Profile of NINEONE#: The Voice of a Generation in Chinese Hip-Hop
1. Early Life and Artistic Foundations
Keyword: Xi’an
Key Sentence: Born in Xi’an, NINEONE#’s early life laid the groundwork for her multifaceted artistry.
NINEONE#, born Zhao Xinyue (formerly Zhao Hui) on December 15, 1996, hails from Xi’an, a city rich in cultural heritage. This environment, steeped in history, may have influenced her artistic sensibilities from a young age. She pursued formal education at the Shanghai Theatre Academy, graduating in 2018, which provided her with a solid foundation in performance arts. Her stage name, NINEONE#, is a tribute to her favorite basketball player, Dennis Rodman, who wore the number 91 jersey.
2. Rise to Fame and Musical Evolution
Keyword: Versatility
Key Sentence: NINEONE#’s versatility has been a cornerstone of her ascent in the Chinese music scene.
NINEONE# embarked on her music career in 2016, quickly gaining attention with her unique blend of rap, pop, and electronic music. Her debut single, “Closed Eyes Song,” released in 2017, marked the beginning of a prolific output. Tracks like “Puma” and “I Don’t Wanna See U Anymore” resonated with audiences, the latter becoming a viral hit on platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok) and amassing significant streams on NetEase Cloud Music.
Her participation in competitive shows such as “The Rap of China” and “Youth With You Season 2” further showcased her talent, with her ranking 10th in the latter. NINEONE#’s music defies easy categorization, as she seamlessly integrates various genres, reflecting her commitment to artistic exploration.
3. Artistic Identity and Creative Control
Keyword: Autonomy
Key Sentence: NINEONE# exercises autonomy over her music, asserting control over her artistic narrative.
Beyond performance, NINEONE# is deeply involved in the creative process, often writing her own lyrics and contributing to the production of her tracks. Her lyrical content frequently delves into themes of self-empowerment, personal growth, and emotional introspection. In 2019, she released her debut studio album, “Dear X,” which was well-received and highlighted her songwriting prowess. Her ability to craft catchy hooks and memorable melodies has become a signature aspect of her music.
4. Public Persona and Controversies
Keyword: Outspokenness
Key Sentence: NINEONE#’s outspokenness has both endeared her to fans and embroiled her in public controversies.
In May 2021, NINEONE# faced backlash following comments made during a concert, where she urged women to show more understanding towards men’s societal pressures. Critics accused her of undermining feminist ideals, given her previous advocacy for women’s empowerment in her music. NINEONE# defended her statements, emphasizing her intent to promote empathy across genders. This incident sparked widespread debate on gender roles and the responsibilities of public figures in China.(thechinaproject.com)
5. Collaborations and International Presence
Keyword: Globalization
Key Sentence: NINEONE#’s collaborations reflect her role in the globalization of Chinese hip-hop.
NINEONE# has expanded her reach through collaborations with international artists and participation in global music events. She performed at South by Southwest (SXSW) in 2019, showcasing her music to an international audience. In 2022, she featured on the track “Rave Game” with American-Indonesian duo BEAUZ, blending her vocals with electronic dance music elements. These endeavors signify her contribution to bringing Chinese hip-hop to a broader, global stage.
6. Cultural Impact and Legacy
Keyword: Influence
Key Sentence: NINEONE#’s influence extends beyond music, impacting cultural conversations and youth identity in China.
As a prominent female figure in a male-dominated genre, NINEONE# has become a role model for many young listeners, particularly women. Her music often addresses themes of individuality and self-expression, resonating with a generation navigating societal expectations. Despite controversies, her commitment to authenticity and artistic integrity continues to inspire discussions on gender, culture, and the evolving landscape of Chinese music.