The wide vocal range, precise vocal control, and the charm of Jingyun Dagu were all demonstrated perfectly! Upon careful consideration, this was not merely singing; it was an imitation, closely mimicking the famous Jingyun Dagu master Mu Da Shi.
Having completed the pieces on the same subject, Qi Shejiang had now sung both the “Zi Di Shu” and Jingyun Dagu version. After listening to Qi Shejiang perform Jingyun Dagu, no one would dare to doubt his “Zi Di Shu” was off-key. The group of actors had a sudden image of a herd of alpacas racing by in their minds. “What the heck!” “Did he grow up on Dagu??” “Who said he was just a pretty face?!” If he were just a pretty face, they might as well find a hole to hide in! As cross-talk performers, they had all studied various forms of arts, especially since Dagu was widely spread. They could now completely confirm that Qi Shejiang had absolutely not sung off-key! The Mu school Dagu was quite authentic!
Qi Shejiang, with his foundation in Peking Opera and skills in “Zi Di Shu,” learned many drum songs with ease, particularly Jingyun Dagu. Moreover, he would never mix styles; what he learned was always as it was. After mastering Jingyun Dagu, he also imitated Meihua Dagu, Jingdong Dagu, Qinshi, and more.
At this moment, Qi Shejiang was communicating his cross-talk foundation with Zeng and Meng. Unlike singing “Zi Di Shu,” where one emphasizes lyrical delivery, as a cross-talk performer, he focused on imitation, deliberately mimicking various renowned masters, achieving quite a vivid portrayal.
Since he started learning cross-talk, Qi Shejiang’s teacher had been his mentor in comedic timing. Later, when troubles arose, leading to his family’s demise, he spent a long time without a fixed partner and was left “performing solo,” switching between different performers. He could bring laughter and joy, mastering all aspects of humor and song.
These difficult days honed Qi Shejiang’s abilities. From Meng Jingyuan’s perspective, he felt Qi Shejiang was worthy of the “overseas hidden gem” title he had learned. His poise and habits closely resembled those of the older masters, contrasting sharply with his youthful and attractive appearance.
Zeng Wenzhi said, “If you hadn’t come with an agent, I would truly want to invite you to join my group!”
