Chongqing - In an innovative approach to legal education, the Chongqing Prison Administration has released a rap music video titled "Chongqing Prison 2025 Cypher", which has quickly gone viral online.
The project, spearheaded by the Chongqing Yuxi Prison and featuring contributions from six local prisons, aims to use the power of music to spread awareness about the importance of abiding by the law.
The leading creators and cast of the rap "Chongqing Prison 2025 Cypher." (Photo/Chongqing Yuxi Prison)
The lyrics of the rap, written by Yuxi Prison officer Ao Yihang, deliver a powerful message, "Life is like a movie—don't play the villain. Don't try, don't try, or you might end up with silver handcuffs. Earn money correctly, avoid scams and illegal schemes, and avoid pitfalls like pig-butchering and telecom fraud." The song's hard-hitting verses and catchy rhythm have resonated with audiences, earning it the title "China's most hardcore legal rap."
Ao explained that the idea stemmed from a desire to connect with younger audiences through a medium they enjoy. Rap is popular among young people because of its rhythm and relatability. We wanted to use it to promote legal awareness while showcasing the positive image of prison officers and their contributions to social stability. "
The production process was no small feat. The lyrics underwent 17 revisions to ensure they were legally accurate and engaging. Ao shared that one line, "OK, brother, have dreams, ditch illusions, start on a slope, don't rush to fifth gear," was initially more straightforward but later reworked to use a car metaphor to emphasize the importance of taking life step by step.
The rap features six prison officers as lead vocalists, including Zhao Jiuwen, a young officer from Chongqing Yuxi Prison. Zhao, who studied Chinese language and literature in college, initially planned to become a teacher but joined the prison service after passing the civil service exam. A music enthusiast skilled in playing the ukulele and beatboxing, Zhao was a natural fit for the project. He practiced relentlessly, even muttering lyrics during walks with friends and family, much to their confusion.
The music video was filmed in a single night at a prison parking lot. The officers performed under flashing police lights. The final product, which took just over a week to shoot but months to prepare, has garnered widespread acclaim.
The recording scene of the rap, "Chongqing Prison 2025 Cypher." (Photo/Chongqing Yuxi Prison)
The recording scene of the rap, "Chongqing Prison 2025 Cypher." (Photo/Chongqing Yuxi Prison)
Since its release, the video has amassed over 155,000 likes on Douyin (China's version of TikTok) and trended in the top three on Chongqing's local charts for three consecutive days, even reaching sixth place on the national chart.
Netizens and professional musicians alike have praised the project. One music producer commented, "This 'Chongqing Prison Cypher' delivers a powerful, hardcore message. But it’s important to remember that this strength is meant to protect us. I believe the Chinese people deeply appreciate this sense of security."
Tang Xiaohai, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee of Chongqing Yuxi Prison, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. "Prison legal education is crucial for showcasing the rule of law and promoting social harmony. Moving forward, we will continue to innovate with short videos, microfilms, and music to spread legal awareness and foster a society that respects, learns, abides by, and uses the law."