BEIJING, Dec. 4, 2024 — Andy Lau’s patriotic performance of “Chinese People” in Taipei resonated deeply with the audience. This song, created by Taiwanese musicians, continues to connect with audiences across generations.

A new wave of pop music emphasizes national pride and cultural identity, driven by young musicians from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, furthering the concept of “one family across the Straits.”

Lyricist Vincent Fang shared with the Global Times his dedication to preserving and promoting Chinese cultural heritage.

Fang’s 2022 song, “Wo Men Tong Chang Yi Shou Ge,” became a viral hit, performed by young singers like Ouyang Nana and Zhang Jie. The song’s lyrics, incorporating elements of Chinese culture such as tea, Go, and Fujian architecture, evoke a strong sense of homesickness and longing for unity.

This cultural resonance is evident in various events, strengthening emotional bonds among young people across the Strait through music.

Taiwanese musician Tina Wang noted the increasing number of Taiwanese youth coming to the mainland for work and study, drawn by its development and prosperity.

Singing together

A seaside music festival in Fujian’s Lianjiang in September showcased the collaborative spirit of young musicians. Over 30 songs performed by six bands from both sides of the Strait created an electrifying atmosphere, reported Xinhua News Agency.

The festival featured Taiwanese bands like Sunset Rollercoaster, alongside local Fujian bands, offering diverse musical perspectives.

Concerts by popular Taiwanese artists like Mayday, Jeff Chang, and Richie Jen are hugely popular, with tickets often sold out.

To foster collaboration, veteran Taiwanese music producer Benson Chen, a member of the Chinese Musicians’ Association, established a training camp in Beijing for young musicians.

The camp, with mentors like Tina Wang, brought together over 40 young musicians. A week-long program resulted in 45 new compositions.

Chen highlighted the surprising use of traditional Chinese musical elements, aiming to boost cultural confidence among Taiwanese musicians.

The same root

Chen and Wang have observed the evolution of mainland Chinese pop music.

Chen advocates for the integration of traditional Chinese instruments and poetry, challenging Western standards in assessing Chinese music.

Other Taiwanese musicians, such as Fang, also highlight cultural identity, blending ancient Chinese poetry with modern pop melodies.

Chen emphasizes the need to guide younger musicians, combining their creativity and international perspective with the foundations of Chinese culture.

SOURCE Global Times