FM Cinema
JJ Lin And Anderson .Paak’s New Collaboration “In The Joy” Is Featured In East West Bank’s Upcoming Documentary “The Bridge”
Get ready to witness an epic collaboration between Mandopop sensation JJ Lin and Afro-Korean musician Anderson .Paak! These two musical prodigies have teamed up for the first time to produce a sensational song, “In The Joy,” for the upcoming East West Bank documentary film “The Bridge.” This powerful track celebrates life’s joys, promotes unity, and fosters understanding. What better way to kick off Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in May?
East West Bank’s Role In Empowering The Asian-Pacific American Community
Step right up and get ready to be transported on a cinematic journey unlike any other! Evan Jackson Leong, the brilliant director behind “The Bridge,” takes you on a captivating exploration of the Asian-Pacific American Community’s rich history spanning five decades. This extraordinary documentary shines a light on the pivotal role of East West Bank, empowering countless generations of APA businesses and visionaries.
Prepare to have your mind blown as you witness a thought-provoking perspective on the Asian American experience, conveyed through the unique lens of a bank founded in 1973 to serve this community. “The Bridge” is more than just a film; it’s a tribute to the triumphs and struggles of an entire generation, a testament to the indomitable human spirit that continues to thrive despite adversity.
As one of the largest mainstream commercial banks in the country, East West Bank has expanded its reach while maintaining a solid commitment to building bridges across communities, fostering cross-border and cross-cultural understanding, and building meaningful relationships.
Executives and board members of East West Bank rang the Nasdaq opening bell in New York in February 2019 to mark the company’s 20th anniversary of going public. Credit: East West Bank
Celebrating The Achievements Of The APA Community
As the audience watches the film, they will witness the remarkable achievements of the Asian-Pacific American (APA) community. These achievements are highlighted through various anecdotes shared by Dominic Ng, the Chairman and CEO of East West Bank, who highlights the collective successes of the APA community.
Furthermore, the film includes interviews with several notable personalities, including Michelle Yeoh, an Oscar Award-winning actress; Andrew and Peggy Cherng, the CEO and Co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group; and Janet Yang, the President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, along with other prominent individuals. These interviews provide insights into the experiences, struggles, and victories of influential individuals in the APA community, adding depth and context to the film.
“The Asian Pacific American community has been able to make tremendous strides in business, education, entertainment, the arts, and more in large part due to East West Bank’s support and financial commitment to this community,” said Leong, known for his films such as “Linsanity” and “Snakehead.” “While we’ve come so far, there is still more work to be done and some of those same challenges to overcome today.”
Confronting Challenges And Building Bridges With Film And Song
The emphasis on unity and understanding in both the film and the song aims to celebrate the incredible efforts of Asian-Pacific Americans in society. However, it also confronts the bitter truth that challenges such as prejudice and discrimination still exist. “Now more than ever, Asian Pacific Americans are empowered to make a positive impact as valued members of our society, leading to greater representation and contributions across industries,” Ng said.
The East West Bank has been an integral part of bridging the gap between the East and West financially and culturally. To celebrate this remarkable achievement, the bank has come up with a unique approach to showcasing its story through film and song, offering a meaningful way to connect with the creative community. This initiative celebrates the bank’s heritage and progress in the United States.
In addition, it allows younger generations to experience the joy, promise, and hope of a brighter future. East West Bank CEO Dominic Ng is confident that this creative initiative will contribute significantly to preserving cultural heritage and bridging the gap between generations. By showcasing its journey through music and film, the bank aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of its heritage and culture among people of all ages and backgrounds.
Listen to “In The Joy” below.
Discovering The Multi-Talented Anderson .Paak
Listen up, music lovers! I’ve got some insider information that will blow your mind: the one and only Anderson .Paak, a true musical prodigy, was born and raised in the sunny city of Oxnard, California. Even as a teenager, his talent was unquestionable, as he honed his skills playing drums in his local church band. But that was just the beginning.
With the release of his debut album “Venice” and its jaw-dropping follow-up “Malibu” in 2016, Anderson .Paak emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the industry. And with not one, not two, but a whopping EIGHT Grammy Awards to his name, this multi-talented artist has proven that he’s not just a performer – he’s a top-tier producer, songwriter, and director too.
Trust me; you won’t want to miss a minute of Anderson .Paak’s unparalleled talent and infectious energy!
Anderson .Paak. Credit: Linda Nylind/The Guardian
Anderson .Paak’s “Lockdown”: A Powerful Song Recognized By The President And The Grammy Awards
It’s undeniable that many individuals have suffered mistreatment at the hands of law enforcement, wouldn’t you agree? Now picture this: A rising star in the music industry, who is also an advocate for social justice, writes a song that resonates with millions of people but also receives critical acclaim. That’s exactly what happened with Anderson .Paak, when he penned the lyrics for “Lockdown” after attending a protest against police brutality in Los Angeles.
