Music + Timing
Understanding the music is what separates good dancers from great ones. Learn the clave, count On2, and feel the rhythm.
The Clave
The clave is the rhythmic heartbeat of salsa music. It's a five-note pattern that repeats throughout the song and guides both the musicians and dancers.
2-3 Clave
Two hits in the first bar, three in the second
3-2 Clave
Three hits in the first bar, two in the second
Don't stress: You don't need to consciously identify the clave to dance well. But understanding it deepens your connection to the music over time.
Counting On2
Here's the basic On2 step broken down by beat. The "break" (direction change) happens on 2 and 6.
Leader's Basic Step
Step back (left)
Replace (right)
Step forward (left)
Hold
Step forward (right)
Replace (left)
Step back (right)
Hold
Key insight: On beat 2, the leader steps back with their left foot (breaking backward), and on beat 6, they step forward with their left foot (breaking forward). The follower does the opposite.
Recommended Playlists
Classic NY Mambo
The songs that defined the Palladium era and modern mambo.
- Ran Kan Kan - Tito Puente
- Quimbara - Celia Cruz
- Bruca Manigua - Arsenio Rodriguez
Modern On2 Favorites
Contemporary tracks that On2 dancers love at socials.
- Vivir Mi Vida - Marc Anthony
- La Bilirrubina - Juan Luis Guerra
- Quimbara - Spanish Harlem Orchestra
Slow Practice Songs
Slower tempos perfect for beginners learning timing.
- Llorarás - Oscar D'León
- Todo Tiene Su Final - Héctor Lavoe
- Periódico de Ayer - Héctor Lavoe
Spotify playlists coming soon. For now, search these artists and songs.
Songs for Beginners
These songs have clear timing, moderate tempos, and are perfect for practicing your On2 basic step at home.
Llorarás
Oscar D'León
Clear conga pattern, moderate tempo, easy to hear the 2
Todo Tiene Su Final
Héctor Lavoe
Classic salsa dura with prominent tumbao
La Murga
Willie Colón
Slower tempo, very clear timing
Quimbara
Celia Cruz
Iconic song with clear percussion breaks