Nativization of English in Canto-pop
Despite the various roles English plays in Canto-pop, English does not always project a Westernized identity. (Chan 2009) Signs of Indigenization of English were observed over the decades, English has been gradually detached from its prescribed connotations e.g. Liberal, modern, educated etc., implying some degrees of Nativization. In the era of globalization, English is no longer a "language of Westerners" or "a language of others", it is a common language for all with great tolerance for different thoughts, cultures and identities.
Though English is often adopted to project identities and convey symbolic values, these meanings do not share a direct correlation with “Westerner” identity. As Manuel noted, Popular music is a powerful and meaningful medium indexing individuals' identity, functioning as an avenue of expression and mediation of conflict. (Manuel, 1988)
Though English is often adopted to project identities and convey symbolic values, these meanings do not share a direct correlation with “Westerner” identity. As Manuel noted, Popular music is a powerful and meaningful medium indexing individuals' identity, functioning as an avenue of expression and mediation of conflict. (Manuel, 1988)