Tropical Tunes for a Panama Brew 

Panama is a bridge between two oceans and two continents, home to many cultures. Its music beautifully reflects this diversity. In the tradition of our Cumpa Coffee tracks, we have also put together a playlist for you to accompany our new origin coffee from Panama. Transport yourself to the Caribbean while roasting, brewing, sipping, and at any occasion. 

Here’s an overview of the multifaceted musical world of Panama, ranging from traditional folklore to modern urban sounds. 

Folklore: 

Although Panama is a center of globalization, indigenous groups and African communities have managed to preserve some of their dances and customs. As a result, Panama has a rich tradition of folkloric music and dances, which are often presented during national festivals and celebrations. 

Cumbia: 

One of the most well-known traditional dances of Panama. Panamanian cumbia differs from other Latin American versions through its specific rhythm and the use of traditional instruments like the “mejorana” and the “rabel.” 

Tamborito: 

Another traditional music genre based on drums (tamboritos), often accompanied by call-and-response singing. This dance is commonly performed at festivals and religious celebrations. 

Influences from Africa and Europe: Due to its strategic geographic location, Panama has been a focal point of colonial activities since the arrival of Europeans. It is no surprise that Panama’s music is strongly influenced by African and European elements. This includes Congo music, which is characterized by melodies, rhythms, and dances rooted in African traditions and is especially preserved in the province of Colón. It expresses the identity and cultural heritage of the African diaspora in Panama. 

Décima: Décima is a Spanish-influenced singing style often accompanied by guitar. The lyrics are mostly poetic and narrate stories from daily life or historical events. 

Reggae en Español: 

Panama is considered the birthplace of Reggae en Español. Artists like El General and Nando Boom popularized this genre in the 1980s and 1990s, which later contributed to the development of reggaeton. Hits such as “Tu Pun Pun,” “Muevelo,” or “Rica y Apretadita” remain classics that are still celebrated in the Spanish-speaking world. 

Salsa: 

Panama’s salsa scene is vibrant and dynamic. Artists like Rubén Blades have gained international recognition and help to spread the popularity of Panamanian salsa worldwide. Blades served as Panama’s tourism manager from 2004 to 2009 due to his acclaim. 

Rock and Jazz: 

The rock and jazz scene in Panama may be small, but it is influential. Musicians like Danilo Pérez have put the country on the international jazz map, while bands like Los Rabanes represent Panamanian rock. 

Festivals and Events: 

Panama is home to numerous music festivals that celebrate the diversity of the country’s musical traditions. The Panama Jazz Festival annually attracts international jazz celebrities and fans, providing a platform for Panamanian musicians to connect with the global jazz community. The Festival Nacional de la Mejorana is a traditional festival celebrating folkloric music and dance, held in Guararé, a town in the province of Los Santos.