Tango

Tango originated in the late 19th century in the working-class districts of Buenos Aires, where a rather inventive mix of African, European, and even indigenous music styles were thrown together like a musical stew, and surprisingly delicious it turned out to be. With dramatic melodies, syncopated rhythms, and enough feeling to out-emote a soap opera star, tango can either make you want to dance cheekily or weep into your pastis. The genre has since pirouetted its way into popular culture, influencing everything from film scores to the occasional wedding playlist—because nothing says romance like a tango and a slightly awkward shuffle to the buffet.