Mambo/on2: Javi & Judith in Genova, Italy (SalsaOn2 Congress). "Pachanga y Charanga" by Cuba Libre

Festival: SalsaOn2 Congress 2025 (September 25-28)
Song Credit: Pachanga y Charanga by Cuba Libre Son Band

What is Mambo/on2?
New York Salsa, also known as Salsa On 2 or Mambo, is a style of salsa dancing originating in New York City, characterized by dancing in a linear slot, breaking forward on the second beat of the music (count 2) for the follower and count 6 for the leader, and incorporating shines (solo footwork). This style is a fusion of Cuban dances like mambo and son with American influences such as swing and tap, and was popularized by Eddie Torres. It is known for its elegance, precision, complex footwork, and sharp turns, often danced by more advanced dancers.

Key Characteristics
Dancing on 2: The defining feature of New York Style is that the dancers execute their "break step" on the second beat of the music.

Linear Style: Unlike some other styles of salsa, New York Style is danced in a straight line, often referred to as dancing "in the slot".

Shines: There is a significant emphasis on shines, where partners separate to perform intricate solo footwork and styling.

Fusion of Styles: It blends elements of Cuban dances like mambo, son, and rumba with American dances such as swing and tap.

Musicality: Dancers often feel New York Style is more musical because its timing closely aligns with the tumbao and clave musical patterns common in salsa music.

Elegance and Precision: The style emphasizes smooth, stylish, and elegant moves, with sharp turns and dramatic flair.

Origins and Popularization
New York Roots: Salsa music and dance styles developed in New York City, particularly influenced by the Puerto Rican community.

Eddie Torres: The "Mambo King," Eddie Torres, is credited with formalizing the On 2 timing and popularizing it through his teaching and instructional tapes.

Hustle Influence: The emergence of the Hustle in the 1970s significantly influenced the development of On 2 salsa, contributing to its dynamic nature.

How to understand the timing:
All salsa music is based on an eight-count rhythm: 1-2-3-4, 5-6-7-8.
In New York Style, dancers listen for the first beat (count 1) to know when to move, but the break step actually occurs on the second beat (count 2).
The follower steps forward on beat 2, while the leader steps forward on beat 6