Cali, Colombia Reverberates with History: 100 Years of Trío Matamoros & a Legacy of Salsa Honored
Santiago de Cali, Colombia – December 29, 2025 – The heart of Colombia’s salsa scene is beating strong today as the 34th Meeting of Music Lovers and Collectors, part of the famed ‘68 Cali Fair,’ dedicates a day to celebrating the centennial of the iconic Cuban trio, Trío Matamoros. This isn’t just a nostalgic look back; it’s a vibrant reaffirmation of Cali’s deep connection to Cuban music and the enduring spirit of salsa. This is breaking news for music lovers worldwide, and a crucial moment for understanding the cultural landscape of Cali, a city increasingly recognized as a global hub for this passionate art form. We’re bringing you this story with a focus on SEO and Google News indexing to ensure it reaches the widest possible audience.
“Son de la Loma” Echoes Through ‘El Jaragual’
The fourth day of the ‘Melómanos Meeting’ unfolded within the academic space known as ‘El Jaragual,’ focusing on the enduring legacy of Trío Matamoros and their signature song, “Son de la Loma.” Founded in 1925 by Miguel Matamoros, the trio – known for hits like “He who sows his corn,” “Black Tears,” and “Hey my conga” – profoundly influenced Latin American music. The choice of “Son de la Loma” as the day’s theme isn’t accidental. René Gómez Gaitán, founder of ASOCALI, shared a captivating story: the song’s lyrics were inspired by a simple question from a young fan asking Miguel Matamoros where the singers were from. His response – “they are from Santiago” and “they sing in the plain” – became a lyrical cornerstone, forever linking the trio to Havana and its musical heritage.
Cali’s Salsa Soul: A Cuban Connection
But this celebration isn’t solely about honoring a Cuban group. It’s about recognizing the vital role Cuban music played in shaping Cali’s unique salsa identity. Harold Mosquera Villaquirán, president of the Cultural Association of Music Lovers and Salsa Collectors (Asosalsa), emphasized this point: “Cali took these Afro-Cuban rhythms as its own and has gained so much strength that that is why, today, it is called the World Capital of Salsa.” This isn’t hyperbole; it’s a testament to the city’s passionate embrace and innovative evolution of the genre. The event highlights how Cali didn’t just *adopt* salsa, it *transformed* it.
Honoring the Guardians of Salsa Culture
The meeting also served as a platform to recognize the tireless efforts of those dedicated to preserving Cali’s musical heritage. ASOCALI, and its visionary founder René Gómez Gaitán, were honored for 32 years of unwavering commitment to the promotion, preservation, and defense of salsa culture in the city. ASOCALI was the first association in Cali to take on this crucial role, laying the groundwork for a thriving salsa community. This recognition underscores the importance of grassroots organizations in safeguarding cultural traditions.
A Space for Learning, Collecting, and Connection
Attendees, hailing from cities like Bogotá, Popayán, Yumbo, and Guacarí, as well as representatives from UNIMEL and various cultural groups (including They are Parmenides, Asosalsa, Latin Sound, Valley Educators, and Latin Force), converged at ‘El Jaragual’ to share their passion and knowledge. Yadira Ríos Moreno, a long-time attendee from Bogotá, described the space as a place “where we really know what salsa is and we have direct interaction with people who know what it is from its beginnings, development and how it evolves.” Even Colombian actress Cony Camelo found herself captivated by the dedication of the collectors present, recognizing the value of their work in preserving salsa’s history.
‘El Jaragual’ isn’t just a meeting; it’s an educational journey, tracing the origins of salsa, its impact on Cali’s identity, and its ongoing evolution. It’s a reminder that culture isn’t just something to be enjoyed, but a vital pillar in the construction of a city’s identity. The event’s success demonstrates a powerful truth: by understanding our cultural roots, we can build a more vibrant and resilient future for Cali, and for the world of salsa itself. The energy and dedication on display today signal a continued commitment to keeping the rhythm of Cali alive for generations to come.
