Writer
Iron Mic, probably the longest-running freestyle rap battle in the world, represents another storyline of rap’s development in China. It has hosted hundreds, if not thousands, of rappers since forming in 2002, helping an entire generation to hone and present their rap skills. It has created countless classic national finales and dramas that are still talked about by hip hop lovers, including Wuhan OG Big Dog and Bejing’s battle king Nasty Ray meeting in the national championship three years in a row; 2010 champion Max from Xinjiang battling Dawei from Beijing, who was still a high school student at the time; and the beef between MC Webber (as a judge) and new-blood contestant MC Bei in 2013. In the VICE documentary, Iron Mic founder Dana “Showtyme” Burton provides commentary as he watches footage of past competitions. Numerous rappers from 13 cities — many of whom are nationally famous now — also share how they feel about the fast-developing Chinese hip hop scene of recent years.
