9 Comments
Apr 7, 2021Liked by Chaoyang Trap

A friend pointed me in the direction of Chaoyang Trap and I'm so happy I found it! The Sakamoto story is fascinating. I wonder how his legions of fans in China would react if they knew of his sympathies for the Tibetan cause and his respect for the Dalai Lama. Would it make them more open to what's happening in that troubled region, or would it turn them against the Professor? Also, when Yi-ling poses the question: So what is the secret sauce missing in the cultural ecosystem that won’t allow homegrown icons to rise to the surface? Isn't part of the answer that true iconoclastic creativity can only thrive in an open society where personal expression is not shackled by political considerations?

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author

Thank you so much!

On your question: in this current climate, it would definitely turn a portion of his fandom against the Professor, and used as a cudgel by competing fandoms to "report" and belittle the rest.

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Sad but true. Sakamoto is such an amazing musician and a wonderful human being. I was surprised but happy to know of his widespread popularity in China.

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Apr 7, 2021Liked by Chaoyang Trap

THIS IS THE BEST THING ON THE INTERNT

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author

Thank you, Jordan!

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founding
Apr 6, 2021Liked by Chaoyang Trap

Sooooo good. Love the interview with Xiao Hai, especially. I know this is a pain, but it would be so great if you could point us to how we might watch 在潮白河游泳!

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author

A few members of Chaoyang Trap caught it at a small screening at Fruityspace in Beijing. We can send you an email with the director's contact details!

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founding

That would be much appreciated! Do you have my email?

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author

Sent to the email you subscribed with!

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