world fusion
what it is
World fusion music is a subcategory of world music, blending musical traditions from around the world, and possibly mixing them with modern music such as jazz or rock. The term was coined in 1978 by Matthew Montfort, leader of Ancient Future, and has since become a standard term used in the music industry. In his book, "Ancient Traditions -- Future Possibilities," Montfort defines world fusion music as "music that combines ideas from many of the earth's traditions.
✦ start here: albums
✦ who's making it, level by level
level 3 · one step out
cult favorites and indie darlings
level 4 · further
art pop, hyperpop, and the underground
level 5 · all the way
deep experimental
✦ make world fusion a playlist
turn these 20 artists into something you can press play on.
✦ nearby genres
questions
What is world fusion?
World fusion music is a subcategory of world music, blending musical traditions from around the world, and possibly mixing them with modern music such as jazz or rock. The term was coined in 1978 by Matthew Montfort, leader of Ancient Future, and has since become a standard term used in the music industry. In his book, "Ancient Traditions -- Future Possibilities," Montfort defines world fusion music as "music that combines ideas from many of the earth's traditions.
What are good world fusion albums to start with?
Try 暁 by 志方あきこ, Ya Nass by Yasmine Hamdan, Irfan by Irfan, and Morrocan Roll by Brand X.
Who are some women making world fusion?
musicisforgirls.com/genres/world-fusion/girls lists women, non-binary artists, and bands with women making world fusion, from mainstream to underground.
genre notes from last.fm listeners · artists and albums from last.fm, updated 2026-10-20