Chinese contemporary artist Ai Weiwei is reportedly set to release a heavy metal album.
The powerful 55 year-old, who’s a respected artist active in installation, architecture, photography, and much more - as well as being a political and social figure - has worked with rock musician and fellow countryman Zuoxiao Zuzhou on a heavy metal album, providing vocals and even writing some lyrics.
Speaking to The Guardian, Weiwei explained how the project came into fruition.
“To tell you the truth, I never listened to music,” he told the paper. “Then, during my detention, the guards were so bored they kept saying to me, 'Can you sing a song?' I felt so sad I couldn't sing any except the revolutionary ones we had to learn when we were growing up … It would have made the time seem much shorter.”
He continued: “After I came out, I realised I had never really listened to music or sung, so I decided to make an album. I know so many artists and musicians and they were really supportive.”
Weiwei went on to add that he’d certainly be sending his album to Elton John, saying: “I was impressed by his very warm heart and passion and the expression of the music, so that gave me a clear push for making my own album. I will send it to him and ask his opinion. I haven't asked him for advice – I will surprise him.”
Speaking of the style of the record, he said that ‘some are like heavy metal, some are more punkish, and some are more pop’, and also talked about his plans for a follow-up - saying: ”It's more like love songs; it will be softer than the first. There's no heavy metal on that one.”
Nothing is known of a release date yet - so stay with Stereoboard to stay up-to-date!
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