Bagedai

Bagedai is a vibrant band hailing from Ximeng, one of the most remote counties in China and the homeland of the Wa ethnic group. Known for their unique blend of traditional Wa music with big band rock and reggae vibes, Bagedai features five female lead singers supported by some of the most experienced Wa musicians. Their music fuses Wa chants and ancient songs with contemporary instruments like lutes, flutes, and traditional percussion, creating an uplifting and joyful sound often described as "Yunnan reggae." Their debut self-titled album, released in early 2024, was impressively recorded in a single day but represents years of dedicated effort to reinvent and popularize Wa music beyond their local region.

Bagedai’s songs often explore themes rooted in Wa culture and social stories, like "Nan Ai Er," which conveys deep emotional narratives framed within their signature reggae-rock style. Signed to Sea of Wood Records, a label focused on underrepresented artists from diverse ethnic backgrounds, Bagedai is rapidly gaining attention for their fresh take on traditional music, blending heritage and modernity in a captivating way. If you're into rich cultural vibes mixed with reggae rhythms, Bagedai offers a unique and joyous listening experience.