A lot has changed since I wrote my short intro to Wedding Cumbia Songs. It was a short post and I can see that a lot of people are interested in finding out about Cumbia songs played at weddings.
Let me start by saying, that everyone classifies their cumbias differently. As a result, this is just going to be an example of how I classify my songs that are in the cumbia genre.
This is a combination of my own experience as a wedding DJ in the city of Houston and an article on Cumbias from Wikipedia.
Table of Contents
What are the Different Styles of Wedding Cumbia Songs?
Let me start first by separating the different styles of cumbias I know.
- Nortenas
- Tejanas
- Gruperas
- Colombianas
- Guarachas or Huarachas
- Sonideras
- Regionales
- Chilenas
- Salvadoreñas
- Wepa
- Villeras
- Tribal
- Sonideras Rapidas
- Mexicanas
- con Banda
At the majority of my Latino weddings, there is always some type of cumbia played. And because I am in Houston Texas, there is a diverse group of Latinos that I have to cater to. As a wedding DJ of course. In other words, I have to play most of the cumbia styles or sub-genres.
The other thing to remember about weddings is that it is catering to the 20 and above crowd. This means the song selection will be completely different than if you were playing a quinceanera or sweet sixteen. Younger kids love to hear their own, much newer styles of cumbias.
I love to start Latino Weddings with cumbias for a few reasons.
Firstly, they are a well-known genre people know and love to dance. Secondly, the sounds of the cumbia are pretty catchy and lively. As a result, it promotes, a natural response to want to dance. Thirdly, if the crowd is not the get-up-and-dance-the-first-song-you-hear type of people, then at least it’s a good way to get into a groove and naturally want to come up to the dance floor. Finally, there are so many wedding cumbias to choose from. As a result, it’s really easy to select the best hit for any type of crowd, whether they are from Mexico, Chile, Argentina, El Salvador, Colombia, Venezuela, etc… Consequently, the opening of your wedding dance music will be great if you start it off with a Cumbia.
What are the most popular Wedding Cumbia Songs?
The most popular Wedding cumbia songs for me have to be the Mexican style of cumbia. A the end I will share my Number 1 Song that I love to start most of my dances and I will tell you my reasons why. Right now I want to focus on the most popular wedding cumbias.
The Mexican Cumbia Genre, or Cumbias Mexicanas, can be split up into different sub-sub genres. *
Wedding Cumbia Songs – Mexicanas
- Nortenas
- Gruperas
- Sonideras
- Regionales
- Tribal
- Sonideras Rapidas
- Guarachas
- Tejanas
- Wepas
- con Banda
- Wepas
All the Wedding Cumbias Explained
Cumbias Nortenas
Cumbias Nortenas, which translates to cumbias from the north of Mexico. These are more popular in the northern states of Mexico. The State of Nuevo Leon is an example.
Norteno Groups like Pesado, Intocable, Los Traileros, Los Invasores, Los Cadetes de Linares, Grupo Control, and Los Tigrillos were extremely popular there. Monterrey is a big city in the state of Nuevo Leon. It is one of the biggest cities in all of Mexico. That’s where this Genre of Music is very popular.
To get an idea of this style of cumbia, have a listen to this Spotify playlist.
Cumbias Gruperas
This genre was extremely popular in the 90s. Cumbias Gruperas translates to Cumbias by a group.
Popular Groups include Los Mier, Bronco, Priscilla y Sus Balas De Plata, Ana Barbara, Grupo Mojado, Mandingo, Grupo Limite, and Fito Olivares. These groups were also very popular in the northern half of Mexico. However, they were very popular across all of Mexico in the 1990s.
Cumbias Regionales
Cumbias Regionales is another name for Cumbias Nortenas. However, it can also have roots in more traditional songs. For example, they use more violin and guitars as the main instrument.
Cumbias Tribal
Tribal or Trival Music is a fusion of Cumbia music with an electrotype of music. Very high-energy, fast, club-style ambiance music.
