As the global horizon for Chinese rap expands, future prospects for the show that blew it up might be starting to shrink.
Cover image: chinaxiaokang.com
Many people love The Rap of China, streaming platform iQIYI’s breakout hip hop reality show. But it has plenty of haters, too. Despite the controversy it’s stirred up over the course of two seasons, the program has improved many rappers’ living conditions, directly or indirectly, helping them to develop their careers and — I dare say — accelerating the progress of China’s hip hop industry.
So as auditions take place across the country (and worldwide) for season 3, the show’s anticipated return ought to be a big deal, right? Well, not exactly….
First, How are the Rap of China S1 + S2 Alumni Doing?
Lexie Liu x YSL
Following last year’s Season 2 — which was full of “positive energy,” peace and love — the Rap of Chinaalumni seem to be doing well. Shanghai’s OG Cee, Yunnan battle king Young Dragon, and Sichuanese melodic rapper Jello Rio all dropped EPs or albums over the past few months. Lexie Liu’s latest EP 2030was released at the beginning of February on 88Rising, and she recently collaborated with Yves Saint Laurent: Continue to read the full article on RADII.
