Zuying Song
Who is she?
Born in Xiangxi, one of the most impoverished area in China, ZuYing Song (宋祖英) is among "Miao"(苗) indigenous people. Despite her humble background, she made her way to become one of the most renowned singers with her unique vocal. She won the Kennedy Art Gold Award in 2007, and her album "One Hundred Years of Voice" was nominated for the 49th Grammy "Best Classical Mixed Music Album." She was also the only singer in the world who has sang on the World Cup (2002 Japan and Korea), Olympic Games (2008 Beijing), and World Expo (2010 Shanghai).
Song cooperating with Celine Dion to sing the song "Jasmine"(茉莉花).
Career as a singer
After winning an award in a national singing competition at age of 22, Song was invited to perform the song "Little Back Basket" (小背篓) on Chinese Spring Festival Gala in 1990. Her high-pitched singing voice, fresh and beautiful appearance, and the coexistence of agility and dignity all deeply attracted the audience and made them unforgettable. Zuying Song immediately became a household name in China, and it did not take long before she expanded her stage from China to the world. In 2002, she held solo concerts at the Sydney Opera House and the Vienna Golden Hall, introducing traditional Chinese folk music to the world.
Contribution to the indigenous culture
Song combines her artistic pursuits with unique elements in Chinese folk music. One of her most famous song "Spicy Pepper Girl" (辣妹子 ) uses Chinese Coloratura and shows a Miao girl's love for spice, her playfulness, and bravery in exploring the outside world to the fullest. Her other songs depict pleasant labor production and joyous festive scenes among Miao indigenous people.
Song performing the "Spicy Pepper Girl" （辣妹子）in the Vienna Golden Hall