Funky Teochew Song from Hong Kong

September - can't believe it's September already. This post is about another group of folks  who are preserving Teochew. This time, in Hianggàng (Hong Kong)! This Teochew language class put together a fun song about Teochew identity and culture. It may be out of tune, but hey, it's the content and spirit that counts right? They did it for New Years I believe, but this song is for any time of year!

Still Alive! and Mang Ue Neung Hai

Yes I know it's been months (almost five) since I've last posted, but I'm still here. Just letting the Teochew media pile up so I can impress you guys ... maybe. This post has a karaoke video that is possibly original but more likely a Mandarin or perhaps event English song originally - someone please let me know in the comments. The song is mostly in Teochew, with a line or four in Mandarin, and an a cool Teochew rap too. Karaoke is good for learning to sing... ain't it? Enjoy "Mang Ue Neung Hai" which means Manga girl.

Teochew Music Video from Khuntien Indonesia: "I'll Be Back To You"

Is this the Teochew Richie Ren? No, but good nonetheless - It's another song from Khuntien Indonesia. This is a sappy romantic ballad - usually not my cup of tea, but I couldn't help but post it because it's just awesome hearing Teochew, from Indonesia, no less. Plus, I can understand the lyrics - always a good sign! This really tells you about how many Teochew people there must be in Pontianak. Another reason to visit!

Khuntien (Pontianak)

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Khuntien (Kungdiang) is the local Teochew name for the Indonesian city of Pontianak which is located on Borneo (Kalimantan is the Indonesian part). From meeting Gaginangers in the past, I've learned that the city's Chinese population is predominately Teochew, with a Hakka presence as well. Apparently all Chinese in Khuntien speak Teochew, even some non-Chinese. The Teochew accent there is slightly different from what I'm used to, for example some words actually have -n endings (which is not typical in other Teochew dialects). Also, the vocabulary probably takes from Indonesian as well. In any case, it would be great to visit one day. Here are some songs from an artist who wrote some folk songs in Teochew. I wonder who the original artist is and where the original artist is now? I would love to learn the songs and give them a more modern/poppy/emo twist. Enjoy!