Thinking of the global superpower China, the average American would recollect thoughts of the infamous firewall, Communism, or even their favorite Chinese spot that they religiously visit. Now blend China with rap and suddenly those thoughts gradually begin to disintegrate.
Some more avid listeners of hip-hop may be aware the rowdy group that go by “Higher Brothers” who pushed their way into American stardom and landed notable features with familiar faces like Keith Ape, Ski Mask The Slump God, and Famous Dex. Or one may recall the Asian label 88rising that brought up numerous notable artists like Rich Brian or Joji. Although America has a taste of Chinese rap in their mouths, the underground hasn’t had it’s meal yet and it’s hungry.
But to sate the American hunger, the East gives us Bloodzboi. At first glance, Bloodzboi is intimidating. Standing tall with a glare, he is decorated with a plethora of tattoos and resembles somewhat of an Eastern equivalent of Slimesito or maybe even a member of the triad. Taking a look at his Twitter feed fragments of his personality are brought to life, he is hardworking, humorous, and also apparently a recluse.
Taking a step back and ignoring his grimy looks and questionable Tweets his personality is brought to light with his music. Proceeding to his SoundCloud and clicking on the first track titled “如果有一天” (If One Day translated from Mandarin), the listener is immediately mesmerized. Lending the help of renowned producer foxwedding the artist manages to craft his emotions into an audible form. Starting off with a dreamy guitar loop, the production immediately sets the tone for a song that could only be described as a somber anthem.
如果有一天在镜子里看到你双眼 你会不会因为我而再一次改变 // If you see your eyes in the mirror one day, will you change again because of me?
As soon as the chorus sets in the ears of the listener are reminded that music is universal no matter the language. Translated from Mandarin, Bloodzboi speaks of a past lover who he reminisces for and questions the effects of his past actions on her.
我不能忘记你 我不想做自己 // I cannot forget you and I can longer be myself anymore
In the aftermath of the incredible display of remorse in the chorus, the track slows down to a verse and these words are echoed. Showing his anguish and self-hatred over a past lover Bloodzboi becomes an open book for the listener and speaks to the soul.
Although having a minuscule following in America, both Bloodzboi’s talent and message is universal and it is only a matter of time before his presence is also universal. In the meantime stream “如果有一天 (If One Day)” Below