"McGrath's" word "deculturated" (a curious word, but useful) is the key to much of this discussion. When people are distanced in huge measure from the culture of their predecessors, there exists a vacuum which will suck in forms from other cultures, for better or worse. This applies particularly in the case of English music.

I've played zydeco, Cajun and blues and thoroughly enjoyed it, yet (and I'm not getting misty-eyed about this; honest, guv!) when I'm singing English stuff, particularly in chorus, I feel a sense of home, belonging and emotion that I don't find elsewhere. I would imagine that people the world over feel like this towards the music of their own country. (Yes, it refreshes the parts that other forms of music can't reach!!!!) Sadly, as far as England's concerned, and for the reasons stated above, I think I belong to a small minority!