听力原文： One of America's most important exports is her modern music. American music is played all over the world. It is enjoyed by people of ail ages in all countries. Although the lyrics are English, people not speaking English enjoy it. The reasons for its popularity are its fast pace and rhythmic beat. Music has many origins in the United States. Country music which comes from the rural areas in the southern United States is one source. Country music features simple themes and melodies describing day-to-day situations and the feelings of country people. Many people appreciate this music because of the emotions expressed by country music songs. The second origin of American popular music is the blues. It depicts mostly sad feelings reflecting the difficult lives of American blacks. It is usually played and sung by black musicians, but it is popular with all Americans. Rock music is a newer form. of music. This music style, featuring fast and repetitious rhythms, was influenced by the blues and the country music. It was first known as rock-and-roll in the 1950s. Since then there have been many forms of rock music: hard rock, soft rock, disco music and others. Many performers of popular music are young musicians. American popular music is marketed to a demanding audience. Now popular songs are heard on the radio several times a day. Some songs have become popular all over the world. People hear these songs in their original English or sometimes translated into other languages. The words may differ but the enjoyment of the music is universal. (26)