If ethnomusicology is primarily defined by its research methods rather than by focusing on certain conventional objects of study labeled as “traditional” musics, an ethnomusicologically informed investigation of popular musics might yield new insights into phenomena that have so far been approached mainly from other perspectives, such as music sociology or the study of popular culture in general. If the study of popular musics is viewed as legitimate and necessary for contemporary ethnomusicology does it present any specific challenges? Are there substantial differences between Western and non-Western popular musics that would affect research questions and/or methodology? This introduction traces some of the issues involved.