Americana has become a cover term for what is also known as North American roots music. In other words, music with roots in a US or Canadian music tradition. Americana is not a specific genre. It is an umbrella term covering many musical styles: folk, gospel, blues, country, roots rock, bluegrass, cajun and more, genres with folk origins using principally acoustic instruments.
Americana does not limit itself to acoustic music, however. It is also used of bands with the full electric kit. Americana is used as a common label for both (North) American traditional music in its original, historical form and newly-composed music by bands and songwriters who interpret, retell and develop American roots music.
