The Cha Cha Cha is a derivative of two Latin American folk dances: the Puerto Rican Danzonette and the Cuban Danzon. However, the Cha Cha Cha distinguishes itself from all other Latin dances by a vocal trademark; namely, voices singing in unison, with no vibrato.

This new dance craze was created and introduced in the United States by Minon Mondejar in 1949. It has become increasingly more popular and is now threatening the supremacy of such Latin American dance favorites as the mambo and rhumba. Tempo-wise the Cha Cha Cha is diversified, savory and inviting in its varied forms . . . Bolero Cha Cha Cha, Mambo Cha Cha Cha, Danzon Cha Cha Cha and, perhaps even a Samba Cha Cha Cha. The influence of Latin music upon our American scene has been manifested by the introduction of the Jazz Cha Cha Cha. Two excellent examples are Don Swan's treatment of the Rock and Roll Cha Cha Cha and the Dixieland Cha Cha Cha. To date, the Cha Cha Cha has been presented in varied forms of instrumentation. Modern Cha Cha Cha exponents such as Tito Puente, Enrique Jorrin, Pablo Beltran Ruiz and Noro Morales have used a multitude of instrumental combinations. However, good interpretation overshadows all else . . . brass, strings or reeds are used both melodically and in rhythm patterns against a solid Latin rhythm section with voices in unison predominating throughout.

Notes By "Chico" Lionel Sesma

"Chico" Lionel Sesmo is one of America's fast rising young disc jockeys. His programs of Latin American music on Radio Station KOWL, Santa Monica have some of the highest listener ratings in the Southern California area. His popularity has spread to Mexico City where he is now heard regularly through the medium of taped shows. Sesma is a musician in his own right, having fronted many fine Latin bands.

ABOUT DON SWAN

Don Swan's name has been synonymous with Latin American music for many years. His arrangements have sparked the popularity of such luminaries as Xavier Cugat, Desi Arnaz and Perez Prado.