Dictionary

worldbeat en · NOUN

Etymology

From world + beat.

Meanings

1. (uncountable) A music genre that blends Western pop music with traditional folk music or world music.
   • Sawt El Atlas delivers what the worldbeat bands of the 80s couldn't: instead of being grafted onto native forms, the Western elements are seamlessly incorporated. 2001 July 13, Peter Margasak, “Sawt El Atlas”, in Chicago Reader:
   • Diners sit amongst peaceful concrete trees and plastic leaves, listening to soothing worldbeat music; renderings of globes appear throughout, as do references to FoodlifeUs massive recycling program and the healthiness of the establishment's victuals. 1996 April 12, Tom Frank, “Capital Lies: Swallow it Whole”, in Chicago Reader:
   • DJ King Scratch will spin worldbeat music all night, including Byron Lee's calypso, Machito's salsa, and Segun Adawale's African high-life. 1989 May 26, Achy Obejas, “Calendar”, in Chicago Reader:

Forms