"I am consciously not trying to bring in World Music elements. The ways that I work and feel are completely different in how they sound than someone playing the Kora in Africa would play it"
About this Quote
In the given quote, Joanna Newsom, a renowned artist known for her complex compositions and eclectic musical impacts, articulates a mindful decision to steer away from including what is usually classified as "World Music" into her work. The phrase "World Music" frequently describes music that derives from non-Western customs or uses instruments and aspects not normally discovered in mainstream Western music. Newsom's assertion can be understood on several levels.
Firstly, by stating "I am purposely not trying to generate World Music aspects", Newsom highlights a deliberate avoidance of exoticism or cultural appropriation. This suggests an intentional effort to respect the authenticity and stability of different musical traditions without superficially implanting them onto her own work, which might be driven by a desire to preserve creativity and authenticity in her artistry.
Secondly, she contrasts her techniques and feelings with those of somebody "playing the Kora in Africa". The Kora, a standard string instrument mainly connected with West Africa, represents a cultural and musical heritage deeply ingrained in specific social, historical, and geographical contexts. Newsom seems to acknowledge that her own musical expression, formed by various impacts and experiences, naturally diverges in noise and approach. This difference highlights the uniqueness of specific creative voices and the intricacies of mixing diverse musical traditions authentically.
Moreover, this viewpoint can be seen as a critique of how globalization and commercialization can cause a homogenization of music, where unique cultural expressions might get decreased to mere fashionable elements. Newsom's approach highlights a regard for the extensive cultural significance of musical types like the Kora and highlights her dedication to developing her musical identity without exploiting elements of other cultures for novelty or shallow diversity.
In essence, Newsom's statement reflects a thoughtful engagement with concerns of cultural integrity, authenticity, and creative individuality, emphasizing the significance of producing music that really represents one's own experiences and affects without co-opting others wrongly.
More details
About the Author