This thread is related to a thought I had recently.

I had gone to a concert of music from and Andes. That music is so joyous. Even when it's sad, there's a beauty to it that shows the musician is enjoying it.

Now, few people have had it as hard as the native peoples of South America. They are poor, conquered and oppressed. Why the happy music?

Then you look at Americans. Most of them have a fine lifestyle. Even the poor have a better life than the people of the Andes. Yet their popular music is mostly depressing - whiny Country, hostile rap, ugly rock.

I dunno, I just dunno.