Have you ever wondered what type of music people from Cambodia, Jamaica, or even South Sudan listen to? Or what beats or melodies lie deep within their music?

 Many places have a majestic story to the start of music in their region or country. However, this is not the case with Cambodia and the spread of music in this country.

 The musical history of Cambodia is a violent one; most of the musicians and singers died in the mass murders during the Khmer Rouge Regime. However, traditional, classical, and folk music still existed. Western music arrived in Cambodia during the nineteenth century. The popular Western music of Cambodia lasted during the golden era of the 50s and 60s. It then went on to influence the music and dance of Cambodia during the 90s. The music of the deceased artists from the Khmer Regime still lives on in Cambodia to this day.

 Another country that has had a rough music upbringing is Sudan. It was once Africa’s largest country and was a melting pot for Arabian and African cultures.  In spite of that, in 2011, the southern region of the country gained its independence. South Sudan became the world’s youngest country. Between World War I and II, modern urban music started to form in the country. Khalil Farah was known for his activism in the independence movement, but he was also known for being the father of the contemporary Sundanese music. He was the still of the modern changes to music in the country. Despite the country’s’ political issues within itself, National Music Festivals were relaunched and concerts are attended by thousands of people.

 Jamaica, the tiny yet globally known island, has played an influential part in the changes of music around the world. Being the birthplace of the iconic reggae artist, Bob Marley, the island is known for its party-like and folk music. Nowadays, the island is known for its dance hall and dub music. Jonathan Crews, junior, said, “Dance hall music always puts me in a good mood. That type of music is always played at parties.” Colonization was brought to the island by European and Spanish explorers. The Rastafari religion has a major influence on the musical aspects of Jamaica. Rastas hold reasoning sessions, where they discuss life and religion, and music plays a major part in these meetings.

All of these places have stories behind their music. They have all impacted the musical cultures of the countries they border and the regions they are near.