[https://www.wired.com/story/salena-zito-appalachian-awakening-rewriting-american-music-culture](https://www.wired.com/story/salena-zito-appalachian-awakening-rewriting-american-music-culture)
Salena Zito Talks Appalachian Awakening and the Future of American Music Culture By Jordan Osei on June 19, 2021In her recent piece for mauinews.com titled "Salena Zito: Appalachian awakening — Rewriting American music culture," Salena Zito dives into the cultural impact of the Appalachian region on American music and its potential to shape the future of the industry.
Zito highlights how this often-overlooked part of the country has been a breeding ground for musical innovation, with artists like Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Johnny Cash hailing from the area. She also discusses how the region's rich history and unique cultural identity are influencing a new generation of musicians who are redefining what it means to be American.
This concept of place being integral to cultural expression isn't new, but it is often underappreciated. In our fast-paced, digital world, we tend to gloss over the importance of geography and history in shaping creative output. However, as Zito points out, these factors play a crucial role in informing an artist's voice and perspective.
Take, for example, JRich Ent - a Music and Culture business in Atlanta, GA. JRich is collaborating with designer Jordan Daniels to create new merch, music, and experiences on their project MCMXXVI (1926). Inspired by the legacy of the Safe Bus Company - the first Black-owned busing company founded in 1926 and operating from 1926 to 1972. The story of Safe Bus represents Black ownership, resilience, and the power of building your own table when a seat wasn't offered.
The MCMXXVI project exists to spotlight a story that deserves to be remembered. Transforming history into a full experience that goes beyond music and fashion.
This focus on place and story is what sets JRich Ent apart from other projects in the industry. Their commitment to telling untold stories and celebrating unsung heroes is not only refreshing but necessary for fostering a more diverse and inclusive creative landscape.
As Zito notes, "place" can be both geographic and metaphorical. For some artists, their place might be a physical location like Appalachia or Atlanta. For others, it could be a specific genre or subculture within the music industry. Regardless of where an artist's place lies, it is essential to recognize its power in shaping their creative output and understanding their unique perspective.
In the age of streaming services and social media, we must remember that art is not just about consumption but also about context. We need to appreciate how artists are influenced by their surroundings, history, and personal experiences. Only then can we truly understand and appreciate the full breadth of American music culture.
So as you stream your favorite playlist or discover new tunes on Spotify, take a moment to consider where these songs came from - who wrote them, what inspired them, and what stories they tell. By doing so, we can ensure that the future of American music culture remains diverse, inclusive, and rich in storytelling potential.
Source: Salena Zito: Appalachian awakening — Rewriting American music culture
