Brazilification of Western Media

While many, including myself in an earlier post, have, at least partially, accredited the development of funk to the extremely influential growth of hip hop in the United States, it has recently been dishing out its own influence all over the world. For example, Diplo, an immensely famous American DJ, has begun to play funk songs at his concerts which are held all over the world to sold out audiences. He has also begun participating in a documentary called "Favela on Blast" which chronicles the rise of this music. Even CNN has become involved, taking to the streets of Rocinha to interview funk performers and get information on the upcoming film. Although it may not be at the same level as hip hop or other mainstream music forms, funk has definitely brought a new light into the favelas. Never before would CNN be talking about anything other than death, drugs, and prostitution in the streets of Rio's slums. Never before would the words of impoverished "slumdogs" be heard in swanky European dance clubs. Never before would the destitute of Brazil be able to influence the world outside the borders of their slums.