This Sub Genre was made popular in the early 2010s by the Artist known as 3ball MTY, which would sound out the words, Tribal Monterrey. He released the song Me Prende, also known as Internal. As a result of the success of this song, other artists that created Tribal Music came to light. For Example, El Pelon del Mikrofon, DJ Cobra, etc…
Cumbias Sonideras Rapidas
This style of music was very popular in the early 2000s. The dancing was similar to how Tribal or Trival music was danced. The group that made it popular was Sabor Kolombia. Other songs that fit this style were Mueve tu Cuerpo / La Culebritica, grupo los Kombers, Los Chicos de Barrio, Los Reyes del Sabor, & el Gran Silencio.
The sound of the music was the very fast style of cumbia characterized by the sounds of trumpets and accordion in most hype parts of the song.
Cumbias Guarachas & Sonideras
These two subgenres are nearly identical, and the differences between them can be challenging to pinpoint. The distinction often comes down to personal preference and regional naming conventions. Some people who grew up calling them Guarachas will argue against those who refer to them as Sonideras, and vice versa. This debate highlights how subjective music classification can be, with listeners’ backgrounds and experiences shaping their understanding of a genre.
The sound is so similar that I typically group them, and people usually end up dancing anyway. This style of music gained popularity around Mexico City, and its lively rhythms continue to captivate audiences. For example, listen to La Guaracha Sabrosona and Grupo Kual—you might find the Guaracha sound a bit more “dragged,” which to me, suggests that the best way to dance is by dragging your feet. However, this is just my opinion, and others might interpret the music differently. Ultimately, whether you call it Guaracha or Sonidera, the infectious energy of the music remains the same.
Cumbias Tejanas
Cumbias Tejanas, also known as Tex-Mex Cumbias, is a distinctive blend of traditional cumbia rhythms with the unique sounds of Tejano music. This genre has become extremely popular in Texas, especially among Chicanos and Tejanos, thanks to its infectious beats and cultural resonance. Iconic artists like Selena, La Mafia, Bobby Pulido, Jay Perez, David Olivares, and Mazz have contributed to the popularity of Cumbias Tejanas, creating music that resonates with fans across generations. Their music encapsulates the spirit of Tejano culture, offering a rich tapestry of sound that is both danceable and deeply rooted in the Texan and Mexican-American experience.
Finding a good playlist of Cumbias Tejanas on Spotify can be challenging. Many playlists often combine Tejano polkas, regular Tejano songs, and even Norteño songs under the Tejano music category, leading to confusion. There was a time when some Norteño artists started labeling their music as “Tejanas,” which contributed to this overlap. While both styles are rich in cultural significance, they are distinct from each other, and this blending can make it difficult for listeners to find playlists that truly represent the unique sound of Cumbias Tejanas.
As a result, I’ve had to clarify my personal preferences when searching for Cumbias Tejanas playlists. While all these songs fall under the broad category of cumbia, the specific sub-genre classification can vary depending on individual tastes. If you’re a fan of Cumbias Tejanas and are looking for an authentic playlist, it’s crucial to save it once you find one that captures the true essence of this vibrant genre. Keep exploring, and enjoy the energetic rhythms that make Cumbias Tejanas a beloved choice for music enthusiasts.
Cumbias Wepa
Cumbias Wepas, or simply Wepas, is a newer style of music that has emerged recently in the past couple of years. That is to say, this style of music is more popular with the younger crowd and more appropriate for a quinceanera or sweet sixteen. For example, these are usually remixes of popular songs that are not cumbias and are remixed into this web style of music. The best way to explain it is, simply a hyped-up version of the guaracha or sonidero style of music.
This style of music is still not very popular at the weddings I typically do, but I have played one or two songs here and there, depending on how I feel the crowd.
Cumbias con Banda
Cumbias con banda, or Cumbias with a band, are songs that are characterized by the sounds of a full Mexican banda. Mexican bandas are usually really big and don’t require amplified sound as there are usually two or three people in the band playing the same instrument.
Most bands will have Trumpets, Trombones, Tubas, Drums, Flutes, and/or Clarinets. Most importantly, Trumpets, trombones, and tubas are usually the main sounds of the rhythm.
This concludes our Mexican Cumbias Genre. I think the most important thing is to hear the slight differences between these sub-genres. There is not much difference. However, when you get to Tribal and Sonideras Rapidas. But, cumbias used to be dancing the same way back in the early 80s. But, at a slower speed.
