s are still considered highly controversial.

The blending of bachata rhythms with modern songs led to a unique style of dance called Sensual Bachata with many of the moves originating in Zouk and Contemporary. Although the bachata rhythm is present in the music, the dance itself is considered not be bachata by some.

Regardless of the controversies, bachata has grown to be an international phenomena. The music and various styles of dance are danced by millions world wide.

The following music samples contain traditional bachata dominicanas as well as modern bachatas and a number of modern era songs with bachata rhythms.