American Rapper Eli Sweet Reflects On China
Traditional music and dance are important parts of Chinese culture. But younger generations of Chinese, often influenced by foreigners, also have taken to more modern forms of expression.
Originally from Atlanta, Eli Sweet has been studying Chinese on and off for 10 years. He moved to Chengdu in the fall of 2006, where he's been teaching English, studying Chinese and performing rap in clubs.
"There is a community of Chinese hip-hop artists in Chengdu, and I perform with them from time to time in underground clubs," says Sweet. "Collaborating with the nascent hip-hop community in Chengdu is where my passion lies."
Related NPR Stories
David Gilkey/NPR
In a song Sweet performs with a Chinese rapper who goes by the name "Coffee," he says he's "never been the one to hold my tongue."
Sweet continues in the rap, saying the two are "releasing stress, keep it fresh, this -- the best of the East and West. We're pioneers of this rhyming here."
Living in China provides an "endless stream of adventure," says Sweet. "I love it."
David Gilkey/NPR
Comments
Discussions for this story are now closed. Please see the Community FAQ for more information.