Being a member of Generation X.. Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston played a very large role in my life as a teenager and young adult. I don’t think I would really be the person I am without having listened, sang, and danced to both of their music. They were both well-loved by myself, by America… and … by China and the world.
Every KTV (karaoke) Bar in China.. has just about every Whitney and Michael Jackson song every written. I think they are the most well-known American singers in China by far. I think every Chinese person can sing at least one of their songs in English… but couldn’t say anything else if you asked them. But they know and love themselves some Whitney and Michael. Yes ma’am.
If they are not copying the dance moves of Michael on every variety show on tv.. they are trying to sing like Whitney on every music show on tv. I am amazed by the popularity,especially due to the fact that they are Black American. We all know how some in China are not to keen on Black folks.
However, Michael and Whitney were and are both very loved in China, maybe more than in the states. When the news about Whitney’s passing hit China… I think every one of my students sent me a message, phone call or email letting me know. Some people were actually in tears when I saw them.
I think the one thing that cross cultures, traditions, and national boundaries… would have to be music. I can honestly say that Michael and Whitney… brought the Chinese people closer to America… and the American culture. It changed their entire music scene.
People say these two influenced America and left a lasting impact.. but I say .. they both influenced the world. I have lived here long enough to know how hard it is to get the locals to accept something new… and to change anything. (even my husband) .. but if Michael and Whitney were able to change and influence a country like China then they are truly amazing.
I will miss them both with all my heart…. I remember I use to wait with excitement when a new Michael video was coming out… or practice Whitney’s songs over and over.. until I could almost hit every high note. .. hehehe… I still do…hehehe
I will never forget…. Lin Yu Chun from Taiwan.. who sang Whitney’s song … he sounded so much like her.. that when you closed your eyes you thought you were listening to her. Check out the link.
Taiwanese Lin Yu Chun Sings “I Will Always Love You”
Now this… is a tribute to Whitney….The world is a better place having them be apart of it.
Rest In Peace both of you .. and Thank you for helping me get thru High School…I love you.
until next time….
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- A star can never die… (quenchmydesires.wordpress.com)
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If anything Japan is the country that changed China’s music scene. Many popular Chinese songs are actually covers of Japanese songs. Back in the days there weren’t enough songwriters/producers in China so they had to get permission from Japanese artists to use their songs instead. If it weren’t for Japan, China’s music scene would be in the pits.
@JJ.. the Koreans have a big influence now… this country is in love with all things Korean… from clothes, hair, music… everything…most cant stand Japan…. they still old a grudge you know.
Well the Koreans copied their stuff from Japan as well so….especially the fashion and hair.
What I’m saying is Japan was a pioneer for Chinese pop music because they were doing it way back in the 60s and 70s. A lot of the popular Chinese songs you hear from the 90s were actually Japanese songs.
It doesn’t matter if most Chinese “can’t stand” Japan, I’m just stating facts. Plus music have no boundaries, and it shouldn’t interfere with some stupid old grudges.
Well, its LINSANITY all over again!! 😀
“Lin” Yu Chun and Jeremy “Lin”!
Incase you don’t know, For the past two weeks, Jeremy Lin is making waves in American media, and for second time (since Bruce Lee) in american’s history Asian stereotypes are being re-examined.
yeah.. I know… and China is trying to get him to give up his american citizenship .. and come over here.
LOL, hey you never know! 😀
I loved them as well. You can also include Heavy D in the mix for me. It’s sad, we are losing so many of our icons. I think the hardest for me was Michael. I remember he was a huge ambassador for international human rights. Whitney was the angelic voice. I don’t think anyone in our generation could sing like her.
@Lady Orchid… of course you cant forget… the .. Didddilllyyy Didddillly Deeee… of My man Heavy… I still smile.. when I see big boy.. breakin’ it down.. on the dance floor.
Always great writing. Everything changes huh?
This is a lovely tribute post. The graphic is stunning. And as for Lin Yu Chun, his rendition of Whitney’s signature song is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. It brought tears to my eyes.
it sad to see them go but they will be remember, I brought the great hit of Whitney Houston CD, the book store was closing down,we will all miss them