100 million views: why China’s viral AI rap track has struck a chord
An AI-generated Chinese rap song featuring some of the country’s most well-known historical figures has taken social media by storm. Titled “The One Who’s Been There” (Guo Lai Ren), the track crossed 100 million views across platforms in less than two weeks as it tapped into the anxieties of modern life. The song brings together 10 iconic figures from Chinese history and mythology – from revered…
A Chinese AI-generated rap song titled "The One Who's Been There" (Guo Lai Ren) has captured the attention of millions on social media in just two weeks. Featuring 10 iconic historical figures from Chinese history and mythology, the track explores themes of shared hardship, empathy, and solace for modern anxieties. The song's opening verse features Du Fu lamenting his rental struggles in Changan, while later verses address the "curse of 35" and corporate layoffs.
The track's creator, Wang Kunzhe, a veteran visual creator, says the three-to-four-day production cost a fraction of traditional music videos. The song's universal message of "You are not alone" has resonated with audiences facing middle-aged struggles, whether in careers, finances, or personal loss.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
