"La Bamba" is a traditional Mexican folk song, a classic example of the son jarocho musical style from Veracruz. This style blends Spanish, indigenous, Afro-Mexican, and Afro-Caribbean elements, and is typically played with harps and string instruments. While the tune is consistent, the lyrics often vary as performers improvise. Los Lobos brought their rendition to international stardom when it became the title track for the 1987 film about Ritchie Valens, topping charts in many countries. Playing it connects you to a vibrant cultural tradition of improvisation and celebration.