Kuala Lumpur ― A debate has begun whether the modernisation of classics should be allowed. As far as Malaysian rapper Namewee is concerned, it should.
But there’s one problem – not all Chinese netizens agree with Namewee. It was reported that singer Xiao Panpan or Wraya (WENGIE) was slammed recently when she ‘wrongfully interpreted’ a song from the classic Chinese opera “Yellow Plum Tune“.
Netizens found the singer’s version insulting, which led Namewee to speak up in her defence.
In 2018, Wraya became popular after her song Learn to Meow became a hit. The songstress also collaborated with Namewee on Stupid Things We did Together which was released in 2018 as well.
Wraya’s most recent adaptation caused a backlash. She took the song The Son-in-law from the opera and modernised it. To the Chinese media, Wraya’s version undermined traditional opera singing methods and was an insult to the country.
On Sept 22, Namewee made a post on Facebook to support the hapless artist. “The adaptation is nice,” he opined. “The new (version) of old songs can help young people learn more about their nationalism and history. It’s very creative.”
According to the rapper, Wraya was surprised to discover there were people who supported her. “It’s not easy to create in China,” Namewee admitted. He added he hopes “extremists” will not ruin musicians’ creativity and efforts. “I also hope (Wraya) will not be crushed,” he stated.
His post was quick to attract attention from Chinese netizens. Several left comments claiming his support would actually hurt Wraya. “It’s fine to comfort her in private,” one said. “You can cheer her up publicly now. (But) based on your current situation, (you) will indirectly hurt her.” Others mentioned why they disagreed with Wraya’s version. “Adaptation is fine, but vulgarity is a problem,” a comment stated.
Namewee responded in the comments, explaining why he was throwing his support behind Wraya. “She is my friend. (We) have worked together on a song before, and won an MV award in the United States,” he said. Namewee made it clear he saw nothing wrong with supporting Wraya publicly. “I think those extremists are really on fire,” he wrote. “Please don’t insult the creation.”
As reported by Hype.my, the Malaysian rapper is not facing controversy for the first time. One of the most recent ones was starting a war with BLACKPINK fans. In addition, Namewee is often seen supporting people online, such as the hawker who claimed to be extorted.
It is unlikely that netizens will forget what happened, even though Wraya has apologised for her transgression and remade her version. She said that she had not considered the plot of the opera when she interpreted the song.
/TISG