Music of the Dominican Republic: Merengue

Merengue had a slow start gaining popularity in the Latin music world. But today merengue's influence is felt everywhere that feet move and bodies sway to a Latin beat.

If you're not sure how you feel about merengue, or you like the music but feel you could never learn the dance, there's a wonderful DVD out called Mad, Hot, Ballroom. The film is a documentary about New York school children competing in ballroom dance events, but their love of merengue shines through the film with beacon-like intensity.

For all you merengue fans, be sure to check out my Top Ten Picks in this category.