Calypso and Cultural Commodification in Aruba

Abstract

This research analysed the phenomenon of cultural commodification through the lens of Calypso music on the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba. The aim was to explore the relationship between (mass) tourism and intangible cultural heritage (Calypso), and the potential beneficial or detrimental effect the former may have had on the latter. The research was an ethnographic case study comprised of interviews with local musicians and cultural producers in order to obtain their insights and perceptions on the matter. The research revealed that tourism has had no direct impact on Calypso. However, indirectly the island began a process of commercialisation owing to the presence of large multi-national corporations, such as large hotel chains, to cater for the tourism industry. This commercialisation had a domino effect on Aruban society, and incited a trend of commodification from within that Calypso did elude.