Noise & silence: underground music and resistance in the People's Republic of China
Year: 2012
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This paper seeks to explore the development of alternative forms of music in China, their political connections, and the ways in which music is perceived (especially from a Western perspective). Since much of Chinese alternative music developed based on ""rebellious"" Western music genres, such as rock and punk, the general Western perception of alternative Chinese music is that it is also inherently resistant to Chinese political hegemonies. I argue though, that resistance comes in many forms, and not just through overt expression by way of lyrics or behavior as is the usual case with Western music. Through ""silence,"" Chinese musicians manipulate the grey areas of the system vis-�-vis creative and musical expression. In the case of non-mainstream ""underground"" Chinese music, musicians complicate the relationship between music and politics through the utilization of symbolism and ambiguity, appropriation of DIY ethics, and experimental aesthetics. Together they form distinct communities and music scenes that provide alternative spaces to more dominant cultural trends in modern day China.
Author: Lee, Carolyn (author)
Language: English
Topic: Music History and Culture
Subfield: Music
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W113549436