In the heart of Chengdu, a city celebrated for its fiery hotpot and laid-back teahouses, British producer HARIKIRI is cooking up a different kind of heat – chart-topping hip-hop beats. As China's music scene undergoes a cultural metamorphosis, the producer has become a key architect of its sound, collaborating with groups like the Higher Brothers and shaping Chengdu's reputation as Asia's unexpected hip-hop capital.
During an exclusive interview at Chengdu's A4 Art Museum, which recently hosted a hip-hop-themed exhibition, HARIKIRI shared his journey from UK basslines to Sichuan rhythms. 'The energy here is raw and unfiltered,' he told CGTN, recalling late-night studio sessions fueled by dan dan noodles and the city's signature málà spice.
Over steaming cups of jasmine tea, the producer traced hip-hop's evolution in China: 'Ten years ago, it was underground cipher battles in back alleys. Now, we're seeing stadium tours and fashion collabs.' His insights reveal how Chinese artists are blending traditional instruments like the guzheng with trap beats, creating a sound that resonates globally while rooted in local identity.
For business analysts tracking China's cultural exports, HARIKIRI's story offers a case study in creative cross-pollination. As streaming platforms report surging hip-hop engagement across Southeast Asia, Chengdu's scene demonstrates how regional hubs can drive global trends.
Diaspora communities and travelers take note: The producer's favorite haunts include the neon-lit Taikoo Li district and the indie venues of Yulin Street – proving that in Chengdu, cultural innovation pairs perfectly with mapo tofu.
