Why it’s unique: Influences from United States/United Kingdom but also
from other Asian countries
Special characteristics: Lot of love songs; popular culture is intertwined with music since many popular songs are from soundtracks of movies or TV dramas
Instruments: gamelan, kendang
Songs: “Bawalah Cintaku”—Afgan, “Laskar Pelangi”—Nidji, “Sempurna”—Andra & the Backbone, “Terima Kasih Cinta”—Afgan, “Bukan Cinta Biasa”—Afgan
South Africa
Why it’s unique: Blend of influences from America/other English speaking countries and Africa; multilingual (like the country)
Special characteristics: Languages (especially English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa); indie music that isn’t well known outside of the country
Instruments: kalimba, mbira
Songs: “Teenagers”—Desmond and the Tutus, “Jika”—Mi Casa, “Run Jozi”—AKA , “Let’s Fall in Love, Some More”—Al Bairre, “Down South”—Jeremy Loops
Brazil
Why it’s unique: Different genres; represents a diverse population with lots of different tastes and interests; very distinct from other Latin American music (different language, instruments, styles, etc.)
Special characteristics: Specific genre called sertanejo is super popular; originated in the countryside; lyrics about life; typically performed by duos (usually male)
Instruments: pandero, reco-reco
Songs: “Chuva de Arroz”—Luan Santana, “Esqueci Voce?”—Henrique & Diego, “Essa Mina E? Louca”—Anitta, “Sossegui”—Jorge & Mateus, “Na?o Me Toca”—Ze? Felipe, “Roma?ntico Ano?nimo”—Marcos & Belutti
