My Playlist

Hey! Well, last blog post of the semester! We've covered a lot, but the map is still full of uncharted territory. This class has really opened my ears to how diverse global music is. For this final post, I'd like to talk about interesting sounds from places we missed. I chose songs that highlight both traditional and modern styles; each one shows how music connects people to their history and land. 

First, let's visit Asturias in Spain (Europe). 

Asturias is very special to me because it's where I live; it's the music I was born with. Located in the north of Spain, it has its own strong musical traditions, completely different from flamenco and other styles people often associate with Spain. It's a place full of traditions that people really care about. One of the most important parts of our culture is the "gaita asturiana" (asturian bagpipe). You can hear it at festivals, family parties, and even just walking around town sometimes. Its sound makes me feel so many things at once; every time I hear it, I feel proud of where I come from. It also makes me feel connected to my family and roots, like I'm part of something much bigger than just myself. Sometimes, it even makes me a little nostalgic. However, the "gaita" is not a perfect sound; it's strong and not everyone likes it so feel free to say what you think. This performance by José Ángel Hevia captures the spirit of Asturias perfectly in such a traditional way. 

Next, let's move to Italy (Europe). 

For this part, I chose Maneskin, a modern rock band from Rome. I picked them because they represent a new generation of Italian musicians who are making a big impact all over the world. Their music feels full of energy and freedom, and I really like how they mix their Italian spirit with international rock style. Even though most of their songs are modern, you can still hear something very Italian in the passion and emotion they put into every performance. I chose their song "Torna a casa" because it shows their emotional side too.  The song talks about missing someone and wanting to come back home, which is a feeling not everyone can understand. To me, Maneskin shows that Italian music is not only about tradition; it's also growing and reaching new places. 

Now, we head to Buenos Aires in Argentina (South America). 

When people think of Argentina, they often think of classic tango. Tango, born in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, is a dance and music genre full of passion and drama. While traditional tango features the "bandoneón" (a type of accordion), modern artists like Gotan Project fuse it with electronic beats, thereby creating "electrotango". I chose their track "Santa María (Del Buen Ayre)" because it keeps the essential spirit of tango while making it fresh for global audiences. Their song hooked me when it randomly played on a cafe playlist. Its evolution shows how tradition can stay alive through reinvention. 

Finally, to Japan (Asia). 

Japan has a deep musical history that blends old traditions with new styles. For this blog, I chose traditional Japanese music, focusing on the "koto", a string instrument with such a peaceful sound. The "koto" has been played in Japan for hundreds of years, often in palaces or at important ceremonies. I picked a piece by a famous player, Miyagi Michio, because his music feels calm but also emotional. When I listen to it, I imagine the feeling of being connected to nature. Traditional Japanese music often tries to capture the beauty of small moments. I think it's amazing how music that sounds so simple can hold so much feeling. 

I was amazed to see how traditions can either be preserved faithfully, like with the gaita, or transformed into something new, like Maneskin. No matter where you go in the world, music is always telling stories; sometimes old ones, sometimes new ones. I'm leaving this class with a bigger musical journey that I'm really proud of.