Local singer-rapper Namewee (黃明志) is no stranger to stepping on toes, from BLINKS to the government, as evident by his long list of controversies. Well, it seems he’s back at it again with his latest song “The People of The Dragon (龙的传人)”, and this time, he’s taking no prisoners.
In 2021, Namewee and Australian singer Kimberley Chen (陈芳语) caused a stir with their song “Fragile Glass Hearts (Fragile玻璃心)” which seemingly satirized China. Despite being blasted for it, his new song is once again focused on a certain public figure in China, even representing them with a familiar yellow bear.
As always, Namewee is taking great delight in promoting his upcoming song, but this one seems to have a very blatant message encoded in it. It’s made some people laugh, and others worry especially since he’s clearly referencing Chinese leader Xi Jinping again, this time with a figure wearing a Winnie the Pooh mask.
The reel is allegedly a promo of his new song and a parody of the political figure’s unquestionable rule and power. It shows Namewee being invited to “promote Chinese culture” and those who disagree by raising their hands were immediately taken off screen. The artist has also uploaded photos of himself and the figure wandering around China, allegedly for the upcoming music video.
Namewee’s jab has caused a ruckus in his comments section, as usual with some deriving humour from the footage. “Haha, Namewee still knows how to play (around),” one said. Another praised him saying: “So creative! I’ll have fun again this Chinese New Year.” But, others felt the artist was taking the joke too far. “(You’re) making money by criticising China. No matter how bad it is, it’s not your (place) to do so,” one reprimanded.
As Namewee claimed he had shot some scenes at Beijing and the Great Wall, netizens wondered how he was allowed to enter and leave China. But, the artist reportedly did not say much about the potential backlash from the parody, merely claiming people were entitled to their opinions.
Well, the singer-rapper isn’t one to sit on his opinions when he feels strongly about something. And it’s clear he has the support of some fans, even if others are decrying his actions. For now, we’ll simply have to wait for the release of “The People of The Dragon” to see how far it goes.
Watch the reel here:
Sources: Sin Chew Daily, Instagram (1)(2)(3)
