Strong like a rock

Cui Jian, known as the Chinese rock 'n' roll godfather, wants to change the perception of rock music in China. Feng Yongbin / China Daily

Chinese veteran rocker, Cui Jian, has been entertaining his fans for 26 years. Chen Nan catches up with him on his upcoming concert and plans.

Chinese godfather of rock 'n' roll, Cui Jian, plans to open a security guard company.

His intention is triggered by his observation at rock concerts in China, where security guards are seen stopping audiences from standing up and interacting with the performers.

"The concept about security guards is confused here. Security guards should be those who are paid to protect audiences and performers," asserts the 51-year-old.

"I want to have a company to train people to become real security guards - serving instead of controlling the audiences and guaranteeing that the audience has a good time."

Wearing his trademark white cap with a red star on it, Cui reveals his idea during a press conference in Beijing to promote his upcoming concert at Mastercard Center, the former Wukesong Arena, on Dec 15.

He also wants to change the perception of rock music.

"Rock music has been considered noisy and dangerous in China for the longest time.

"But I can tell you that rock fans are very peaceful, pure and simple, just like rock music itself. They shouldn't be managed in my concert," Cui adds.

It has been 26 years since Cui launched his debut, Nothing to My Name, which became an instant hit and turned Cui, who was 25 years old then, into a legend.

His reputation as a rock star remains strong up till today.

The musician is proud to say that he has never stopped performing in live shows, either at small venues or on big stages.

Thinking and moving on to new ideas, he says, are just as important as keeping an onstage presence.