Are Blackness and whiteness useful concepts in the study of popular music?

I do not agree that blackness and whiteness are useful concepts as it is almost impossible to define what white or black music. Many people may say rap is black music when one of the most successful rappers is actually white (Eminem). Some could argue that rock is white music, however it was formed from the blues which is played by many black artists. It is possible to say they are both the same as music nowadays is formed from various genres. Hatch and Milward state "Pop music has always depended upon the interaction between white and black traditions". This backs up the point that pop music is built up of genres that come from both black and white artists. Pop music is rarely a pure form which is why blackness and whiteness is not useful in the study of pop.

Bhangra is a genre that crosses many influences and it is impossible to call it black or white music as it is from the asian origin. Bennet states that since the 60's immigrants use their music to establish their background and culture in Britain. This may not be true in this day and age because you can have someone of any race playing any genre out there in music. This is why the concept of using blackness and whiteness in the study of pop music is not ideal.