China: Danish rock band requested to change lyrics
In order to be allowed to perform in China, the Danish band Rock Hard Power Spray had to change the title of one of their songs
With 80,000 tickets sold, the MIDI Modern Festival in Beijing is China's largest music festival. It runs on 1-4 May 2007, and it presents a number of international bands. The Danish rock band Rock Hard Power Spray was invited to perform there along with two other Danish acts, but before being allowed to go on stage, their lyrics first were investigated by a Chinese censorship committee. Only after the band had accepted to change the title of their song 'Fucks For Free' to 'Fox For Free' were they given permission to perform.
Western musicians and tour organisers have encountered difficulties with performances in China due to a tightened political control over the arts and Christianity.
"Any artistic group or individual who have ever engaged in activities which threaten our national sovereignty will not be allowed in," the Chinese Ministry of Culture stated
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