Discovering the Passion of Dominican Merengue
Have you ever been surprised to see a Dominican suddenly break into a dance? Don't worry, it's completely normal.
In fact, it's one of the unmistakable signs that define us. That's why we say Dominicans have "la musiquita por dentro," and merengue is an essential part of that rhythm that moves us.
The Dominican Republic is recognized worldwide for its music, and among all its genres, merengue stands out. It has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
This rhythm is much more than just a melody; it's a celebration of life, an expression of joy, and a tradition that unites generations.
Dominican Merengue: Party, Joy, and Tradition
For us Dominicans, dancing means celebration, passion, and happiness. When a good merengue starts playing—as we like to say—it’s impossible to stay still.
You might wonder, what does “un merengue de los buenos” mean? While to some all merengues may sound alike, Dominicans hear the difference: the classics, the old-school ones—those that feel like national anthems and make your hips move on their own—have a unique swing and flavor.
Merengue is danced in pairs, characterized by movements full of flirtation and sensuality, with everyone adding their own style.
It’s a dance learned from childhood by watching, imitating, and most importantly, joining in at parties and family gatherings.
We can’t discuss merengue without mentioning songs that are part of our folklore, like “Caña Brava” by Toño Abreu and Hipólito Martínez—pieces that have accompanied generations and still play in every corner of the country.
Outstanding Dominican Merengue Artists
The Dominican Republic has been the birthplace of great merengue artists with international reach.
Names such as Juan Luis Guerra, Fernando Villalona, Wilfrido Vargas, Bonny Cepeda, Eddy Herrera, Milly Quezada, Mirian Cruz, Sergio Vargas, Ramón Orlando, Alex Bueno and Los Hermanos Rosario have proudly taken our rhythm to stages around the world, waving the Dominican flag.
It is also important to remember those who are no longer with us but who left behind an invaluable legacy: Joseito Mateo, Johnny Ventura (El Caballo Mayor), Rubby Pérez (La Voz Más Alta del Merengue), Diómedes Núñez, and many other great Dominican artists.
Have you ever been to a baseball game in Santiago? You’ve definitely heard those songs by Diómedes that energize every game of Las Águilas Cibaeñas.
When one of his merengues plays in the stadium, with lyrics that get the crowd fired up—like “las Águilas son las Águilas” and “esto se incendió”—you can feel the joy, passion, and tradition in every corner, spreading to everyone present.
Styles of Merengue in the Dominican Republic
Like any musical genre, merengue has evolved, resulting in several styles that enrich our culture:
Perico Ripiao or típico merengue: With its fast and vibrant rhythm, this style embodies the soul of the Cibao region and is the oldest version of merengue. If you get the chance, don’t miss performances by great artists like Fefita la Grande, Geovanny Polanco, Krisspy, or El Rubio del Acordeón. A must-see artist is Tatico Henríquez, a pioneer and innovator of típico merengue.
Guitar or string merengue: This style fuses merengue and bachata, and is very popular in rural areas and country parties, where the guitar takes center stage.
Apambichao merengue: Made famous by Johnny Ventura, this slower version is danced closely and is perfect for those who enjoy a more relaxed, romantic rhythm.
Orchestra merengue: This is the favorite style for big parties and celebrations, especially during Christmas and corporate events, where orchestras get everyone moving.
Commercial merengue: This modern and popular style is full of fusions and adapted to contemporary tastes, playing on every radio station and at every celebration in the country.
If you want to explore our music further, we recommend looking up songs like “El Farolito” by Juan Luis Guerra or “Guayando” by Fulanitos on YouTube. We guarantee you won’t be able to stay seated!
Enjoy Dominican Music and Live the Paradise
At Century 21 Perdomo, a real estate agency on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic, we proudly support the culture and music that define us.
We don’t just sell houses and apartments in Sosúa and Cabarete; we want everyone who chooses us to feel part of this vibrant community.
We have sponsored events like the Cabarete Jazz Festival, where national and international artists come together to celebrate music.
Beyond helping you find the perfect place for your real estate project, we aim for you to experience the Dominican lifestyle in all its facets: its people
We invite you to discover more about merengue, let yourself be carried away by its rhythm, and enjoy life in this tropical paradise, the Dominican Republic.
Here, every day feels like a party, and music is always present. Welcome to our land, where merengue is more than just a dance—it’s a way of being that unites us!