The countries encompassing the Asian continent are not only diverse in traditions and customs but in music as well. The cultural and musical traditions of Asia have been influenced by five distinct cultures: Chinese, Indian, Islamic, European and Central Asian. China represents a large influence in the development of many cultures, including Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese. However, each country has been able to attain its own distinct style of music apart from China and other influences. Today, music in Asia is a mix of traditional folk music and contemporary urban music influenced by other parts of the world such as the United States, Africa and Latin America. For more information on Chinese music or world music, click on the Chinese Music Web Site or the World Music Web Site.
Revolutionary music has always inspired people to fight for a cause and purpose. This is a music clip from the song "The kindness of Mao".
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Patriotism is a feeling that transcends to all cultures and societies. Chinese patriotism like American or British is most identified through the National Anthem. This music clip is from the Chinese National Anthem.
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Kodo is the premier group of musicians dedicated to Taiko, the traditional Japanses drums. Its dedication on preserving Taiko has enabled Kodo to travel all over the world. In their compulation album Best of Kodo, one can listen to an excerpt from the song "Irodori" arranged by Leonard Eto which was previously recorded in their 1990 album Irodori, available on TriStar Music Records.
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Japanese music includes many genres, from folk, art, religious to theatre and narrative chanting. Its diversity can also be seen in the different musical instruments used. In this excerpt, "Azuma Jishi" (Azuma Lion Dance), one can listen to vocals as well as three traditional Japanese instruments: Koto, Shamisen, and Shakuhachi. This excerpt is from the album, Japan: Traditional Vocal & Instrumental Music, Shakuhachi, Biwa, Koto, Shamisen and the soloists of the Ensemble Nipponia which is distributed by Elektra Asylum Nonesuch Records 1976.
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With her soft and passionate voice, Mariya Takeuchi has redefined Japanese pop music. Listen to an excerpt from the song "Eki" in her album Request distributed by Alfa Moon Records 1987.
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The first music clip has a smooth and hip hop sensation. second excerpt is from a song with an upbeat and disco house feeling that is sure to make you dance. Both music clips are on the album Kim Gunmo .
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Click here to download music clip
This first music clip is a light and upbeat song with a touch of house music.The secon clip comes from the song "Game of ROK: Republic of Korea". Both are available on the album Shin Seung Hun V.
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Click here to download music clip