Rompiendo la Rutina - Danzonete

In 1929, Cuban composer Aniceto Díaz forever changed the course of Cuban music with his groundbreaking danzón, "Rompiendo la Rutina." Unlike traditional instrumental danzones, Díaz introduced vocals into the genre for the first time, bridging the gap between the elegant ballroom style of danzón and the more expressive, lyrical qualities of later Cuban dance music.

Performed by a charanga francesa—a French-style Cuban ensemble—the piece featured a delicate yet infectious interplay of instruments: the bright flute weaving intricate melodies, the warm resonance of the violins, and the rhythmic foundation of the piano and bass guitar. The percussive elements, including timbales, güiro, and congas, infused the piece with the unmistakable pulse of Afro-Cuban rhythms, giving dancers an irresistible groove to follow.

With "Rompiendo la Rutina," Aniceto Díaz ushered in a new era, laying the groundwork for what would later evolve into the danzonete and influencing the rise of Cuban popular music. His innovation transformed the danzón from an instrumental dance form into a more expressive, dynamic genre that resonated deeply with audiences, ensuring its legacy in Cuban musical history.

This transcription is as recorded by Maestro Bobby Ramirez on his 2018 release entitled, "Yo Soy Ritmo! Danzón" for Cuban Charanga Francesa (French-style) band arrangement: piano, bass guitar, drum guide, flute and 2 violins.