Máximo Jiménez pays tribute to the composers who defined the Dominican musical identity
Journalist and art critic Máximo Jiménez presented his most recent literary work titled Composers of Dominican Popular Music, a deep research project that documents the legacy of the creators who have shaped our sonic identity. This book is emerging as a fundamental piece for understanding the evolution of merengue, bachata, bolero, and the ballad in the country.
The work analyzes 85 key figures in music, especially highlighting those authors who were fundamental pieces during the golden age of merengue in the 80s, a period that Jiménez defines as a moment of unprecedented authorial brilliance.
The sociocultural phenomenon of the golden age of merengue in the eighties was not a fortuitous accident of the industry, but the direct consequence of brilliant songwriting craftsmanship. Behind every frenetic arrangement and every catchy lyric, there existed a body of composers who knew how to translate the feelings of the Dominican people into universal narratives.
Máximo Jiménez, author of the work.
A meeting between musical generations
The presentation, held at the Juan Lockward café theater of the National Theater, turned into a dynamic discussion. The event featured the participation of singer-songwriters Badir and Mariano Lantigua, leader of Aljadaqui, who shared their perspective on musical quality and the impact of compositions in the current landscape.
During the event, the author made a symbolic presentation of copies to prominent figures in the music industry and renowned composers, including:
- Kinito Méndez, president of SGACEDOM.
- Pochy Familia, honorary advisor.
- Valerio de León, former president of SGACEDOM.
- Renowned authors such as Charlie Mosquea, Miguel Braho, René Solís, and Olga Lara.
Legacy and trajectory
This book constitutes the second volume of Crónica Editorial and joins the celebrations of the second anniversary of the weekly newspaper La Crónica. With an editorial design by Willy Abreu, the publication has the support of various institutions and companies committed to the preservation of Dominican culture.
Máximo Jiménez, former president of Acroarte and author of previous literary successes on the bachata genre, continues to establish himself as one of the most authoritative voices in the research and dissemination of popular music in the Dominican Republic.
