The phenomenon in which a culture—whether national, ethnic, or subcultural—achieves visibility, popularity, or influence in media, fashion, language, or other domains of society, often without active participation, endorsement, or control by members of that culture themselves, thus reaping proportionate benefits or recognition. Culture coasting typically occurs when elements of a culture are adopted, commodified, or spread by outsiders, creating the illusion of cultural momentum.
Thanks to culture coasting, artists from outside Jamaica (e.g., Drake, Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, or international DJs) often incorporate Jamaican sounds, slang, and rhythms into their work, thus increasing Jamaica's soft power in music.
by neonexxus June 14, 2025