Popular Music

Outside influences on Polynesia n music began in the 1700s with European explorers’ bands. But it was not until Christian missionaries introduced hymns that profound changes began to occur. Other, more secular, music brought changes throughout the 1800s and 1900s, especially rock and country from the United States and cabaret music from France. During this time, interisland influences occurred, especially from Hawai‘i to other parts of Oceania. Much of this music, using guitars,...