The 1 RMB Challenge is a 2 day music event meant to allow expats and Chinese music fans to explore popular acts in the others respective music scenes. We're so passionate about this, the promoters will pay all audience members 1 RMB each for coming and checking it out.
The impetus for the show came from a meeting with local music promoters Brian Offenther (DJ B.O of Trash A Go-Go) and Xiao Wei 天水 (local band Dabei). To their mutual surprise, they both expressed frustration with getting audiences of the others respective communities to events.
As it currently stands, there are mostly exclusive expat and a Chinese art scene. With very few exceptions, and despite the efforts of many, few artists been able to “cross-over.” This is a real shame, as their integration could lead to bigger audiences, more diverse shows, unique collaborations, and an overall more vibrant scene.
The solution Brian Offenther and Xiao Wei came up with is this: a 2 day event, with the first (January 7) featuring super ace Chinese acts playing an event promoted to the expat community, and the second (January 8, in the afternoon) featuring expat acts playing for a Chinese audience. We hope this creates a dialogue and facilitates new connections between audience and artists. Also, it will rock like a mofo.
Rock in China
1 RMB Challenge: Check Out Some New Bands In Shanghai, Get Paid - Jan. 7 & 8