World musicians celebrate Central Axis in reality show

The recently concluded music reality show Singing for the Central Axis of Beijing brought together singers from China and abroad to explore the Central Axis and interpret its cultural significance through music.

Added to the World Heritage List in July, the Central Axis has become a must-visit attraction for travelers. Stretching from Yongdingmen Gate to the Bell and Drum Towers, it connects iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Jingshan Park. Produced by Beijing Radio and Television Station, the show aims to help audiences appreciate this cultural heritage through music while fostering exchanges between China and the rest of the world.

In the final episode, rapper AIR from Kashgar in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and South African R&B singer Motswedi Modiba journeyed along the Central Axis, exploring the city's historic backbone through its architecture and natural surroundings. They visited Beihai Park, where they exchanged gifts and a Peking Opera theater, and learned about the classification and color symbolism of Peking Opera facial masks. Finally, they performed a song alongside students from the Communication University of China choir.

The program featured Chinese and international singers collaborating in cross-genre performances at key sites along the Central Axis through immersive live broadcasts, creating a fusion of music and culture that intertwined historical legacy with artistic expression.