Indonesia sees dream of rock ‘n’ roll reality in Japan
On June 22, 2025, at 8:00 JST, an interview was conducted with Awich, an Okinawan rapper who is making waves in the global hip-hop scene. Born and raised in Okinawa, Awich’s music reflects her unique cultural heritage and experiences. She is on a mission to establish herself as a prominent figure in the world of hip-hop, blending traditional Okinawan influences with contemporary beats to create a sound that is distinctly her own.
Australia’s Indigenous artists are also gaining recognition for their ability to weave traditional elements into modern music. Drawing on their rich cultural heritage, these artists are creating music that resonates with audiences both at home and internationally. By incorporating traditional instruments and languages into their music, they are celebrating their roots and sharing their stories with the world.
The music scene in Asia is undergoing a transformation, with artists from different countries coming together to collaborate and create innovative sounds. This fusion of cultures and influences has resulted in a diverse range of music that is pushing boundaries and challenging traditional norms. From Southeast Asia to China, musicians are using their art to express themselves and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Rebel music is thriving in Southeast Asia, with artists using their music to speak out against injustices and social issues. Punk and metal bands in the region are using their music as a platform to address issues such as conservative Islam and political corruption. Through their lyrics and performances, these bands are shining a light on important issues and sparking conversations that may not have otherwise occurred.
In China, Southeast Asian Vedic heavy metal bands have carved out a niche for themselves in the extreme music scene. Drawing on themes from ancient cultures and mythologies, these bands are creating a unique sound that is captivating audiences across the country. By blending traditional elements with heavy metal music, these bands are pushing the boundaries of what is considered mainstream in China’s music scene.
The arts scene in India is also facing challenges, with the once-splendorous Ajanta Caves slowly fading away. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the caves are a testament to India’s rich history and cultural heritage. However, due to neglect and environmental factors, the caves are deteriorating, raising concerns about their long-term preservation.
Despite these challenges, Japan continues to celebrate its rich cultural heritage through its annual Japanese film festival, the largest of its kind in the world. The festival showcases a diverse range of films that highlight Japan’s history, traditions, and modern society. By bringing together filmmakers and audiences from around the world, the festival is helping to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Japanese cinema.
As the world grapples with questions of ownership and cultural heritage, the return of artifacts to their countries of origin has become a contentious issue. Museums and institutions are facing increasing pressure to repatriate artifacts that were taken without consent or through colonial exploitation. These returns raise important questions about who owns history and the responsibility of preserving and protecting cultural heritage for future generations.
In conclusion, the arts scene in Asia is vibrant and diverse, with artists from different countries coming together to create music and films that reflect their cultural heritage and experiences. Despite facing challenges such as neglect and exploitation, these artists are using their platforms to celebrate their roots, address important issues, and connect with audiences on a deeper level. As the world continues to grapple with questions of ownership and cultural heritage, it is important to recognize and support the contributions of Asian artists in preserving and promoting their rich and unique cultural identities.