Impact of Latin America on United States Popular Culture

Not only has the United States had a lot of influence on Latin American society and culture, but Latin America too has had a huge influence on the popular culture here in the U.S. One of the clearest examples of this is the increasing popularity of Latin dances in the United States. Not only are ballroom dancers now dancing the sensual and beautiful Latin American Dances, but also many everyday people go to enjoy the rhythmical beats of the Latin sound. Many people take salsa lessons or go to Latin clubs to enjoy the relaxed environment and also its upbeat style. It is now one of the United States’ most popular dancing styles. Ever since the Macarena first came out many years ago, the rising popularity of Latin music in the United States has boomed.

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George Lopez is a Mexican-American comedian and actor, and one of the most prominent entertainers of Hispanic heritage to be recognized in mainstream American pop culture. He was born in Mission Hills, California and built his career on jokes based on his life growing up in a Mexican community. He was a successful comedian by the late 1980s, performing in clubs around the nation and appearing on television shows and specials. He also formed a film career with comedies such as “Ski Patrol” in 1990 and, most recently, “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” in 2008. He is most widely known for his television series “George Lopez,” which made him one of the few Latinos to star in a series, following the footsteps of Desi Arnaz and Freddie Prinze. He has truly been a role model with his ability to make comedy out of his real-life tragedies and his several philanthropic endeavors.

Below is a list of his awards and accomplishments:

• Imagen Vision Award
• Latino Spirit Award for Excellence in Television
• National Hispanic Media Coalition Impact Award
• Spirit of Liberty Award
• Recognized by Time magazine as one of "The 25 Most Influential Hispanics In America"

When it comes to fashion in the United States, New York City is no stranger. But who are the women walking the run way? You would think in the United States, the models would be blond or brunette and white. But now a days, most models in the industry are Latin American. The most popular ethnicity in 2007 for models was Brazilian. For example, one of the highest paid and most recognized models is Gisele Bundchen who comes from Brazil. Another is Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosio. Designers not only choose people to represent their creations by their height and weight but also now by their nationality. Latin America and especially Brazil is greatly influencing the United States in fashion and models.

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In the world of entertainment, music from Latin American and Caribbean artists have had a definite impact on the United States' popular culture. From Grammy winning artists such as Ricky Martin and Selena, Latin music and rhythms have capture American audiences like no other.

Before her tragic death, Selena became the "Queen of Tejano music" as she captured numerous audiences throughout the states. Born from Mexican parents, Selena was born as an American citizen and live here most of her life. Yet although of her American tendencies, she had Mexican and true Tejan

o blood which she portrayed through her music. Selena inspired and shocked many people with her captivating and romantic lyrics while dancing with that Spanish flavor that we all love.

From Menudo to "Livin' la vida loca" the Puerto Rican Grammy award winning artist, Ricky Martin, has swung his hips and captivated audiences all around the world. His influence in the United States came with his first English album release where he sang "Livin la vida loca" and the premiered the hit for the FIFA World Cup "The Cup of Life."

His Latin moves and charisma have led him to be that catalyst for appreciation and somewhat acceptance of Spanish music in America throughout the twentifirst century.

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