MANO A MANO – Billie Brelok
The Roar of the Puma: A Brief History of Puma Music
While “Puma” may not be a recognized music genre in the traditional sense, there’s a surprising history and a few hilarious anecdotes connected to the iconic animal and its association with music.
Puma Power:
- The Puma as a Symbol: The puma, a symbol of strength, agility, and wildness, has captivated musicians throughout history. From Native American folklore to modern-day rock bands, the puma has inspired songs, album art, and even band names.
- Early Influences: The puma features prominently in the musical traditions of indigenous cultures throughout the Americas. It’s often found in songs, stories, and rituals celebrating its power and connection to the natural world.
- The Rock ‘n’ Roll Connection: The 1960s saw the rise of rock bands incorporating the puma into their imagery. The iconic “Puma” brand, known for its athletic shoes, became a symbol of rebellious youth and the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
Funny Puma Music Facts:
- The “Puma” Song: While not a popular hit, there’s a somewhat obscure song titled “Puma” by a band called “The Animals” (not to be confused with the British band “The Animals”). The lyrics describe a man who’s obsessed with a puma…and it’s surprisingly catchy.
- The “Puma” Dance: In the 1970s, there was a brief trend of a dance called the “Puma”. The dance involved a lot of crouching, leaping, and mimicking the movements of a puma…and it’s safe to say it didn’t catch on.
- The “Puma” Band: There’s a metal band called “Puma” based in Australia. While their music is quite heavy, their website includes photos of the band members wearing adorable “Puma” sneakers.
- The “Puma” Songwriting Contest: Believe it or not, there was a songwriting contest for musicians to write songs about “Puma” athletic shoes. The winning song was quite upbeat and included the line “I’m wearing my Puma shoes, feeling good, feeling new.”
The Legacy of the Puma:
The puma, despite not having a dedicated musical genre, continues to appear in music, art, and culture. While its presence in the music world may be quirky and somewhat obscure, the puma’s association with strength, freedom, and the wild spirit continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.