World music

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WOMEX 15 - Budapest, 2015.10.22 (1)

Budapest Ritmo 2016

World music is a broad category that encompasses a wide range of music from around the globe, including traditional folk music, ethnic music, neo-traditional music, and music where more than one cultural tradition, such as non-Western music and Western popular music, intermingle. World music's origins are often traced back to the 1960s, but it gained significant commercial momentum in the 1980s with the help of musicians, record companies, and media outlets.

Origins and Development

The term "world music" was coined in the 1960s, but it wasn't until a meeting in 1987 at a London pub that the term was adopted by the music industry. This meeting, attended by record label executives, musicians, and media personnel, aimed to create a marketing category for non-Western traditional music. It was intended to provide a platform for artists from around the globe to share their traditions and reach a wider audience.

World music encompasses a variety of genres from different cultures, including African music, Latin American music, Asian music, and many others. It often involves fusion genres that blend elements from different cultures, such as Afrobeat, which combines Nigerian music with jazz and funk, or Latin jazz, which merges American jazz with rhythms from Caribbean and Latin American music.

Characteristics

World music is characterized by its diversity and the way it reflects the cultural, social, and political realities of different communities. Instruments unique to various cultures, such as the sitar from India, the kora from West Africa, or the didgeridoo from Australia, are often featured prominently. Lyrics may be in various languages, many of which are indigenous and may not be widely spoken outside of their native regions.

Impact and Criticism

World music has played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding. It has helped to preserve endangered music traditions and has provided a platform for marginalized artists to reach a global audience. However, the category has also faced criticism. Some argue that the term "world music" is a Western construct that lumps together diverse and distinct traditions, potentially exoticizing and commodifying non-Western cultures.

World Music in the Digital Age

The advent of the internet and digital music platforms has dramatically transformed the world music scene. Artists can now reach a global audience without the need for traditional record labels or marketing strategies. Social media and music streaming services have played a crucial role in the discovery and promotion of world music artists, allowing for a more direct connection between artists and listeners.

Conclusion

World music is a testament to the rich tapestry of global cultural expressions. It challenges listeners to broaden their musical horizons and fosters a greater appreciation for the diversity of human creativity. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, world music continues to evolve, embracing new sounds and technologies while remaining rooted in tradition.