Wait, There's More! JDub Speaks on World Music Ghetto/Meadow

I asked Aaron Bisman of JDub Records (Balkan Beat Box, Matisyahu, Golem, Socalled [pictured right], etc.) to help me summarize the "Breaking Out of the World Music Ghetto" discussion that took place two weeks ago and here is what he wrote in:

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Key ideas from the session:

- ghetto vs meadow. For some the niche label of ‘world’ is useful, for others it holds them back. It was a reminder that especially with non-english, non-mainstream pop culture, it's never one-size fits all. Every stage/city/artist has a different take on this and different needs in their path to success.

- Shouldn’t have to sing in english to get attention but it definitely helps.

- Need a hook to bring in wider audiences whether its covers of well known songs, or a simple descriptive tagline (ie Hasidic Reggae Superstar).

- don’t program for local/niche communities/ethnicities, program WITH them.  (include individuals or community organizations in your planning process.)  You get better buy in, better turn out, and sometimes, better content.

- consider new technology making real time translation available.   

Overall, what stood out for me was a commitment to music and culture as a powerful tool of communication and connection across often divisive lines.  It did not feel like a room of people trying to fill seats. It was a room of people dedicated to sharing quality music because of its social value.  I left feeling inspired to take on the work ahead.

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Thanks, Aaron, for the close and thoughtful listening and thorough round up!No wonder you are rockin' the metaphorical microphone.

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