Taiwan’s Popular Music and Industries: Transnationalising the Local and Localising the Transnational

This talk of Dr. Chen-yu Lin (Lecturerin Creative and Cultural Industries, Cardiff University) explores the dynamics of Taiwan’s popular music industries—from the latest hits and major industryplayers to the far-reaching transnational influence of Taiwan’s Mandopop. It examines how Taiwan’s music has not only shaped, but also been shaped by,regional and global currents across markets, technologies, and politics.

Drawing on examples from artistssuch as A-Mei Chang, Jay Chou, and the rock band Mayday, as well as the pivotalrole of Rock Records, the discussion highlights how cultural policy, geopolitical contexts, and creative strategies intersect in Taiwan’s music scene.

Through selected music examples and audiovisual materials, the talk reveals how Taiwanese musicians navigate issues of identity, censorship, and commercialisation—illustrating how they “transnationalise the local” and “localise the transnational” in their artistic production and industry practices.