Classic and popular recommendations in ethnic music
Ethnic music refers to traditional folk music.
It often features traditional, uncommon instruments from a given region, making it an especially recommended genre for those who play instruments.
This playlist is full of exotic charm that reflects the culture of each area!
If you find a track you like, be sure to go hear it performed live in its homeland.
Recommended classic and popular ethnic music (1–10)
You Raise Me UpKerutikku Ūman
There are many bands that incorporate elements of traditional Celtic music into pop, and Celtic Woman is one of them.
Their featured song, “You Raise Me Up,” has been used in figure skating and commercials, making it widely known in Japan.
Kalimba ManKepin Supiāsu
This is a contemporary piece that uses the kalimba, a traditional African instrument.
The kalimba, also known as a “thumb piano,” is said to be the origin of the music box.
These days, it can sometimes be found in variety stores, and the number of enthusiasts in Japan is growing.
May It BeEn’ya
It’s the theme song from the movie The Lord of the Rings.
The beautiful vocals are by Enya, who hails from Ireland and can be considered a pioneer among pop musicians with Celtic roots.
The multilayered, wind-like sound seems gently soothing to the heart.
Pilentze SingsBurugarian Voisu
This is unforgettable music performed by a Bulgarian women’s choir.
Its distinctive qualities include a chest-voice, forceful singing style reminiscent of Japanese folk songs, and the beauty of dissonance created by using many adjacent tones.
It has a mysterious resonance that stirs a sense of unease.
Harvest MoonNerugui Naranbaturafu
This is a piece featuring khöömii, a traditional Mongolian vocal technique.
Khöömii is said to involve singing with low and high tones produced simultaneously.
There are no lyrics; listeners are meant to savor the poignant melodies and the distinctive resonance unique to khöömii.
It’s a piece that pairs beautifully with the endlessly stretching grasslands and the blue sky.