Rooted In Rhythm: Exploring Puerto Rico’s African Legacy Through Music And Flavor

By Melissa Rose Cooper ·Updated April 18, 2025While San Juan’s vibrant streets draw millions of visitors to Puerto Rico every year, just a short drive away lies Loíza — a town that pulses with the soulful rhythms of Africa’s enduring legacy. Here, the rich traditions of bomba come alive, telling stories of resilience, joy and pain through its intricate beats and movements.“It’s a conversation with the dancers and the players,” says master drumme