I would love to think that the music North America is best known for the world over would be something substantial, something worthwhile, something we could be proud of. Sadly it's not. I submit into evidence the soundtrack of a single cab ride from the bus station to our current hostel in Santiago, Chile:

• Richard Marx - Right here waiting for you.
• Elvis - Shake Rattle and Roll.
• Hanson - Mmmmmmbop.
• Kenny G - I'm very pleased to tell you that I don't know the name of the song.

Yes, it was just a single cab ride. That doesn't explain that at dinner the night before it was Rick Astley's - Together Forever and the previous meal Celine Dion.