How a tough young guy conquered rap

Although he did not understand what Eminem was singing about, he listened to the songs over and over again and soon became fascinated with Eminem's distinct rap style. Since then his university dormitory had doubled up as a writing studio where he produces his own material.

During his first year at Beijing International Studies University he took part in a campus singing competition and won, becoming an instant star on campus. In his third year, he held a solo concert on campus, and when he graduated he released a debut album, Musape.

His parents, who are both public servants, live in Xinjiang and have been his most ardent supporters, even if hip-hop music is a mystery to them, he says.

"My father once rented a small basement for me in Xinjiang as my music studio and I was really touched. It's a luxury for a young man to have his own studio when he has not achieved anything but my father understands my commitment to music."

Nawukere says he has struggled to find his own identity within his music. To make his ends meet, he worked in a company after graduating from university. He has lived on a tight budget, spending all his savings on recording equipment.

"I've been looking for my own sound and style of rap. My inspiration comes from everywhere, especially freestyle. I like observing things, and when I write songs I do it alone. At first I wrote them in English since that's the genre's original language. It took me a long time to get to the point where I was confident enough to rap in Chinese with unique language, rhythms and meaning."

Before appearing on The Rap of China he had performed on the Zhejiang Satellite TV show Sound of My Dream, and in a Chinese musical, A Moment of Remembrance, composed by the singer-songwriter Han Hong and directed by the dramatist Tian Qinxin.

Nawukere, who lives in Beijing, is now busy with new singles. He is still adjusting into his new life after gaining fame on The Rap of China. He has a young son who he hopes can enjoy hip-hop music as he does.

"My childhood dream was to become a basketball player. Now, I am a rapper. I have never had to force myself to achieve anything; passion alone is a powerful force."a