There are so many things I miss about Guyana, one of the biggest being the music. Somehow finding a Soca party in Kansas, other than living room winding sessions, is impossible. While some of the western music found Guyanese fans (Celine Dion had a freakish following, which I hope to never understand) their heart’s followed the Caribbean beat.
As we progress down the seemingly inevitable path of globalization, it becomes increasingly important for cultural aspects, such as music, to avoid being swallowed to the belly of the western beast. There is an interesting article examining the correlation between economics and a countries ability to maintain cultural identity.
In particular it asserts that “the poorer a country, the more likely it will buy and listen to its own domestic music.” Because the production of music is relatively inexpensive, it remains more localized and is able to establish a strong foundation upon which the people find identity. This localization also allows artists to focus on issues relevant to the community, creating a generalized empathy with its listeners. Through this rooted identity, music styles not only withstand the invasion of western culture but even influencing our music. It has also been interesting to watch the Calypso and SoCa wind their way into American ears and become increasing mainstream, such as Sean Paul and Rihanna.
It is this equal melding of cultures which is so important to an increasing more connected and influential world. Fair Trade frequently helps to blend two cultures without determinate to one. Fair Trade artisans create products based in their culture’s arts and skills, and the opened western market allows mutual benefits. Through this exchange we are exposing our culture to others and allowing them to maintain the artistic heritage, without being forced to seek other means of providing for their families. I hope that fair trade offers cultures the same foundation found through their music, a foundation that allows cultures to inspire one another rather than change.
