The music that has emerged from Aboriginal communities is as diverse as the people themselves and has a wide appeal to listeners of various musical genres. Many Aboriginal musicians have been influenced by non-Indigenous music, creating their own works in other music styles and genres. In some instances, they incorporate texts, narratives, instruments and singing styles that reflect their Indigeneity, whereas other times musicians create music that is not identifiably Indigenous. The recognition of Aboriginal popular music genres corresponded with increased awareness of Indigenous social issues by non-Aboriginal people in the 1960s and 1970s.
Especially in the 21st century, social commentary has become a feature of some Aboriginal popular music. War Party, a rap group from Hobbema, Alberta, used their lyrics to address life on the reserve from the perspective of Aboriginal youth. Ottawa-based A Tribe Called Red to use their powwow-inspired dance music to counter the appropriation, subjugation and diminishment of Aboriginal people in popular culture.
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