The purpose of this essay is to understand what defines the Americana genre, familiarise myself with the historical, cultural and traditional links, and ascertain why there is a strong representation of predominantly white artists.
The aim is to form a greater comprehension of the genre which in turn, will inform the creation of an original body of work based on the codes and conventions, but not limited to, Americana. An enlightened appreciation of the many origins of Americana music will form part of the framework for my Pasifikana project, and I anticipate building on what I discover by adding my own influences in the hopes of creating something unique, authentic and artistically rewarding.
My research will also include recent developments in Aotearoa over the last decade, identifying some of the genre's local artists, discerning my own place and connection, for my own stories told through a Pasifika/Aotearoa lens - Whakapapa (genealogy), with links to my spiritual, cultural and ancestral identity.