Legendary reggae artist and producer Clive Chin is playing at Bed Bar this Friday. City Weekend caught up with him online to hear his thoughts on reggae, life and China.

CW: Clive, how many times have you visited China?

This is my first trip to China.

CW: Is there anything in particular that catches your eye, how does the city compare to other places you have lived, New York for example?

China seems like a very cultural place. The scenery is very traditional and captivating.

CW: In an interview with reggae vibes, you mentioned your mixed heritage, I believe your grandfather came from China in the late 18th century; How (if at all) has such a heritage influenced your music and in particular your decision to tour in China?

Firstly, neither my grandfather nor father got the opportunity to visit the mainland. I feel very grateful to have the chance to visit for the first time. Secondly, I feel honored to bring Jamaican music and culture to the people of China.

CW: How do you think your brand of reggae will be received in Beijing? How receptive have Chinese audiences been?

I think the people will enjoy and gravitate towards my brand of Reggae music. The message and vibes of the songs transcend all cultural boundaries.

CW:Do you feel that there is a market for reggae in China, particularly for classic reggae artists such as Lee ‘scratch’ Perry, Marley and of course Augustus Pablo amongst others?

Aboslutely. Music is universal and the sounds of Jamaica definitely have a worldwide appeal.

CW: After your family business moved to New York you spent 15 years running a family restaurant in Queens, before starting producing again in 1998. What inspired or drove you to get back into music, and was it difficult to do so, had things moved on since you left?

There was a lack of originality and direction in Reggae and I believe my style of production was missing from what was going on. Getting back into production was not hard at all. I like to compare it to the art of cooking. Once you have the right ingredients you can't go wrong.

CW: Could you summarize how you feel reggae has changed since its early days?

The music has changed in major ways. Back in the 60s and 70s Reggae had a warmer sound compared to the digital age we are now in with computers etc. The subject matter of the music we recorded was centered more on peace, love and culture.

CW: In the interview you did with reggae vibes, you talked about how important it is for you to ‘create the song with your own vision’. Does it become increasingly hard for you to evolve creatively the longer you stay in the business?

The creativity is always there. Once you have a particular focus and drive to get a message across, the inspiration stays alive and well.

CW: Before the set at Bed in Beijing, you’re giving a talk on the history of reggae, what do you plan to cover?

We plan to give an overall history of the evolution of Jamaican music. From Mento to Jamaican R&B, Ska and all the way to Roots Rock Reggae and Dub.

CW: Finally, what are your plans for the future? Having already achieved so much in your field, is there anything else, professionally or personally, that you would like to do?

I would love to continue to travel and do lectures both speaking about our culture and educating the people about the music I played a pivotal part in creating.

DETAILS

Clive Chin at Bed Bar, Friday, November 6, ¥50 includes one drink