Defining World Music

I would define world or global music as music that is distinct and popular to a particular region, culture, or country. It may incorporate particular languages, modes, rhythms, instruments, or lyrical themes that are popular to that area.

After listening to all of the songs on npr's "Latitudes: 10 Favorite Global Music Picks From 2015," I picked this song, "Blackbird" by Sam Lee. With famous musicians from across the pond (such as Van Morrison, U2, Susan Boyle, Mumford and Sons, and Ed Sheeran, to name a few) garnering much popularity among Americans, the U.S. is no stranger to British music. However, "Blackbird," a traditional Irish ballad, is different. Folk songs, like this, pay homage to a country's or culture's musical traditions. Not only is the language (while still English) of "Blackbird" fairly different than the 21st century vernacular, but so is the musical style. Two aspects are the great use of vocal ornamentation, typical of Irish folk music and the minor key that is used. Lee's version also sets it apart from the traditional with the use of the piano and trumpet in the background.