Drawing inspiration from Bomba and the Island’s African ancestry, Plena mixes music, dance, and storytelling into one incredible cultural expression that brings people together. Dating to the late 19th and early 20th century, Plena is one of the pillars of native Puerto Rican music, fusing different aspects of the Island’s culture into a beautiful and passionate performance. Feel the rhythm of this vibrant genre of music and learn more about its history and where you can go to experience it for yourself.
What is Plena?
Closely related to Bomba, Plena is another style of music inspired by Puerto Rico’s African heritage. Plena was born in the working-class neighborhoods of Ponce, particularly in the San Antón neighborhood, often mentioned in the lyrics of popular plena songs. Similar to Bomba, there is an element of improvisation and dance, with its focus more on the storytelling of the lyrics rather than the musical dialogue between the dancer and musicians that we see in Bomba.
Plena was also known as "el periodico cantado" (the sung newspaper) because the lyrics often talked about the history and everyday life of the people. The lyrics drip with sarcasm, irony, and humor, serving as a way to empower the poor and working-class communities and share their stories and culture. After some pushback and censorship during the 1920s, this genre broke into the mainstream in the 1930s, cementing its importance and cultural status. Some songs, like “Cortaron a Elena,” “Que bonita bandera,” “Temporal,” and more, have become iconic and continue to be sung today.
The History of Plena
The origins of Plena can be traced back to the late 19th century in Puerto Rico, particularly to the Southern region of the Island. It emerged as a form of social commentary and resistance among the working class, particularly in the urban areas of Ponce. Plena gatherings held in local cafetines (small cafes) provided a space for people to come together, share their stories, and express their concerns through music and dance.
The genre faced criticism and resistance during the early 20th century because songs would address a wide range of topics, including poverty, inequality, love, politics, and even gossip. Broader acceptance came after the 1930s, thanks to Plena's ability to connect with people on a personal level, which contributed to its enduring popularity.
The Instruments of Plena
Plena music is characterized by its lively and rhythmic sounds, showcasing its roots in Bomba. Percussion instruments take center stage in this genre, featuring panderetas—small tambourines with jingles, maracas—shakers crafted from gourds filled with seeds or beads, and güiros—a gourd-shaped instrument originating from the Indigenous Taíno people, played by scraping its notched surface.
Plena also showcases other instruments like guitars and accordions.
The Cultural Legacy of Plena
As one of Puerto Rico’s native musical traditions, Plena has also served as melodic inspiration for generations. Just like Bomba, we can see the musical influence of Plena in Salsa, Latin Jazz, and Reggeatón thanks to its influences of Puerto Rican jíbaros, Caribbean immigrants, and native Afro-Latinos.
Plena’s humble roots and diverse sound are a mirror of Puerto Rico’s culture—a mix of Spanish, Taíno, and African traditions blended into one unique combination.
Where Can You Enjoy Plena in Puerto Rico?
- Attend a plena festival: Puerto Rico hosts several Plena festivals throughout the year, like the Festival de Bomba y Plena de San Antón and Festival de Bomba y Plena in Loíza. Enjoy live music, dance performances, and cultural activities!
- Visit a plena bar or club: Many bars and clubs in San Juan, like el Boricua in Rio Piedras, and other cities offer live Plena groups playing live music on weekends.
- Take a plena dance class: Learn the steps and rhythms of Plena by taking a dance class with a local instructor, like at Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena and others.
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