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The son is a Cuban dance that originated in rural eastern Cuba and gained popularity in Havana in the early 20th century. It blends Spanish guitar traditions with African rhythms and call-and-response vocals.1

The son evolved from the danzón, incorporating more Afro-Cuban elements like hip isolation and a man's pivot. It is distinct from the Mexican son. The son was Cuba's national dance before the 1959 revolution. It also influenced other dances like mambo, cha-cha-chá, and salsa. The ballroom rumba is based on the Cuban son.23

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