Inspired by Elton John, Chinese Dissident Ai Weiwei Has Made a Metal Album
Chinese artist and political dissident Ai Weiwei / Photo by Getty Images
‘Divina Commedia’ will spoof life in Beijing
Multifaceted Chinese artist and political dissident Ai Weiwei has recorded an album of hard-rock songs, and he’s going to ask for Elton John’s help in releasing the thing. According to England’s The Times, the Beijing resident and occasional ward of the state has written nine songs parodying life in his country and he’s employed local rock star Zuoxiao Zuzhou to back his singing with some searing licks.
The album, which he’s calling Divina Commedia (after a little ol’ book by Dante Alighieri), was inspired by a trio of influences: the raucous opening ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics; his 81-day disappearance following an arrest over possibly bogus tax evasion charges; and the “warm heart,” “passion,” and “expression” of John, who dedicated his February concert in the Chinese capital to Weiwei.