【2026】The State of World Music Now: Introducing Masterpieces to Enjoy Diverse Musical Cultures

SakuraTakumi Masanori

Sakura – Masa Takumi (65th Grammy Winning song )

Masanori Takumi, who won a Grammy Award for his music that fuses traditional Japanese instruments with contemporary production, released the album Sakura in September 2022.

Its title track is an instrumental piece that incorporates traditional instruments such as the koto, shamisen, and erhu, while adding a beat designed with global listeners in mind.

Infused with the hope that, even amid sorrow around the world, people will let beautiful flowers bloom in their hearts, the piece evolves from a serene opening into growing dynamism, evoking both Japanese sentiment and an international scope.

It’s a recommended listen when you want to be enveloped by tones where tradition and innovation intersect.

Margapati

Margapati — Tari Bali

“Margapati” is one of the most renowned pieces in Balinese gamelan music, said to have been created in 1942 by I Nyoman Kaler.

The theme of the work is the “King of the Forest,” famed for its valor in Balinese dance.

The swirling layers of resonant bronze percussion evoke the king’s majesty and vitality, drawing listeners into the heart of a mystical ritual.

The sight of women performing in male roles is strikingly sensual, powerful, and beautiful, and even the music alone is perfect for moments when you want to step away from the everyday for an otherworldly trip, or when you wish to immerse yourself in creative work.

Udan Mas

Udan Mas

This is a traditional Javanese piece with the beautiful name “Golden Rain.” In contrast to its dazzling title, its somewhat wistful, heart-piercing melody is striking.

It is often performed as a finale to mark the end of rituals or dances, evoking the quiet after lively festivities and a nostalgia for time gone by.

The mysterious resonance of bronze percussion instruments seems to transport listeners to another world.

The performance included on the landmark 1971 recording Javanese Court Gamelan, compiled by scholar Robert E.

Brown, is known as a representative recording of this work.

It’s a perfect piece for opening the door to the ethereal world of gamelan music.

I recommend immersing yourself in its sound in a quiet space.

Wilujeng

Sarwo Laras – Wilujeung [Traditional Music]

This piece, long cherished and performed in Central Java, Indonesia, carries a ceremonial character.

From the smooth introduction led by the bowed string instrument rebab, the gradual addition of chorus and various percussion creates a compelling layering of sound.

Imbued with wishes for “safety” and “happiness,” it has a gentle warmth that seems to embrace the listener.

Passed down as traditional music, its performances have been preserved not as commercial recordings but through sources like radio broadcast tapes.

It follows a form based on a 32-beat cycle, whose complex rhythms produce a pleasing, multi-layered resonance.

Try listening when you want to calm your mind or when you’re welcoming a new beginning.

Prahu LayarKi Nartosabdho

Nella Kharisma – Prau Layar | Dangdut [OFFICIAL]

This is a single released in 2006, composed by Ki Nartosabdo, a musician who brought innovation to Indonesian tradition.

Also known as a narrator for shadow-puppet theater, Ki Nartosabdo created many signature pieces, and an alternate version of this song was released in July 2000.

Written as a “play song,” it evokes a peaceful scene of heading out to sea by boat on a holiday and laughing together with friends.

Its friendly melody has a pop-like quality and seems to free the heart from the bustle of everyday life.

With no complex development, it’s an easy introduction to the sound of gamelan for first-time listeners.

A perfect number for when you want to take it easy.

Whirl-y-Reel 1Afro Celt Sound System

Afro Celt Sound System – Whirl-Y-Reel 1 – Barbican, London – October 2016

Afro Celt Sound System is a multinational group formed around Simon Emmerson and active primarily in the UK.

“Whirl-y-Reel 1” is a track from their 1996 album Volume 1: Sound Magic.

Sweet lullabyDeep Forest

Deep Forest – Deep Forest Sweet Lullaby official video

Deep Forest is a musical duo consisting of Michel Sanchez and Éric Mouquet.

“Sweet Lullaby” is a track from their debut album, “Deep Forest,” and in Japan it was once used in a Honda commercial.