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PHNOM PENH (REUTERS) - With US-Cambodian relations at a low and Chinese influence growing, Washington is trying a new way to win hearts and minds: sponsoring a well-known Cambodian musician to sing positive songs about America.
"When there is tension, countries seek ways to ease it so arts and culture can help," said 37-year-old Yorn Young, who launched his "Lovin' USA" album in Phnom Penh on Tuesday (March 6). He was not worried if people thought it was propaganda, he added.
Yorn Young told Reuters he was getting over US$10,000 (S$13,144) from the United States for a concert on March 17 in Kampong Thom province, north of the capital. More concerts could follow if it is a success.
Diplomatic ties between the United States and Cambodia have worsened during a crackdown on opponents of authoritarian leader Hun Sen, who has ruled the South-east Asian country for 33 years and made it one of China's closest regional allies.
US turns to music in bid to woo Cambodians
Cuts in art programs unless it is full on propaganda.
"When there is tension, countries seek ways to ease it so arts and culture can help," said 37-year-old Yorn Young, who launched his "Lovin' USA" album in Phnom Penh on Tuesday (March 6). He was not worried if people thought it was propaganda, he added.
Yorn Young told Reuters he was getting over US$10,000 (S$13,144) from the United States for a concert on March 17 in Kampong Thom province, north of the capital. More concerts could follow if it is a success.
Diplomatic ties between the United States and Cambodia have worsened during a crackdown on opponents of authoritarian leader Hun Sen, who has ruled the South-east Asian country for 33 years and made it one of China's closest regional allies.
US turns to music in bid to woo Cambodians
Cuts in art programs unless it is full on propaganda.
