El vallenato is a music genre from the Caribbean region of Colombia that combines Aboriginal, African and Indigenous rhythms and instruments with European musical traditions. Known for its cheerful melodies and troubadour-like verses, legend has it that el vallenato originated during a duel between a versador and the devil himself. Today, thanks to internationally acclaimed artists like Carlos Vives, el vallenato has taken hold across Latin America, particularly in countries like Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador and Mexico. Click play to learn more about the vallenato's legendary origins and musical tradition!