Say Hello To The People's Republic Of Rock And Roll
In China, apparently rock and roll’s clash with authority is all about harmony.
You think rock music is about rebellion, freedom, and passion? Well shows what you know. China is here to challenge that and show you just how conformist rock music can be.
Last Thursday, a seminar in Beijing — titled "Review And Outlook On The 30 Years Of Chinese Rock Music" — revealed a plan to set up China's first-ever Rock Music Academy, Xinhua reported.
The deputy secretary-general of the musicians association
Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles / Via bjwl.org.cn
Sipping tea across a drab typical Chinese conference room were some of China's famous rock musicians including Liu Yijun, a heavy metal guitarist from the legendary band Tang Dynasty, and various party officials.
Representatives from college rock bands and music websites were also invited.
Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles / Via bjwl.org.cn
"This meeting," said the deputy party secretary of the Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles (BFLAC), "aims to create a distinctive phenomenon of Chinese rock, a symbol of Oriental rock music, and a splendid chapter in the history of rock music."
Grace Liang / Reuters