His raw and emotional performance on the track earned him the coveted Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2020, pushing him further into the spotlight. But the recognition didn’t stop there. “Lockdown” was also featured on several “Best of” lists and even caught former President Barack Obama’s attention, who included it on his annual “Favorite Music” list.
While it’s true that presidents are just as human as the rest of us, knowing that one of them takes a keen interest in your music can be a pretty cool experience. This recognition is a testament to the impact and significance of Anderson .Paak’s music entertains, ignites passion, and provokes thoughtful discussions on vital issues.
Hold on tight because there’s more to the talented Anderson .Paak then meets the eye! He’s not only a Grammy-winning musician with a distinctive and soulful sound that has taken the world by storm, but he’s also a multifaceted artist who wears many hats with panache. It’s no wonder that the acclaimed shoe brand Vans has chosen him as their first-ever Global Music Ambassador!
A Visionary Musician, Director, And Entrepreneur
On top of that, Anderson’s directorial skills are out of this world, as evidenced by his masterful work on Leon Bridges’ “Motorbike” music video. And let’s not forget his unparalleled collaboration with the one and only Bruno Mars. The Silk Sonic duo has set the bar high with their debut single, “Leave The Door Open,” which has amassed an impressive 460 million streams and 350 million official video views!
It’s about time we recognize this dynamic duo with the recognition they deserve. Not only have they masterfully recreated the soulful sounds of the 1970s, but their music lifts listeners’ moods and transports them to a more positive state. It’s truly remarkable how this group has managed to capture the essence of a bygone era and breathe new life into it, creating something that’s both nostalgic and fresh all at once.
Oh, and get this: .Paak has just unveiled his very own record label, APESHT, in partnership with the mighty Universal Music Group (UMG). This man never ceases to amaze us with his unwavering passion and dedication to music. Now he’s using his incredible platform to uplift emerging artists and give them the exposure they deserve. What an absolute icon!
Mandopop Sensation JJ Lin Dominating The Music Industry
Now, let me tell you about JJ Lin, the talented singer-songwriter who took the music industry by storm. With his debut album, “Music Voyager,” JJ made waves and never looked back. He’s been churning out hit after hit for 20 years, making him one of the most in-demand artists in Asia.
JJ Lin. Credit: The Straits Times/TEAM SMG
If you haven’t seen JJ perform live, you’re missing out on the experience of a lifetime! His mesmerizing vocals and limitless range always leave the audience spellbound. Having taken the stage at an incredible 132 tour stops, JJ is no stranger to the limelight. His virtual concerts have garnered over 100 million views, earning him the nickname “The Walking CD” among his devoted fans.
It’s no surprise that with 120 billion streams worldwide on leading music platforms, JJ’s music has captured the hearts of millions. JJ’s talent and charm are irreplaceable, from his electrifying live shows to his chart-topping hits.
And he’s not just a one-person show. JJ has collaborated with big names in the music industry, including Steve Aoki, Anne Marie, and Luis Fonsi, to name a few. Additionally, he has made history by becoming the first Mandopop singer to hold an arena-sized concert in Seattle and sell out two consecutive nights at the New York Barclays Center. Talk about breaking records!
From Music Tours To Entrepreneurship
Imagine the electrifying atmosphere in Hong Kong as JJ wrapped up an exhilarating 6-show marathon, leaving fans clamoring for more. With a well-deserved rest under his belt, JJ is now gearing up for the next leg of his JJ20 World Tour. After finishing his tours in Australia this month, JJ has set his sights on conquering Paris, London, Europe, and other global hotspots. As if that wasn’t enough, JJ’s creative juices are flowing, and he’s hard at crafting a brand-new album. The album, set to be released in April, commemorates his 20th anniversary in the music industry.
Expect nothing but the best from JJ as he thrills fans across the globe with his explosive performances and chart-topping hits.
Moreover, the “If Only” singer is not just a musical icon but also a wise entrepreneur with multiple business ventures under his belt. In addition to his music career, JJ has diversified his portfolio with experiences in fashion, coffee, esports, and art. What’s more, he also actively engages in innovative projects that bridge the gap between the Web2 and Web3 worlds. For instance, he collaborates with local start-up GRAYCRAFT. Furthermore, as a Co-Founder of ARC, a unique app-based community for co-creation and nurturing the next generation of Asian ventures, JJ plays an instrumental role in supporting budding entrepreneurs.
Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn
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