Cui Jian

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/cui-jian

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. When was Cui Jian born?August 2, 1961
2. Where was Cui Jian born?Beijing, China
3. What is the artistic evolution?Transitioned through various genres including avant-rock, electronic, and folk-blues rock
4. Who is Cui Jian?Cui Jian is a famous Chinese rock star who is called the "Godfather of Chinese Rock". He mixed Western rock music with traditional Chinese sounds to create a new style.
5. What is special about his song "Nothing to My Name"?Released in 1986, the song blends rock and the traditional Chinese style called xintianyou. It became an instant hit and an anthem for young people in China.

Countercultural Impact: The effect of art or music that challenges and goes against prevailing social norms and values.
Xintianyou: A traditional genre of folk song originating from northern China, known for its melodic and narrative qualities.
Avant-rock: A style of rock music that is experimental, often incorporating elements of jazz, electronic music, and avant-garde composition.
Magnum Opus: A person's greatest work, especially in a creative field like music or literature.