Word music is generally viewed as indigenous music, or music that uses the sounds or instrumentation of indigenous people as opposed to Anglo-American music. The transmission of products from dominant nations creates a kind of cultural imperialism were the views, ideas and practices of the origin are endorsed (Shuker, 2002). It could be for this reason that the term world music has emerged, people trying to retain their original culture as Anglo-American culture is imported. However the term world music is quite ridiculous as all music is from the world, and it only seems to be given to music that can’t be categorised easily. For example Celine Dion’s music which is sung in French is still considered to be a pop music and not world music. The label ‘World Music’ could simply be a way for the record companies to categorise and market music that would otherwise be hard to sell.
Well argued.
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