Vallenato

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A style of music originating from Colombia, characterized by the use of guitar, accordion, and drums, which embodies local cultural narratives and celebrations
2. This musical genre from Colombia is marked by narrative lyrics and is commonly played during social events, showcasing vibrant rhythms
3. A traditional musical style from Colombia featuring accordion and rhythmic percussion that tells stories of the region

Etymology: Vallenato is a Colombian musical genre whose name is a compound of two Spanish words: "valle," meaning "valley," and "nato," meaning "born." Together they describe a music "born in the valley," and the valley in question is the Valledupar region in the north of Colombia, where the style took shape among rural farmers and herders. The "-ato" ending is a Spanish formation meaning "native of" or "born in," so the word works much like a demonym, naming the music for the land it came from. Its modern meaning, a genre built on narrative songs and accordion-led rhythms, grew out of that regional identity.

Synonyms: vallenato music, colombian folk music