Holding On to My Roots as a Muslim Convert

As a revert from a Trinidadian background, with close friends who are also Mexican, Bolivian, and Caribbean reverts, I've been thinking a lot about how to embrace the beautiful parts of our cultures while staying true to Islam. I know Islam came to guide and purify cultures, not wipe them out, and I fully accept Allah’s wisdom and commands. But I’ve always felt that Islam must come before culture-I’ve seen how putting culture above the deen can cause confusion and troubles in families and relationships. Bismillah, one challenge is that many talks about culture and Islam seem to focus on Pakistani or Middle Eastern cultures. With all due respect, every culture has its beauty and its own tests, but I’ve sometimes noticed cultural expectations and traditions being treated like they’re part of Islam. In some cases, I’ve witnessed culture being put ahead of what Allah has commanded, and that’s only strengthened my belief that Islam should always come first, no matter if the culture is Caribbean, Pakistani, Arab, or anything else. Because of that, I’m trying to figure out how to keep my Caribbean identity while staying firm on the deen. Stuff like music, dancing, celebrations, clothing, names, and family gatherings are a huge part of who we are, and I wonder how to tell what to keep, what to adjust, and what to leave behind. For instance, is it okay to go to family gatherings where music is playing? How do you keep ties with your culture and family without compromising your principles? I know Islam is for all people and all cultures, and I’d especially love to hear from fellow reverts or knowledgeable brothers and sisters who have learned how to honor their heritage while striving to practice Islam in the best way possible. Any advice, personal stories, or resources would be so appreciated. Jazakum Allahu khayran.