From the article: World Music Myths - Busted!
We've all heard the myths about world music before: world music is only for hippies, world music is boring, world music is just a bunch of drumming and chanting and doesn't fit into my life, and so on. But we, die-hard world music fans, know better than this, and we're here to set the record straight! Share your least favorite world music myth, and then bust it right to pieces! Set Them Straight!
The name: world music
- The myth: this music is universally called 'world' music. It's not called that widely anywhere but the US. Other places describe this as 'international' music, or take the time to identify its individual country of origin. In calling it 'world' music, US Americans seem to be wanting to make some clear separation between their own native music and music from anywhere beyond the borders. Which, of course, can't be done - even jazz and the blues, two genres US Americans claim as their very own, have their origin in the 'world' music of West Africa.
- —Guest Cheryl
It's not "pop"ular
- It is "pop"ular where it comes from. Sometimes: Baaba Maal, Mahmoud Ahmed, Flaco Jimenez... world stars!! Just because they choose not to sing in english, and pander to 'American Idol' audiences, doesn't mean they aren't selling tons of records.
- —Guest larry english
It all comes from outside the USA
- It doesn't! Lots of people have moved to the USA and kept their native musics alive. Maybe they have even transformed to something less definable and more interesting.
- —Guest larry english
Celtic Music - not just for the Irish
- I am constantly amazed that people think that Celtic music is just Irish music. Yes, there will always be Irish Celtic stars, but there are 7 Celtic nations with thei own traditions, plus the music and fusions of the Celtic diaspora. And I am frequently surprised that people think you have to be Celtic to love the music -- it's very accessible for everyone!
- —Guest Patricia
Whites Can't Play or Like African Music
- This seems to be a big stereotype. Like music has a color or a race.
- —Guest paulatreides
