But is it cultural appropriation if it's really a natural evolution of a culture after a diaspora? Is it really?

You'll notice amongst Appalachian music similarities to Irish reels and Scottish ballads too, love of banjos (from Africa) and something about the vocal punctuation of lyrics that is oddly remiscent of Cherokee singing and harmonizing.

If you like this type of music, have a listen to Resilient by Rising Appalachia. They're on Spotify. Urchling and I both have that one on our Daily playlists. We love it. Enjoy!