Norah Nikhil Week 5: Americanness
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This past week I have found myself listening to songs by the Mexican American artist, Selena. She is remembered as an icon in the US who popularized Spanish songs to an American audience and is well known for her hits like “Como La Flor” and “No Me Queda Mas”. At the height of her fame in the 2000s, she was able to pack stadiums as large as 60,000 fans! As I listened to her songs in Spanish and looked at the topic for this quarter’s blogs, I realized something. Being American doesn’t come in one shape or size, because people of all different cultures and backgrounds are able to share this title. Even though Selena spoke a language that most would not associate with being American, today, she is still remembered as a beloved American icon. Today, in this country I feel like there is a climate that constantly debates whether or not someone is “American enough”. Can you tell if someone is American? Is it in their language? Their color? I feel like being American is not just about one culture or belief system, but a mosaic of different cultures and identities that come together to make America the melting pot of diversity that it is today. But many disagree with this simple idea. In fact, it was only a year ago when Bad Bunny performed at the halftime show with an array of songs in Spanish, when many critics in the audience argued that the language had no place at a loved American event. But when he performed and showcased Puerto Rican culture, I feel like in a weird way that it was so American. So many of the people that live on this soil are immigrants, with the most popular countries of origin being as near as Mexico or as far as India and China. There is no one type of beat, or language, or culture for us Americans. I think that a performance that celebrates the culture of even one part of the people, is a celebration of the very essence of what it is to be an American. So, today, as I listen to Selena’s soulful voice that continues to create an impact long after her death, I am reminded of the various communities and languages that are contained in the spirit of Americanness.
I couldn’t agree with you more. Even after all the anti-prejudice movements of the past, America can be surprisingly discriminatory at times. However, as America becomes more diverse, there is less and less of that sentiment as time goes on. I agree with your statement about America seemingly constantly asking if one is American. In contexts such as the NFL, a deeply American-rooted league, most people would expect those present and performing to have a high degree of “Americanness.” However, as I said before, America is progressing to a diverse future, so eventually it will be normal for anyone to appear in contexts such as the NFL. Bad Bunny’s halftime show is evidence of that progress. I love that you think his Puerto Rican-themed show felt American!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed how you used Selena and Bad Bunny to show that being American isn’t limited to one language, especially since they’re very recognizable celebrities. Your questioning of whether someone is “American enough” really stood out to me because it raises the question of who gets to define American identity in the first place. Speaking another or celebrating a different culture shouldn’t be the deciding factor; after all, isn’t America known for its diversity? I also think music is a powerful example because people can connect with a song’s emotions and message even if they don’t understand every word, which connected well to your description of America as a mosaic. This made me reflect on how people shouldn’t have to give up parts of their background to feel like they belong.
ReplyDeleteHey Norah! I also have been in a Selena phase as of late. Like, I am seriously OBSESSED with Como La Flor--I even sang it for a class karaoke during my Spanish 3 class last year. That was how much I loved it. It’s so unfortunate, knowing that she passed away due to gun violence, but you’re entirely correct in that her legacy and impact will live on through her music.
ReplyDeleteAlso, your realization about how American identity is a “mosaic” of sorts, not contained by some strict criteria, is brilliant! Just as Selena had her roots of stardom begin in America, so have many other aspiring arts who seek prestige and fame. These people are all American, even if their appearances vary, or if their mother tongues aren’t English. Sometimes, people are simply afraid of letting other racial groups take the spotlight, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that America really is a “melting pot of diversity”--a fact that we should all embrace. Although, like you said, cases such as the Super Bowl halftime show with Bad Bunny prove that everyone isn’t on board with the idea.
Still, I find it impressive how music manages to bring people of all backgrounds together. Perhaps you’re right, Norah--a celebration for one is a celebration for all! And that’s a part of what makes up the American spirit!