From its early beginnings in the 1980s, the vibrant world music genre in Australia has burgeoned to become the dynamic scene it is today. World Music charts this evolution, with chapter contributions from some of Australia's most knowledgeable and respected world music journalists, broadcasters, academics and promoters, and in doing so provides an historical perspective on one of music's most exciting styles. It explores the story of Australian-based performers and other individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of Australia's world music scene. With chapters covering many musical sub-genres - European, African, Latin, reggae, Asian, Middle-Eastern, Indigenous, and contemporary cross-cultural fusions - attention is also given to the communities, organisations, venues and festivals, along with the various media outlets that have promoted world music in Australia.