Celia Cruz, Richie Valens and Selena are just some of the influential, Latino music artists that have given flavor, sabor, to popular music. The sounds of Latino music in the U.S. have proven to be as diverse as Latino culture here, but they all share a common history, influences and sabor.
“American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music,” a traveling exhibit, created by the Experience Music Project and organized for travel by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, is currently on display at the San Francisco Public Library on 100 Larkin St.
“Sabor” takes visitors through five displays, each representing a different region influential to Latino music in the U.S. – San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Antonio, Miami and New York City. A brief overview of musical genres and artists from each region ignites curiosity to learn, listen and discover more of what Latin music has to offer.
Iconic images of Latino artists enhance the exhibit: A life size picture of Selena wearing her famous purple suit during her last concert brings back memories of the fallen Queen of Tejano Music, and an image of Santana at Woodstock in 1969 gives us a glimpse of the history and career of the famous, San Francisco guitarist. The vibrant and iconic images are helpful especially for visual learners.
Album covers of hit records from the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s and beyond, by artists like the Brooklyn Sounds, Santana, Hector Lavoe and Los Lobos are also displayed. Sabor takes it a step further by providing historical information on the political and social factors that influenced Latino music from the 1940s to present.
Maps of migration patterns between Latin American and Caribbean countries to each major city are also on display. The maps are helpful for visitors looking to learn about the roots and traditions behind particular musical styles.
The exhibit is vibrant and informative. The dedication and effort of the curators is evident in the collection of rare photographs, the detailed historic information and even in the colorful pamphlets that allow visitors to take a piece of the exhibit home.
However, the exhibit lacked many of the interactive activities it promised; the sound guides, short film and jukebox were creative, but they did not allow visitors to engage in interactive activities to further explore Latino musical styles.
Visit American Sabor: Latinos in the U.S. Popular Music at the San Francisco Public Library between Aug. 27 and Nov. 13. A series of performances, dance classes and discussions will also take place the library along with the exhibit. For complete program information visit http://www.sfpl.org/sabor. Visit http://www.americansabor.org to learn more about the exhibit, Latino artists and musical styles.