World Music and Globalization

            World music and globalization of world music is becoming one of the most controversial topics in today's world. Many argue that the term "world music" is a restrictive ghettoization of all music that is non-western and even go to the extent to argue that western recording companies are cultural imperialists that deliberately strip nations of their cultural identities by exploiting their traditional music for their own financial benefit. While the classification of world music is problematic, for many, world music represents much of what is right in the world. World music has the ability to help others learn about and identify with various cultures – creating this universal hope for mankind that sharing music brings people closer together. However, critics disagree with concept of globalization of world music, fearing that the distribution of music through recording companies, and advancement of music technology will eventually homogenize distinct cultures into a global monoculture. In my opinion, I see the positive aspects of world music allowing for the development of social and cultural interconnections between people and the music of the world. I distinguish world music as a globalized phenomenon that allows for more people to be able to listen to and access different styles of music around the world due to effective market strategies and advancement of technology. .
             In Bohlman's excerpt, he explains how world music goes beyond local, ethnic, national and religious communities to establish deeper levels of connection between people through music (Bolhman, 2002, Preface). This is why it is no surprise that world music is a highly profitable industry that it is today because world music has so many variations within its "catch-all" phrase that there is a type to relate to the diverse tastes and preferences of many different audiences. Due to the overwhelming evidence presented regarding the positive aspects of globalization through world music, it is difficult to grasp that the creation of world music started off as a marketing strategy.