Bon Voyage's Chinese Connection

Bon Voyage Organizations performs at Modern Sky Lab in Bejing, June 21, 2016. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Influence of Chinese music

Being the leader of BVO, Durand says he is inspired by a wide variety of music, both modern and classical.

"I listen to so many types of music. I am interested in everything that is different," Durand said.

Durand's road of inspiration could be traced back to the Cantonese pop songs of Hong Kong and Taiwan back in the 70's and 80's. Alan Tam, a then-renowned Hong Kong singer for example, made an impression on Durand.

Durand's exploration in Chinese songs did not stop there, though.

"Then I went on my search for pop music in Mandarin, which I discovered really, doesn't really exist."

Then, Durand turned to Chinese revolutionary music in 60s' operas and movies. "Basically revolutionary opera and revolutionary movies. And the classical Chinese opera.

Durand said the revolutionary opera, ‘The East is Red' (or Dongfanghong in Chinese), really captured his heart.

He said that's why his music comes to display a Chinese identity.

"The fact that I wanted to use Chinese even though I don't understand it: you know, mainly, because of the sound of it. And because of the very powerful, futuristic potential of, you know, having records and lyrics in Chinese."