In 1985, Wham! became the first Western pop act to tour China, a move that was both groundbreaking and commercially strategic. Andrew Ridgeley reflects on the surreal experience, where their flamboyant style starkly contrasted with the local culture. The tour was designed to elevate their status in the US without the grueling demands of a traditional tour, ultimately achieving its goal of catapulting them into the American spotlight.
The concerts in Beijing and Guangzhou were met with a mix of excitement and confusion from Chinese audiences, who were largely unfamiliar with Western pop music. Ridgeley recalls the awkwardness of performing to a silent crowd, where even dancing was met with police intervention. This cultural exchange opened a window for many Chinese fans to Western music, marking a significant moment in the country’s evolving relationship with global pop culture.
The documentary “Wham! 10 Days in China” captures this unique experience, featuring previously unseen footage and interviews with those involved. Ridgeley highlights the challenges they faced, including the pressures of media coverage and the formalities of diplomatic receptions, which contrasted sharply with their artistic intentions.
The collaboration with director Lindsay Anderson, known for his serious films, added another layer of complexity to the tour. Ridgeley describes the mismatch between Anderson’s style and Wham!’s vibrant persona, illustrating the often chaotic nature of their groundbreaking venture into a rapidly changing China.
Source: The Guardian
