ZHU: Red and Gold

Since his first anonymous track releases in 2014, ZHU has found unbelievable success in the electronic music world. The enigmatic LA producer had initially maintained a sense of mystery because he wanted his listeners to focus on the feelings evoked by the music, rather than his ethnicity or appearance. His blend of relaxed, sultry R&B over warm, thumping house beats has garnered global appeal. This Chinese New Year, Apple Music has invited him to curate a playlist for the holiday. Coming from a Chinese American family, ZHU often reflects on the past. “When I was really young, my family in China was extremely poor and Chinese New Year was the only time people really exchanged gifts or had large meals,” he explains. “All the kids got red envelopes filled with money, new toys, new clothes. I think everyone looked forward to getting presents during this time.” It was a time not only for family gatherings, but for traditions. “I remember my cousins and I going down to the river to set off fireworks. My aunties would prepare special Chinese sticky rice, where they would wrap up meat-filled rice.” “When I think about Chinese New Year, I think about gongs, lion dances and a lot of upbeat festival drumming and tambourines,” ZHU says about the sounds of the festive season. “Music that will bring good fortunes for 2020 is the soundtrack to this Chinese New Year. And I want to wish all my fans good fortune and prosperity for this amazing upcoming Chinese New Year.”