Cumana (song)
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"Cumana" is a mambo tune written by jazz pianist Barclay Allen,[1][2] together with Harold Spina and Roc Hillman and released by Barclay Allen's Rhythm Four on Capitol 15107 in 1947.[3] Allen also recorded the tune with Freddy Martin And His Orchestra later in the year for RCA.[4]
The song is sometimes referred to Cumaña, Cumaná or La Cumana and described as a boogie.[1]
Description
Its signature riff is a fast moody change between two chords (chiefly F minor 6, or its tritone substitution, and C minor seventh) with some syncopation added.[5] This tune, in its original context, is in the key of E Flat major with some parts sounding like they come from the relative key of C minor. The suggested tempo is 180 beats per minute, and this song in its original context takes about three and a half minutes to play, taking all repeats.[citation needed]
Reception and legacy
The song is described as a "big band hit".[6][7] The RCA version was described as "spin[ning] in the lively samba rhythm, Martin showcas[ing] the nimble keyboarding of Barclay Allen in fine style".[8]
The song, described as a classic from the Hispanic repertoire, was frequently played by Liberace.[9] Milton Nascimento also played the song on tour.[10]
"La Cumana" has been featured on several episodes of The Lawrence Welk Show.[citation needed]