Wedding Cumbia By Country
The rest of the wedding cumbia songs that are in the following genres are mainly connected to the country they originated from.
Cumbias Colombianas
Cumbias Colombianas originated in Colombia and are very popular there. However, they were also very popular in Mexico and the rest of Latin America. Known for their captivating rhythms and rich cultural heritage, Cumbias Colombianas have become a beloved genre across the continent. The music typically features traditional instruments like accordions, drums, and flutes, creating a sound that is both lively and deeply rooted in the region’s history. The infectious beats of Cumbias Colombianas have made them a staple at social gatherings, festivals, and dance floors, bringing people together to celebrate and enjoy the music. Their widespread appeal across Latin America highlights the universal language of rhythm and dance, showcasing the genre’s ability to transcend borders and resonate with diverse audiences.
Cumbias Chilenas
Cumbias Chilenas, a popular style of music in Chile, blend traditional cumbia rhythms with distinct Chilean influences, resulting in a vibrant and energetic sound. This genre has become a staple at parties and celebrations throughout the country due to its infectious beats and lively melodies. Characterized by its use of accordions, trumpets, and percussion instruments, Cumbias Chilenas often feature lyrics that tell stories of love, daily life, and social themes, resonating with a wide audience. The danceability and upbeat nature of Cumbias Chilenas make them a favorite choice for festive gatherings, where people of all ages come together to enjoy the music and dance the night away. Whether played at weddings, festivals, or casual get-togethers, Cumbias Chilenas bring people together, fostering a sense of community and joy.
Cumbias Salvadoreñas
Originating in El Salvador, these cumbias are very popular at Salvadoran weddings and are celebrated for their lively and infectious rhythms. While some of these songs have gained international recognition, making them familiar to audiences around the world, they maintain a distinct Salvadoran flair that adds a unique touch to any celebration. Like other cumbia styles, they are incredibly fun to dance to, making them a staple for creating an energetic and joyful atmosphere at weddings.
Cumbias Villeras
Cumbias villeras originated in Argentina and have gained significant popularity for their distinctive style. These songs, often characterized by their lively beats and vibrant melodies, are more commonly associated with a more casual, barrio vibe. Due to their explicit lyrics and themes, they aren’t frequently requested at weddings. However, the preferences at weddings can vary greatly, depending on the time and the crowd. At an Argentinian wedding, you might find that some guests request a few of these tracks to bring a touch of their cultural flavor to the celebration.
It’s important to exercise caution when incorporating cumbias villeras into a wedding playlist. DJs, in particular, should ensure they obtain a list of specific song requests directly from the client. Given the often vulgar nature of these songs’ meanings, understanding your audience’s preferences is crucial. By doing so, you can ensure the music selection aligns with the desired atmosphere and avoids any unintended surprises.
Wedding Cumbia Songs DJ
Elegante Entertainment is a Bilingual Wedding and Quinceanera DJ in the Houston Area.
DJs in Houston Elegante Entertainment
10326 Palestine St, Houston, TX 77029
(832) 465-1161
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Hi, I’m DJ Francisco Perez, a bilingual DJ and MC with over 25 years of experience. Fluent in both Spanish and English, I bring extensive knowledge across all music genres, from Spanish to English hits. As one bride noted, “He is bilingual and able to make perfect announcements in Spanish and English,” reflecting my ability to cater to diverse audiences. My passion for dancing and having a good time ensures that every party I handle is filled with energy and joy. Another bride praised me, saying, “Nice and friendly, but loves to take control of the event,” highlighting my balance of approachability and professionalism.
My journey into DJing began at the age of 17 when our church youth group needed to raise funds for activities. Driven by a love for music and dance, I eagerly volunteered to provide music for a fundraiser event. This commitment led me to invest in CDs and equipment, leveraging my existing knowledge of great music to enhance the event. Over the years, my dedication to the craft has solidified my reputation in Houston as a skilled and enthusiastic DJ.
Choosing DJ Francisco for your event means choosing a passionate professional dedicated to making people dance. I have invested in my education as a Master of Ceremonies through classes and workshops, ensuring that I can deliver exactly what my clients envision for their events. With over 200 reviews, emails, and letters of gratitude from satisfied clients, my goal is to bring a smile to your face on your special day by creating a memorable and enjoyable experience.